The Playing Brain. The Impact of Video Games on Cognition and Behavior in Pediatric Age at the Time of Lockdown: A Systematic Review

This systematic review examines the impact of video games on cognition and behavior in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 lockdown. It highlights potential benefits such as improved attention, executive function, and spatial skills from games designed to challenge these areas. However, concerns include excessive gaming leading to attention issues, addictive behaviors, and social withdrawal. The review emphasizes the importance of game type and duration, as prosocial and educational games promote positive outcomes, while violent games may increase aggression. The findings suggest video games can enhance cognitive abilities when balanced and carefully chosen but underline the need for adult supervision and limits to prevent negative effects.

Parents should encourage moderate use of video games, focusing on prosocial and educational titles to boost attention, memory, and problem-solving. Limit gaming time and integrate it with physical and social activities to avoid risks like addiction or social withdrawal. During prolonged indoor periods, such as lockdowns, video games can provide cognitive stimulation but must be balanced with diverse non-digital activities for holistic development.