The Link Between Playing Video Games and Positive Youth Outcomes

Playing video games continues to be popular among youth. Although many studies have examined the impact of video games on negative outcomes, such as aggression and addiction, fewer studies have investigated potential positive outcomes. However, recent studies are addressing this imbalance. In this article, we review some of this research, specifically studies indicating a link between playing video games and enhanced well-being, problem-solving skills, intergroup relations, and physical activity. In addition, we discuss how self-determination theory may provide an underlying theoretical framework linking these domains of positive effects. We also address implications for ongoing research that furthers our knowledge of how video games affect youth development, including longitudinal studies that examine video game play and adjustment from childhood to young adulthood.