De Facto Leaders Do video games improve cognitive performance?
In 2022, a study was published in JAMA Network Open with a compelling title: “Video gaming may be associated with better cognitive performance in children.” You may read the article here: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/video-gaming-may-be-associated-better-cognitive-performance-children
This resulted in a number of social media influencers spreading the word about the “benefits” of playing video games. For up to 3 hours a day nonetheless.
**After I published this podcast episode, this study was retracted and replaced due to concerns with the original analysis. I have not edited the original episode, but am posting the information about the retraction here: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2803642
Please keep this retraction in mind as you listen to my analysis, as many of my concerns about the interpretation of this study are addressed in the retraction.
What got lost in translation was the subheadline and nuances of the findings, which were explained quite transparently by the researchers, and were readily available to anyone who clicked through and read the full news release.
That’s why in episode 105 of the “De Facto Leaders” podcast, I explained the details outlined in the news release; including the details that were left out of the headlines.
I also share my thoughts on what these results mean for educators, therapists, and parents when it comes to the harm and potential benefits of gaming.
The full news release to the ABCD study can be found here. Link here: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/video-gaming-may-be-associated-better-cognitive-performance-children
In this episode, I mentioned my Executive Functions Implementation guide that shares how school therapists can lead their IEP teams in providing mental health, behavioral, and social skills support for K-12 kids. You can download this free resource here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/efschools
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