ADHD, Video Games, and Brain Training: Improving Focus
Many skeptics question the validity of an ADD/ADHD diagnosis because often these individuals are capable of demonstrating almost obsessive focus in one or two activities. With children, and some adults, the most common activity that can draw attention from an ADHD individual involves video and computer games. Why?
Research from NASA and neurological specialists suggests that there may be a natural dopamine reward system in the brain that creates a positive sensation to video gaming. It is sort of like the pleasure sensation that rewards chocolate consumers, in a broad sense. Video games also provide immediate feedback.
Think about it for a moment: kids in school are encouraged to work hard, turn in assignments, study and take tests, but the reward for their efforts isn't always instant. Report cards are handed out two to four times a year, depending on the curriculum, and those kids who are not doing well may not be receiving any reward despite their efforts.
In contrast, video games have short-term goals (e.g. beat the level, get the points) as well as long-term goals (e.g. beat the game) with a variety of positive rewards along the way. With many games, the levels are relatively short and this provides for a fast reward as the individual keeps playing. Now research suggests that video gaming may be used to help train ADD and ADHD sufferers to have increased and improved attention, focus, and control. This research stems from NASA research for astronauts on long trips.
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Now, playing Mario Kart may not make me smarter but I will say that playing video games and in particular Bejeweled, has allowed me to clear my mind and focus solely on the game for at least that minute. My self diagnosed ADD is consuming at times. Playing these games seems to allow me to get my mind back some days!
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