Video games have been on the market for the last 35 years. They are a unique form of entertainment because they encourage players to be part of the characters in the game. This, however, has both positive and negative effects on the player. Several studies have been published exploring the effects of video games on heart rate.
In this article, I have tried to summarize the research that has been done on the effects of video games on people’s heart rates.
In a study conducted by the Stockholm University Institute for Stress Research, playing violent video games was found to affect heart rate variability not only during gameplay, but also when sleeping at night. A group of boys, ages 13 to 15, were asked to play two different games at night, one focused on aggression while the other had non-violent traits.
Fifteen children were exposed to violent video games, playing no less than three hours a day. The remaining fifteen were asked to play nonviolent cartoon games for no more than one hour per day. The children played the games at home on two nights.
Heart rates were observed during the game and also while they slept. The study seems to show that the effects of gaming don’t stop when you turn off the system, but instead have an ongoing psychological impact without the player realizing it.
While the children slept later that night, the children who were exposed to very violent games had faster heart rates compared to the night after playing nonviolent games. Children who were exposed to violent games also reported poor sleep quality the night after playing an aggressive game. They also reported increased feelings of sadness. Violent gaming seems to have caused more nervousness and stress at bedtime.
This suggests that frequent exposure to violent computer games not only increases stress and aggressive behavior, but also increases antisocial behaviors. Other studies have also indicated that violent video games can provoke an adrenaline response. In other words, they can affect blood pressure, breathing rate, and pain tolerance.
Violent video games generally tend to be more exciting and haunting than their more peaceful counterparts. As a result, you will likely see your heart rate increase. It could also be the increased level of arousal that is causing increased anxiety. However, not everyone can be affected by exposure to violent computer games, but most people are.
