Most recent study finds that playing video games actually boosts kids’ IQ

Parents have often warned us that video games are bad for kids, but new research suggests that might not be entirely true. A 2022 study found something surprising—playing video games may actually boost children’s IQ.

The researchers took a careful approach, accounting for factors like genetics and socio-economic background when testing their ideas. They explored how activities like gaming, watching TV, and using social media influenced children’s intelligence.

The results challenge some common beliefs. According to the study, playing video games showed a noticeable link to increased IQ in children, while watching TV and using social media appeared to have no clear impact—good or bad—on intelligence. For many, this finding goes against the idea that gaming is harmful to young minds.

Given how digital media shapes modern childhood, it’s crucial to understand its effects. However, the researchers note that the overall picture is still unclear and remains a topic of debate. Their study, published in Scientific Reports, adds to growing evidence that screen time—specifically from video games—doesn’t necessarily hurt kids’ cognitive abilities.

That said, the findings come with some caveats. The researchers caution that their sample sizes were small, which means there might be other factors they didn’t capture. So, while this study supports the idea that gaming could have cognitive benefits, more research is needed to fully understand the effects.

Still, the thought that gaming might not just be harmless but even beneficial is an exciting one. We already know certain brain games can help with memory, so could video games also make kids smarter? While this study doesn’t offer a final answer, it gives us a fresh perspective to consider.