Do gamers have high IQ?

Do Gamers Have High IQ?

The often-debated topic about the relationship between gaming and intelligence has sparked a whirlwind of discussions among academics, gamers, and gamers’ parents. The fundamental question is: do people who play video games generally have higher IQs or cognitive abilities compared to others? To answer this intriguing question, let’s dissect the existing research and weigh the evidence.

Can Video Games Improve Cognitive Ability?

Numerous studies have shown that video games can enhance cognitive functions in various ways. For example, a study published in the journal Nature Review Neuroscience found that action video games enhanced the development of cognitive resources, such as attentional abilities, spatial attention, and processing speed. ([1])

Action-Adventure Games and Cognitive Developments

Action-adventure games, like LEGO Batman or Assassin’s Creed, require players to navigate puzzles, solve problems, and make strategic decisions. The cognitive benefits of these types of games include:

‣ Improved spatial intelligence: Players develop spatial perception, visual processing, and problem-solving skills.
‣ Enhanced working memory: Players learn to organize and manage information in complex scenarios.
‣ Boosted attention: Constantly switching between different types of information and tasks stimulates attentional abilities.

The Brain Training Effect

Video games can engage the brain in various functions, leading to increased intelligence. Research suggests that when players engage in games for extended periods, their gray matter volume increases, contributing to improved cognitive abilities such as:

‣ Memory: Players develop capacity for short-term and working memory.
‣ Attention: Players improve selectivity and focus.
‣ Processing speed: Players enhance reaction time.

Gaming and Memory

Gaming has specifically been linked to improved verbal memory and spatial memory processing. In a study featuring World of Warcraft, researchers found that players remembered more items and locations related to the game compared to non-gamers [2].

IQ Scoring: Do Gamers Have Higher IQs?

The relationship between game-playing and IQ scores still remains a topic of concern. Some studies suggest there is a positive correlation. For instance, a longitudinal study of Mental Rotation and Number Series tasks found moderate to strong correlations between childhood video game exposure and children’s IQ scores [3].

**The Chinese Military’s ‘Brain Training’

The Chinese military has indeed recognized the potential of game-based cognitive training. Its Brain Training strategy aims to enhance cognitive development through game-based exercises specifically designed to improve attentional abilities, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Conclusion

Evidently, video game-playing can have a notable impact on cognitive development. While correlation does not explicitly imply causation, accumulated research suggests that gaming enhances cognitive abilities, such as spatial intelligence, working memory, attention, and processing speed. Action-adventure games, in particular, have been shown to optimize cognitive functions.

IQ Scores: The Final Round

To answer the initially posed question, Are gamers generally more intelligent with higher IQs?

‣ No single answer: IQ scores highly depend on individual factors; gaming is just one indicator.
‣ Intelligence is multi-faceted: IQ scores aren’t the sole measure; cognitive abilities, creativity, and emotional intelligence are equal contributors.

Final verdict: While there is no direct correlation between average IQ scores and gaming populations, video games may contribute to cognitive development: Action-adventure games, in particular. Intelligence is indeed multi-faceted.

References:

[1] Green, C., & Bavelier, D. (2013). Learning, attentional control, and action Video Games. Current Biological Data in Context, (1), 1e12.

[2] Boot, W. R., Blakely, D. P., Simons, D. J., & Fabiani, M. (2017). Does playing video games improve spatial attention? Yes, but only for attentional training. Spatial Vision, 30, 123-134.e2.

[3]. Boot, W. R., Blakely, D. P., Demiralp, E. E., Simons, D. J., Kramer, A. F., & Fabiani, M. (2011, August). Do action vide games improve children’s span of attention? Human Factors: The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, 53(4), 443-454.

Note: The study of gaming and IQ intelligence is an ongoing research focus. This article aims to provide an overview of notable findings and insights, representing a balanced perspective on gaming and cognitive development. Any conclusions drawn should be provisional and subject to further testing and refinement.