Does playing video games have the same effect on the brain as watching television?

I'm not sure the details, but I know that watching television puts people minds in a very passive and receptive state. Since video games require interaction, does this change this?

Playing video games uses hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and both short-term and long-term memory.

There were studies done a long time back, when the video games were things like Pac-Man, that found that having oldsters play the video games reduced symptoms of senility.

i believe it does, on the inside cover of most (if not all now) they have a warning that it may cause damage to the body.

http://mentalhealth.about.com/cs/familyresources/a/videojap.htm

http://www.microsoft.com/games/home/photosensitive_warning.aspx

both are great resources. but in a child's defense it is all about playing WAY TO MUCH. video games CAN actualy be good in small quantities.

no.

Video games make your brain stronger not weaker, unless you watch discovery channel, then that makes your mind even stronger.

just make sure you look away everynow and then you know focus back into the real world so you dont fry your eyes.

It does. You have answered your own question. But a good television programme also invites the viewer to be interactive, too, remember.

I don't think so. Games now days are so challenging to the brain that it doesn't compare to the vegetative state of watching television. The only problem with most games is there is no physical activity so its not good for long periods, but Nintendo Wii came along to save the day. Now, you can play games with physical challenge and mental challenge. What more could you ask for? If someone is hassling you about games take into consideration they probably never played them in their life so how can they make a rash judgment. Just don't devote your life to any screen, T.V. or game. Get out in life and experience the real thing.