https://digitalsmagzine.com/gaming/the-rise-of-pubg-mobile-advantages-and-disadvantages/ PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG), a popular online multiplayer game, has gained significant attention in recent years. While gaming can be an enjoyable recreational activity, excessive and uncontrolled gaming, especially in the case of PUBG, can pose various dangers to one’s health. This article explores the specific risks and dangers that PUBG presents to physical and mental well-being.
Sedentary Lifestyle and Physical Inactivity:
PUBG’s addictive gameplay often leads to long hours of sitting or remaining stationary. This sedentary lifestyle contributes to physical inactivity, which is associated with increased risks of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and musculoskeletal problems. Lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain, muscle weakness, poor cardiovascular health, and a decline in overall physical fitness.
Impact on Vision:
Constant exposure to the bright screens used in PUBG can strain the eyes and potentially lead to vision problems. Prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain, dry eyes, eye fatigue, and increased sensitivity to light. Additionally, excessive gaming can disrupt normal sleep patterns, leading to further eye-related issues.
Sleep Disturbances:
Engaging in late-night gaming sessions can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle and lead to sleep disturbances. The excitement and stimulation from playing PUBG can make it difficult to wind down and fall asleep, resulting in insufficient sleep and poor sleep quality. Sleep deprivation can have detrimental effects on cognitive function, mood regulation, immune system function, and overall health.
Mental Health Concerns:
PUBG’s intense and competitive nature can have negative impacts on mental health. Excessive gaming can contribute to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The addictive qualities of the game can lead to withdrawal symptoms, mood swings, and difficulty in controlling impulses. It can also affect social interactions and relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Increased Risk of Gaming Addiction:
PUBG has been associated with gaming addiction, where individuals develop an uncontrollable dependency on the game. Gaming addiction can lead to neglect of responsibilities, social withdrawal, academic or work problems, and financial difficulties. It can also exacerbate existing mental health conditions and hinder personal growth and development.
Social and Emotional Impact:
While PUBG is a multiplayer game that allows interaction with other players, excessive gaming can have negative social and emotional impacts. Excessive time spent gaming may lead to reduced face-to-face interactions, strained relationships with family and friends, and decreased social skills. It can also contribute to a sense of disconnection from the real world and hinder the development of essential social and emotional abilities.
Impact on Academic or Professional Performance:
Excessive gaming, especially during crucial periods of study or work, can significantly impact academic and professional performance. Spending excessive time playing PUBG can lead to a decline in productivity, decreased focus, poor time management, and neglect of important responsibilities. This can result in lower grades, missed deadlines, and potential career setbacks.
Impaired Cognitive Function:
Excessive and prolonged gaming sessions in PUBG can have a negative impact on cognitive function. Spending extended periods in a virtual world may lead to reduced engagement in activities that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. It can hinder cognitive development and limit opportunities for learning and intellectual growth.
Increased Aggression and Hostility:
PUBG’s competitive nature and intense gameplay can evoke strong emotions, including aggression and hostility. The high-stress environment, coupled with the adrenaline rush experienced during gameplay, may result in increased levels of aggression both in the virtual world and real-life interactions. This can have negative consequences for personal relationships and overall social well-being.
Neglect of Basic Needs:
Addiction to PUBG can lead individuals to neglect their basic needs, such as eating, drinking, and personal hygiene. The focus on the game can overshadow the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, leading to irregular eating habits, dehydration, and inadequate self-care. Neglecting these fundamental needs can have adverse effects on physical health and overall well-being.
Risk of Gaming-Related Injuries:
Intense gaming sessions in PUBG can increase the risk of developing gaming-related injuries. Continuously gripping controllers or maintaining a fixed position for extended periods can lead to repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis. These injuries can cause pain, discomfort, and long-term impairments if not addressed and managed properly.
Distorted Perception of Reality:
Excessive immersion in PUBG’s virtual world can blur the line between the game and reality. This can lead to a distorted perception of real-life situations, causing individuals to prioritize the game over real-world responsibilities, relationships, and goals. The inability to differentiate between the virtual and physical world can have negative consequences on personal development and functioning in society.
Increased Risk of Accidents:
When engrossed in PUBG, individuals may become less attentive to their surroundings, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Engaging in the game while walking, crossing roads, or performing other activities can lead to accidents and potential harm to oneself and others. It is important to maintain awareness of one’s surroundings and prioritize safety over gameplay.
Financial Implications:
PUBG offers in-game purchases and microtransactions, which can lead to financial strain for some individuals. The urge to acquire virtual items or stay competitive in the game can result in excessive spending, leading to financial difficulties and even debt. These financial implications can cause stress, anxiety, and long-term financial instability.
While PUBG can provide entertainment and enjoyment, it is essential to recognize and address the potential dangers it poses to health. From sedentary lifestyle and physical inactivity to the risks of gaming addiction, sleep disturbances, and negative impacts on mental well-being, PUBG requires moderation and responsible use. Individuals should be aware of their gaming habits, set boundaries, and prioritize their physical and mental well-being to avoid the detrimental effects associated with excessive gaming.
