Some new research out recently found that in contrast to what we often hear about gaming, playing video games may help to replenish our energy and boost recovery from work-related stress.
Playing games not only helped with psychological detachment (the ability to mentally switch off from work), but also promoted mastery experiences (i.e., the feeling that you’re learning new things and facing challenges).
An important factor for mastery experiences is whether employees have “obsessive” or “harmonious” passion. Those who reported higher harmonious passion (engaging in a task enjoyably without compulsion) reported a stronger relationship between time spent gaming and the experience of mastery.
Controversial idea maybe, but workplaces could consider getting gaming consoles to help people switch off for a while. I’m pretty sure some tech companies and film companies already do this.
Lucky for me there’s a pinball arcade two mins away from my office in Wellington!
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