As a gamer, there are several stereotypes that you have to constantly deal with.
While some of these stereotypes have faded away, there are still a few that just won’t seem to go away. The truth of the matter is, gaming isn’t just for kids anymore. Many of those who grew-up playing Super Mario Bros. are well into our 30’s and we enjoying gaming as a family and on our own.
It’s a permanent fixture in our culture.
Here are four common myths about gamers that I would like to dispel for you:
1. Gamers Are Lazy
Sigh. This is a classic. Truth of the matter is, you are just as active when watching television, going to a movie, surfing the Internet, or reading a book. And considering how intense many games can be, ‘lazy’ is the last thing I would ever call them…
2. Gamers Are Socially Awkward
Because spending time in front of a monitor means you can’t communicate with people? If you’re into computers and tech stuff, you know exactly what this stereotype is like—and it is applied to gamers, too. Considering that 50% of the population is introverted, this is an easy assumption people make. However, considering the online gaming boom, this stereotype is laughable.
3. Gamers Are Young Males
The Entertainment Software Association’s 2014 video game industry survey stats that 59% of Americans play video games, and:
- 71% are over 18 years old.
- 48% of gamers are female.
My wife falls right into this category, as she’s swept through many games right along with me. 🙂
4. Gamers Who Play Violent Games May Easily Become Violent
This is the most classic myth of them all.
In fact, just the opposite has been found true!
Don’t believe me? Read it yourself.
That being said, I think it is really important to observe the rating system when choosing games for your kids and make sure you’re not consuming video game content that is unhealthy yourself. This is one reason why I’ll personally never play Grand Theft Auto and I don’t like games that I am ‘the bad guy.’
Now, if you don’t mind, let me get back to my latest game crush…
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