Influence of Computer Games on the Health and Quality of Students Academic Performance

Abstract

S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Republic of Kazakhstan The term "computer addiction" appeared in the 90s of the last century. Therefore, the problem of the impact of computer games on the health and academic performance of the students is important. Aim:The objective of this study was to assess the duration of one’s stay in the virtual world and the nature of its influence on the academic progress of the medical students. Our pilot study was conducted by way of an anonymous survey among students studying at a medical university. We have been identified such negative consequences of computer games - sleeplessness, redness of eyes, loss of appetite, lethargy, disorientation, irritation, abnormal social behavior. Тhe presence and degree of expression of these effects depends on the duration of the game play. Of those surveyed, only 10% said they play computer games only from time to time. While 20 students who played 10 hours a day complained of a feeling of pressure in the eyes, watery eyes, mild disorientation in time, frequent headaches, back pain and memory problems. 15 students who played computer games for more than 16 hours a day had a decrease in visual acuity, dry mucous membranes of the eyes, memory problems, back pain in the elbow brushes, body aches, loss of appetite, disorientation in time and space, insomnia, serious problems with memory and more. All students devote the game for more than 6 hours a day, revealed problems with academic performance. Some students (10%) set academic arrears for previous years of study. The majority of respondents (60%) play computer games 6 or more hours a day. Consequently, this situation indicates the need for educational work about the dangers of long-term stay in the world of computer games.