Psychologist: Video games can be therapy, not just a waste of time

Playing video games after work is not merely a way to chase dopamine, but can fulfill fundamental human needs, according to psychologist Aistė Diržytė. She posits that the desire to overcome challenges, achieve goals, and feel needed is innate, drawing parallels to evolutionary psychology and the concept of humans being "born to be good."

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We want to play because it is in our nature. We want to be heroes because it is in our essence. The desire to care for others, to win, to achieve goals, to overcome challenges – that is who we are, it is encoded even in our genes.

Diržytė explains that games provide a safe space, a "laboratory of identity," where individuals can experiment with different roles and test solutions without real-world consequences. This exploration can help satisfy basic psychological needs that might be more difficult to meet in everyday life. She cites research suggesting that humans are naturally inclined to cooperate and build meaningful connections, and games can facilitate these aspects.

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Games are like a laboratory of identity. As long as this hobby does not interfere with relationships, sleep, or studies, it can help to relax, develop creativity, strengthen cognitive abilities, and prepare for life.

"We want to play because it is in our nature. We want to be heroes because it is in our essence. The desire to care for others, to win, to achieve goals, to overcome challenges – that is who we are, it is encoded even in our genes," Diržytė stated. She believes that heroism in daily life often manifests in simple acts like caring for family or taking responsibility at work, and games offer a virtual arena for similar pursuits.

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Sometimes situations arise where it is easier to satisfy these needs in virtual reality than in the real world.

If gaming does not interfere with sleep, relationships, or studies, Diržytė argues it can be beneficial. It can aid in relaxation, foster creativity, enhance cognitive abilities, and even prepare individuals for real-life challenges by teaching strategy and building self-esteem. She suggests that games can even serve a "psychodiagnostic or therapeutic function," helping individuals overcome shyness or pursue aspirations they might otherwise deem too risky.

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A person can be anyone in games. Through this laboratory, they can fulfill even their most timid dreams, feel like a strong champion. I think games can even have a psychodiagnostic or therapeutic function.