A recent study by researchers at the Universit de Montral and published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry reveals that certain video games can do more harm than good. According to the study, shooter games were found to cause damage to the hippocampus of the brain and video gamers who were examined as part of the research, had less grey matter than their counterparts who did not play these games.

In an article in Psychology Today, Samantha Smithstein, clinical and forensic psychologist explains that for young people who struggle with social skills or lack the skills to play team sports, video games entertain and level the playing field. Young people with little athletic interest or ability have an opportunity to compete in a different way and to form friendships with like-minded gamers, she says.

But here is a word of caution -- recent surveys have shown that children, especially teenagers spend an average of almost an hour every day on video games, with some being engaged up to three hours. This can interfere with sleep, playing outdoors and studies.

"If a young person spends most non-school hours on the computer or hand-held device or phone, is falling behind with assignments, has worsening grades, is overtired, lying about frequency of use of electronic media, irritable when not using electronic media and choosing these activities overseeing friends, then the child has a problem and needs help

Is our fear of the adverse effects of computer and video games real? There is research pointing to both the positive and negative effects of gaming. While some games are non-threatening and can improve concentration and creative skills, violent, dark games may foster an appetite for violence and destructive behavior. Many of the concerns that parents may have about the adverse effects of television are also true for video games -- in terms of violence, minimal physical activity, sedentary lifestyle and so on. In fact, the 'it will melt your brain' theory may hold some truth as recent research has shown.

So, to put it in perspective, we list out the various effects of video games on children.

Positive effects of video games-

1.Can improve focus in children with a short attention span

2 .Develops better eye-hand coordination

3. Can boost imagination and sometimes be educational

4.Develops the spirit of healthy competition

Negative effects of video games-

1.May promote violent behavior

2.Can cause some damage to the brain

3.Hampers social interaction with the outside world

4.Physical inactivity can lead to health problems