The Daily Turn On! Guitar Hero ... Addiction or Hobby?

Is guitar hero good for my son? I am absolutely amazed when watching my son play this interactive game. For those of you who have never seen it in action, a guitar with various colored buttons is the tool and the player watches and listens to the song being played by the band on the screen. When he first started playing, my son would get frustrated and simply give up. But now, I am so impressed! "Mom, want to watch me challenge Slash?" Ummm, okay. He then gives Slash a run for his money. I watch in awe as I witness the mental and physical coordination necessary for this game. I can't help but wonder if this game really will help him to develop the skills required to be a musician in the future. I must say that I really don't like many of the songs, but then again when Barracuda by Heart starts to play, well, I just have to dance around and watch my son challenge the guitarist on the screen!

Actually, it may really be possible that this addiction, or hobby--still debating--is actually good for him. Studies suggest that playing video games can provide positive stimulation for the brain. According to a March 2007 study conducted by the University of Rochester, a group of college-aged people who played 30 hours of video games showed a marked increase in their ability to "track" specific objects in a busy scene, focus on multiple objects at the same time and process fast-changing visual information. Video games definitely improve eye-hand coordination as well. A study conducted by researchers at Iowa State University in August 2003 measured the motor skills, reaction time and hand-eye coordination of 33 doctors. Their research uncovered some interesting information: Doctors who habitually played video games made 37 percent fewer mistakes and performed tasks 27 percent faster during surgery than non-gaming doctors.

Scientists and game designers have begun to work in tandem to develop games that enhance specific neurological functions. As a matter of fact, S.M.A.R.T. BrainGames, a game develop to treat ADHD, utilizes a biofeedback sensory mechanism that measures brain activity during the game. The game measures the player's performance based on the player's brain wave activity. In theory, the game helps the brain waves to settle into a more "normal" pattern. Biofeedback technology is used to reduce excitement and stress, two factors that inhibit the brain's ability to focus and react quickly.

So ... Let's Rock & Roll!