Study reports young boys who regularly play video games ‘have lower depression risk’

Researchers note that this effect was only significant among boys with low physical activity levels, and was not found among girls.

A study suggests boy gamers are less likely to develop depressive symptoms than girls after three years. Picture: Joe Giddens/PA

Video games may not be as harmful as widely perceived, after a study found young boys who regularly game were less likely to have developed depressive symptoms three years later.

Researchers say that gaming may actually have some benefits, particularly during the pandemic with people forced to stay at home in lockdown.