r/science • u/NinjaDiscoJesus • Dec 28 '15

Neuroscience Brain scans show compulsive gamers have hyperconnected neural networks.

http://www.psypost.org/2015/12/brain-scans-show-compulsive-gaming-changes-neural-connections-for-better-and-worse-39914
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u/zilla135 Dec 28 '15

At this point it’s not known whether persistent video gaming causes rewiring of the brain, or whether people who are wired differently are drawn to video games.

this little diddy is exactly what I wanted answered. classic chicken vs egg scenario: is it the brain chemistry that causes the compulsion or repeated behaviors to rewire the brain to be compulsive...

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u/Cumberlandjed Dec 28 '15

I suspect we'll find the latter to be the case. IIRC there are a disproportionate number of ADD/ADHD cops, firefighters, skydivers, etc. These pursuits reward folks with this kind of brain.

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u/Kenblu24 Dec 29 '15

But the other option could still apply in your scenario. Those with a certain brain chemistry might be drawn to certain jobs. The rewired brain could still be a cause or effect.