Fight or Flight

Video games can condition people to respond to stress or danger with a “fight or flight” reaction by immersing them in high-stakes, action-packed environments. These games often involve intense scenarios where players must make quick decisions, either fighting enemies or fleeing from threats, triggering the body’s natural stress response. The constant exposure to these high-tension situations can train the brain to react quickly and instinctively to danger, potentially reinforcing a heightened state of alertness or anxiety. This can impact how people respond to real-world stress, as they may become accustomed to reacting with immediate aggression or avoidance.