Jogadores de jogos eletrônicos (gamers): análise da cognição e do sistema nervoso auditivo central em jovens adultos

Abstract

Electronic games provide an environment rich in auditory stimuli, which can function as long-term auditory training. The objective of this study is to examine and compare the auditory, cognitive, and neurophysiological function of the central auditory nervous system among individuals who play electronic games with reference values, analyzing the potential benefits they may have on Central Auditory Processing (CAP). To achieve this, a battery of Central Auditory Processing (CAP) tests, neuropsychological evaluations, and Long Latency Auditory Evoked Potentials (LLAEP) were conducted. Ten young adults aged 18 to 29 years, with a mean age of 23.3 years, participated in the study (8 males; 2 females). To be eligible for the research, all individuals had to present normal audiometry, immittance, and Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) - click. Additionally, they should have a routine of playing electronic games for at least 6 hours per week.As results, the Digits Dichotic Test, Frequency and Duration Pattern Test, Gap In Noise, and Masking Level Difference tests all showed performance above reference values. Moreover, the neurophysiological exogenous potentials of the LLAEP were within normal limits, but a significant absence was noted in the search for the P300 wave, along with a performance below expectations in the Neupsilin test.In conclusion, the results indicate a significant change in the central auditory processing of gamers, as evidenced by a substantial improvement in performance on the cognitive auditory tests conducted.