Virtual world Anxiety


The instant gratification and unpredictability of rewards in video gaming and social media can indeed contribute to heightened anxiety and insecurity, especially among younger generations. Here are a few key points on how these platforms could impact younger generations:

  1. Instant Rewards and Failures: In both gaming and social media, the outcomes of our actions are immediate and often unpredictable. This can create a cycle of short-term highs and lows, making it difficult to plan and strategize for long-term goals.
  2. External Validation: Success or failure in these virtual worlds is often determined by external factors—game coders or social media followers—rather than our own efforts. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and anxiety.
  3. Impact on Long-Term Planning: The focus on immediate rewards can undermine our ability to plan and work towards long-term goals, as the constant need for instant validation can distract from more meaningful pursuits.
  4. Insecurity and Anxiety: The high exposure to failure and the pressure to succeed in these virtual environments can lead to increased anxiety and insecurity, affecting mental health and well-being.

How bad is this going to affect the younger generation on their path to success?