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Gaming and ESports: The psychological, social and economic rewards in the growing medium

Newhouse Impact: Showcasing the research and creative activity of the faculty and students at the Newhouse School
Newhouse School

Why do we play video games? Just a fun distraction or might they do more for us psychologically and help shape our culture? Gaming has grown to a multi-billion-dollar industry, and as more people across all ages play, the activity provides shared experience and community. As a significant medium in people's lives, gaming can also be useful in strategic communications.

On this episode of Newhouse Impact, two researchers who look into the role gaming has in society, the economy and public relations. Nick Bowman, Professor of Communications, tells us gaming can have positive psychological effects and has a growing place in media. Joshua Foust, Assistant Professor of Public Relations, studies the military's use of gaming to improve image. They also discuss the growing popularity of E-Sports, the gaming economy and job opportunities.

Research and guest scheduling for Newhouse Impact by Maggie DiPatri; the theme music was created by Kat Kollins.

Chris Bolt, Ed.D. has proudly been covering the Central New York community and mentoring students for more than 30 years. His career in public media started as a student volunteer, then as a reporter/producer. He has been the news director for WAER since 1995. Dedicated to keeping local news coverage alive, Chris also has a passion for education, having trained, mentored and provided a platform for growth to more than a thousand students. Career highlights include having work appear on NPR, CBS, ABC and other news networks, winning numerous local and state journalism awards.