With millions downloading and playing Pokemon GO, Dr. Michael Bordieri talks with Tracy Ross on Sounds Good about psychological benefits and concerns.
Pokemon GO is part of a concept of gaming known as augmented reality devices, Bordieri says. Players are interacting in both the real world and the virtual world when searching for Pokemon. He says this kind of gaming could have a positive impact on people with depression or anxiety by affording them opportunities to get out and interact with others.
“I think there are some positives. Again, this is so new we don’t really have research on this yet. I think psychology needs to catch up, like we all do, to this new technology and new way of thinking,” Bordieri said.
But Bordieri says there are some concerns.
“And so I think there is a question of whether or not this technology facilitates social engagement or, paradoxically, builds up more barriers between us. Even though we’re interacting more out together, are we really together or is this operating in our own virtual world instead of the world in front of us?” Bordieri said.
Bordieri says whether this integration of technology is good or bad is an open question.
