# PTE RW FIB #18: The Dual Impact of Digital Gaming

Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks #18 - Level 2 - Feeds Reading

> Below is a text with blanks. Click on each blank, a list of choice will appear. Select the appropriate answer choice for each blank.

Empirical studies have delineated a dual-edged nature of computer gaming, presenting both beneficial and ____ outcomes. On the positive front. These games often require players to engage in critical thinking, plan ahead, and adapt to rapidly changing situations, ____ stimulating cognitive development and executive function skills. Conversely, concerns have been raised about potential adverse effects, particularly ____ violent video games and their correlation with aggressive behavior and desensitization to violence. The theory of social learning posits that consistent exposure to aggressive models in video games can lead to the internalization of aggressive norms, manifesting in increased physical aggression and reduced empathy. Additionally, the immersive nature of many games can lead to ____ lifestyle habits, contributing to obesity and related health issues. The academic discourse surrounding the effects of computer games on children is ongoing, with the consensus acknowledging the need for a balanced approach. This involves recognizing the potential for cognitive and social skill development through selective game genres while instituting boundaries to ____ exposure to harmful content and prevent problematic gaming behaviors.

## Answer

Empirical studies have delineated a dual-edged nature of computer gaming, presenting both beneficial and **detrimental** outcomes. On the positive front. These games often require players to engage in critical thinking, plan ahead, and adapt to rapidly changing situations, **thereby** stimulating cognitive development and executive function skills. Conversely, concerns have been raised about potential adverse effects, particularly **regarding** violent video games and their correlation with aggressive behavior and desensitization to violence. The theory of social learning posits that consistent exposure to aggressive models in video games can lead to the internalization of aggressive norms, manifesting in increased physical aggression and reduced empathy. Additionally, the immersive nature of many games can lead to **sedentary** lifestyle habits, contributing to obesity and related health issues. The academic discourse surrounding the effects of computer games on children is ongoing, with the consensus acknowledging the need for a balanced approach. This involves recognizing the potential for cognitive and social skill development through selective game genres while instituting boundaries to **mitigate** exposure to harmful content and prevent problematic gaming behaviors.

## Explanation

Blank 2 comes after a comma and before the -ing verb "stimulating." "Thereby" means "as a result of this" and fits that pattern. "So" and "which" would need a full verb instead. In blank 4, gaming that leads to obesity points to "sedentary," meaning sitting a lot. "Remote" and "ethical" do not explain weight gain.

## Hints

- Look at the words immediately before and after the blank to determine if you need a verb, adjective, or preposition.
- Consider the overall argument: is the sentence describing a positive outcome, a negative consequence, or a logical connection?

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