It Takes ALL Kinds!

Let's face it...when the word "GAMER" is spoken aloud, THIS is what people pull from the far corners of their mind.  

Or maybe this...

Or...this...

Okay...I have to admit...this is what I think of too when I hear the word.  I can't help it!  I literally knew what to Google search to pull up the images that I wanted to portray.  Why wouldn't anyone else!?!

It is not their fault!  Most gamers fall into this realm as a side effect of all things gaming.  I don't know a gamer that would be offended by this translation to be honest though.  They'd be offended for about a minute and then you'd see a wry smile start to come forth and sure enough they'd say "yeah, I've done that before." To what extreme the passions of their fan favorites creep into their RL (real life) is up to them, and the life that they lead.  

To walk through a crowd at a gaming convention or event is to meet people from all walks of life and all livelihoods.  I have met doctors and dentist, sales reps and company owners, desk clerks and "grunts", entertainers (I've already introduced you to THE SUPERMAN himself), online tech geniuses and wannabe online tech geniuses, and entrepreneurs of all types. It's amazing to see the gathering of the MINDS.  

Most, if not all of them I BELIEVE touch the spectrum of being Neurodivergent.  What is a neurodivergent you ask?  Well, let me just pull up my handy dandy GoogleSearch...

What does it mean when a person is neurodivergent?

The term “neurodivergent” describes people whose brain differences affect how their brain works. That means they have different strengths and challenges from people whose brains don’t have those differences. The possible differences include medical disorders, learning disabilities and other conditions. The possible strengths include better memory, being able to mentally picture three-dimensional (3D) objects easily, the ability to solve complex mathematical calculations in their head, and many more.

Neurodivergent isn’t a medical term. Instead, it’s a way to describe people using words other than “normal” and “abnormal.” That’s important because there’s no single definition of “normal” for how the human brain works.

The word for people who aren’t neurodivergent is “neurotypical.” That means their strengths and challenges aren't affected by any kind of difference that changes how their brains work.

I can sit at a table with someone at a gaming event and within five minutes witness their quirks, their insecurities, and their lack of confidence tells (or over exuding confidence err).  But I can also look a little deeper and understand what brings them here...to the Gathering Of The MINDS.

I am fascinated by this aspect of gaming.  I found this great article that explains it so well:

 Neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism or ADHD, often find gaming to be a valuable tool for social connection, skill development, and self-regulation, offering a structured and predictable environment that can be comforting and engaging. 

Here's a more detailed look at neurodivergent gamers:

Benefits of Gaming for Neurodivergent Individuals:

• Social Connection & Community:

  Gaming can foster a sense of belonging and community, allowing neurodivergent individuals to connect with others who share similar interests. 
• Skill Development:

  Gaming can help develop skills like problem-solving, strategic thinking, and hand-eye coordination. 
• Self-Regulation & Emotional Processing:

  The structured and predictable nature of games can provide a sense of control and routine, which can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with anxiety or emotional regulation. 
• Escape & Focus:

  Games can offer an escape from the overwhelming aspects of everyday life, allowing players to focus their attention and momentarily set aside stressors. 
• Improved Communication:

  Online gaming can provide an easier environment for communication than face-to-face interactions, allowing neurodivergent individuals to connect and socialize more easily. 
• Neurodiversity-Affirming Environments:

  Some gaming communities and developers are actively working to create inclusive spaces that celebrate neurodiversity. 
• Gaming as a Coping Mechanism:

  For many neurodivergent individuals, gaming is more than just entertainment; it's a vital coping mechanism for managing stress, anxiety, and other challenges. 

Specific Examples:

• Autism:

  The structured rules and predictable patterns of video games often resonate strongly with autistic individuals. 
• ADHD:

  The fast-paced and engaging nature of some games can help individuals with ADHD manage their attention and focus. 

Challenges and Considerations:

• Online Safety:

  Neurodivergent young people may need extra support to stay safe online and navigate the online gaming environment. 
• Overplaying and Addiction:

  It's important to be mindful of the potential for overplaying and gaming addiction, and to encourage healthy gaming habits. 
• Inclusivity and Representation:

  The gaming industry and communities need to continue to work towards greater inclusivity and representation of neurodivergent individuals. 

This world was created for them...and more chances or not...BY THEM.  

This is a cure all a little for the world that they live in!  It has given them a resource,

a tool, a coping mechanism and outlet, to help their minds.  Knowing what I now 

know about my husband's mind and about the minds of my children, I can look at this

and only see a helpful tool.  A great outlet for the immense hyper speed going on inside 

their minds. I encourage it, and I try to support it every chance I get...NOW.

Often times, there is misunderstanding.  A parent doesn't see why the priority is so high

for a spouse or a child.  A child can't truly express why they feel the need to do what they do.

It easily becomes a point of contention rather than an understood step to then see a great 

outcome.  I loved how this article was able to easily explain what that process might look like

and would encourage you to save it as a great resource.

I think the main need is to find good boundaries and areas of understanding. Both for our gamer, and for us.  Life happens and there are things that definitely need to take priority.  Finding enjoyment in that life is important too.  Once the understanding is in plain sight, this creates a safe space to allow their needs to be met and then for them to meet you where your needs are as well.  I love the scene in Galaxy Quest where the young gamer was helping the lead cast save the galaxy and at a crucial moment his mom is insisting he take out the trash!  It gets me every time!  I FEEL her frustration...and I now get HIS frustration!  All that's needed is understanding.