Аннтотация

© Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2018. Video games are often seen as a reason for numerous psychological changes, both positive and negative, in players. For instance, many authors believe that video games push children and adults towards risky behaviors and impulsivity. The study aimed to analyze both theoretical and empirical evidences of that sort, as well as to investigate parameters of personal and cognitive impulsivity and risk-readiness in adult video gamers. The sample of gamers included 223 participants, all from Russia. Impulsivity and related personal traits were measured with Eysencks’ Impulsiveness Scale (I-7) and Kornilova’s Personal Risk Factors Questionnaire. Impulsivity as cognitive style was measured by Kagan’s MFFT. No evidence of high impulsivity was found, though video game players, who played more than 12 h per week turned out to be more venturesome, compared to less active gamers. Sex-related differences were investigated: female gamers scored lower in empathy, while male gamers showed higher venturesomeness. In a cognitive style study, video gamers were more accurate compared to non-gamers, and thus showed no tendency for impulsivity. The results are contrasted to the published data, when applicable.