GameOn How Gigi Hamilton is Unlocking the Psychological Power of Gaming

BY MAYRA PARRILLA

When Gigi Hamilton first discovered her son’s love for video games, little did she know that it would lead her on a remarkable quest to unlock the hidden psychological potential of gaming for youth. As an organizational psychologist and a licensed therapist, Hamilton had spent years assisting individuals and companies in enhancing their mental health and well-being. But her unexpected entry into the gaming industry was sparked by her son’s passion, prompting her to embark on a mission to educate parents about the multifaceted nature of gaming.

It all began when Hamilton decided to help her son navigate his post-high school journey. She knew he enjoyed video games, but she was unaware of the extent to which his interest had grown and the vast opportunities it held. “I discovered that he was ranked among the Top 60 gamers globally, putting him in the professional gamer category,” Hamilton explained. As word spread about her son’s talent, he gained recognition on various platforms dedicated to highlighting top gamers. This newfound exposure attracted college gaming team coaches and others who approached him with scholarship offers.

For Hamilton, this eye-opening experience made her realize that she had underestimated the significance of gaming as a potential career path. “As a parent, I realized how little I knew about this industry, which meant that other parents were likely in the same boat,” she admitted. Motivated by this realization, Hamilton felt a responsibility to shed light on the gaming world for parents, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. “What I found is that people of color, in particular, are more super consumers; they spend money on these industries but don’t understand how they can actually make money from them,” she observed.

Through her counseling service, Hamilton organizes information sessions led by gaming experts, aimed at educating parents and gamers about the diverse opportunities within the gaming industry. Beyond financial aspects, Hamilton and her team also address the psychological impact of gaming, working closely with parents and gamers to modify behaviors that could be detrimental. One significant concern often discussed in these sessions is the amount of time children spend playing video games. “As parents, we need to stay in tune with their gaming habits, understanding what they’re doing and how it may be developing into a bad habit,” Hamilton advised, acknowledging that some children can become addicted.

In addition to psychological support, Hamilton also assists those seeking performance improvement in gaming. “Sometimes it’s about practice time, other times it’s about enhancing hand-eye coordination. We connect them with performance coaches who can identify their specific needs,” Hamilton shared.

By embracing the complexities of the gaming world, Hamilton is bridging the gap between parents and their gaming-savvy children. Through her initiative, she is debunking myths, highlighting opportunities, and equipping families with the tools to navigate the ever-expanding gaming landscape. So, the next time you spot your child engrossed in a video game, remember that within that digital realm lies a potential pathway to personal growth and success, waiting to be unlocked with the guidance of visionaries like Gigi Hamilton.

BY MAYRA PARRILLA