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In a historic moment for chess, Gukesh Dommaraju, an 18-year-old prodigy from Chennai, India, has become the youngest world chess champion ever. He won the championship by defeating China's Ding Liren. The thrilling final match was held in Singapore, and he broke Garry Kasparov's previous record of winning the title at 22 in 1985.
A study reveals how playing a game of chess can help in the overall development of youngsters. Among youngsters, the game of chess improves memory, enhances problem solving skills, elevates creativity and has many psychological benefits. Along with mental benefits, it also allows individuals to manage emotions like frustration during tense moments, enhancing emotional control.
How Chess Can Help In Cognitive Development
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According to a study, ‘Neuroscientific evidence support that chess improves academic performance in school,’ published on Research Gate, the game enables young players to gain advantages in various cognitive domains. It shows that playing chess significantly enhances various cognitive skills, leading to improved academic performance among students and youngsters.
Chess players tend to exhibit better spatial reasoning, which is crucial for understanding complex concepts. This ability allows them to visualize and manipulate objects in their minds, facilitating problem-solving and analytical thinking, as per the research. In addition to spatial reasoning, chess fosters long-term planning skills. It is also linked to improve memory retention as the game requires players to remember various strategies, positions, and opponent moves, which enhances their overall cognitive development.
Playing Chess Also Works As A Therapy
‘Chess Therapy’, another research paper published on Research Gate, claims that a game of chess is a therapeutic tool to enhance mental well-being. It addresses various psychological issues and is an effective tool for improving cognitive skills such as focus, planning, and critical thinking. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
During the chess sessions, therapists engage clients in the game, allowing them to explore their emotional responses to stress and challenges in a safe environment. The strategic nature of chess fosters self-awareness and better decision-making, leading to insights into personal behaviour. Additionally, this interactive approach strengthens the bond between therapist and client, promoting resilience and personal growth.
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Conclusion
Gukesh Dommaraju's remarkable achievement as the youngest world chess champion is a significant milestone for both him and Indian chess. His victory highlights the potential of chess to enhance cognitive development in young players. Research shows that chess improves essential skills such as spatial reasoning, long-term planning, and memory retention.
Additionally, chess therapy also provides therapeutic benefits, helping individuals manage psychological challenges while fostering emotional resilience and self-awareness. Gukesh's victory serves as an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of this game of chess in shaping young minds.