02. A realistic approach about videogames and children

Publication 2

A realistic approach about videogames and children: 

Myths, truths, and advice for parents

The world of video games is an almost magical place since in it one can be "transformed" and entertained in a unique way. This world is rich in images, colors, sound, and movement. Therefore, playing video games activates a great many senses making this experience tremendously interesting.

It is a fact that there is a dominant opinion which is based on publications that bombastically point out the association of aggressive behaviour in children with video games. Consequently, terrorism is being created around the activity of children and adolescents with video games. On the one hand, it is scientifically proven that video games can easily distract those who play them. There are many cases where children get angry and panic when they are playing or even when they are asked to stop playing. On the other hand, I read studies that are directed towards an attempt to refute the absoluteness of the argument that video games cause aggressive behaviors as it is proven that video games can sharpen creativity. In short, there are conflicting views on this issue. What is true?

Are video games a danger? If so, when? What can parents do? 

What is myth and what is true:

An outdated argument is that video games exclusively cause behavioural problems. It is, unfortunately, a timeless, cold, and rigid argument for those who use it. This myth can be debunked by the logic of the basic principle of anything. That is, everything that exists or has been invented in this world serves a purpose and a human need. Just as a knife can cut bread, it can also cause immense damage. So, it all depends on who is using something and why. Thus, it is the same with video games. It is worth mentioning that the age of the child, the type and the content of the video game are important.

Another myth is that video games reproduce violence. Not all video games reproduce violence. In particular, there is a huge category of video games that not only sharpen a child's creativity and imagination but also their knowledge. Thereafter, violence is reproduced and projected in all media, whether on television, in films, whether on the internet. 

It is the parent's duty and moral obligation to give the child the appropriate lessons and stimuli about the fact that violence, unfortunately, exists, is not a solution and causes suffering.

Basic guideline for young and pre-teens (6-12 years old): because video games can very easily lead to addiction, making children neglect their studying and other activities, video games should not be left unchecked. Unfortunately, there are instances where there is peace and quiet in the house when the children is playing; because of this, the children are allowed to play for endless hours. As unpleasant or undesirable as this situation may seem, it is a reality, and it does happen. Children need to learn to play with limits and to respect these limits. Also, it is important to explain to your children that they are playing as a supplement to their day or week and not to replace all their other activities. To do this, as parents, you need to not lose your temper when your child is ignoring you when they are playing. Your overt irritation is too easily transmitted to children and can bring undesirable results. In these situations, you can remind children of your agreement and what happens when it is not kept.

Therefore, it is important to have open communication with your children and be able to make an agreement about how much they will play and what the outcome will be if this agreement is not kept. It is also important to set clear time limits.

In both cases there may be some tension. However, you can methodically explain to your child that controlling time is for his or her own good. By playing for a reasonable amount of time, the child is benefiting.

Advice for parents: 

Find out the age rating of the game.

Each video game has a label on the box at the bottom left or on the back (in digital format, it's written in the information) stating the age at which a child is allowed to play the game. It also includes details such as whether it contains bad language or violence. 

Observe your children as they play.

However, each video game and each of the visuals can affect each child differently, just like a movie. You can do some research on the game you are considering buying and discuss it with your child. Afterwards you can observe if the video game has negative effects on the children (e.g.: nightmares).

What to do when I don't have time to check on my children?

There are occasions when parents are too busy with their work to control the time their children spend in front of the screen. Most game consoles have a "parental control" setting that allows you to pre-set the amount of time the game console is on.

This is no longer the 1970s.

It is pointless for a parent to try to keep their children away from technology. Nowadays, technology and screens are everywhere. The more one refuses to give their children the opportunity to play with electronics, the more the children will idolize it and pursue it obsessively. It is better to struggle to teach your children to play within limits and in safety than to ignore the existence of video games. At some point, as they grow up, they will get one. It is better that you teach them to play with a limit and know the dangers (especially from the internet) than to remain naive.

Children need to learn to play with limits and to respect these limits.

Ferdig, R. E. Helping Parents Understand the Positives and Negatives of Video Game Use. Learning, Education and Games, 185.

Taylor, L. N. (2006). Positive features of video games. Handbook of children, culture and violence, 247-265.

The Impact of Video Games on Children | HealthGuidance.org