Video Games and Youth
No. 91; October 2024
Playing video games has steadily grown in popularity for people of all ages. Adolescents play video games an average of 1-2 hours daily with boys averaging twice as much as girls.
In moderation, playing age-appropriate games is typically enjoyable and healthy. Some games involve strategy, teamwork, and problem solving, while others encourage movement or help build fine motor skills. There is a growing realization that the enjoyment of video games must be balanced with close monitoring and support for young people’s mental health.
What should families know about video games?
Parents and caregivers should be familiar with the games their children are playing. Many games connect to the internet, which can allow children and adolescents to play games and socialize with peers, but there is also the ability to socialize with unknown people including adults. Such online interactions can be inappropriate and even dangerous.
There are concerns that families should know about when monitoring video game play. Since there can be violent or sexual images in video games, it is important for caregivers to see if the games are okay for their children and teens. Most video games are evaluated and rated for their content. The ratings are clearly marked and displayed prominently, but do not account for conversations with other players within the game. The rating is an important clue for the recommended age of the players.
There are also concerns about the effect of excessive video game play on young people. Excessive gaming can lead to:
- Less time socializing with friends and family
- Poor social skills
- Time away from schoolwork and other hobbies
- Lower grades
- Reduced reading
- Less exercise and weight changes
- Decreased sleep or poor quality of sleep
- Aggressive thoughts and behaviors
What can parents and caregivers do about their child’s video game habits?
- Avoid video games in preschool-aged children.
- Check the age ratings to help select safe games for the child or teen.
- Play video games with your children to share the experience and understand the content.
- Set clear rules about game content and playing time, both in and outside the home.
- Monitor online conversation and talk about the potential dangers of talking to people on the internet.
- Only allow video game playing in public areas of the home, not in the child’s bedroom.
- Keep clear screen time limits and consider a schedule for games.
- Ensure video games are only played after homework and chores are done.
- Encourage participation in a wide range of activities.
- Use console, TV, or internet parental controls.
- Monitor your child for signs of excessive play.
If you have concerns about your child’s gaming habits or if your child is having difficulty with their mood or behavior, you can ask a child and adolescent psychiatrist or another qualified mental health professional for help.
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