Challenge of children and gaming
Computer gaming can be a popular pastime for young people with an increasing number of games available online and through social media.
At Morrinsville Community House we have seen an increase in young people using computer gaming in an unhealthy way.
Young people are using gaming as an escape from negative feelings and experiences.
This may include bullying, relationships, violence, depression, isolation, low selfesteem, and loneliness.
This year, for the first time, the World Health Organisation are officially recognising the significant negative impacts that an overuse of gaming can have on a person’s life.
So, how much gaming is too much? When should parents be worried?
Families Managing Media (www.familiesmanagingmedia.com) is an online resource for parents, they list the warning signs of gaming overuse including talking about gaming achievement all the time, wanting to game right after school, lying about how much they are playing, preferring gaming over other social activities.
They may be missing family events and meals to game, choosing gaming inside rather than outdoor play, gaming when they are bored, tired, lonely, hungry.
It can also cause anger outbursts, rages, hurting property or others, they can’t list three things they enjoy more than gaming.
As parents we can support our children to play computer games in a non-harmful way.
Net Addiction NZ (www.netaddiction.co.nz) offers some good advice for parents. It includes asking parents to model appropriate technology use.
Be willing to talk, take an interest, and really listen. This will allow you to get a sense of what gaming means to your child and perhaps why they find it so hard to limit or control.
Set firm boundaries and be consistent, approach the issue from a position of curiosity and concern not judgement and criticism.
Provide and support alternative activities.
If you have concerns about your child’s gaming check out the websites mentioned above or discuss your concerns with your GP.
For more information, please contact Roslyn Nancekivell at Morrinsville Community House on 889 5355 or at roz@mvch.org.nz.