Online games tempt kids to experiment and take extreme risks
Every day, we hear about young people engaging in online gaming challenges like “Blue Whale” and some of them tragically ending their lives. Such games appeal to young people because they provide a sense of connection. Those teenagers who feel socially isolated or unaccepted are thus more vulnerable. By engaging in the game, they develop a sense of belonging. If this is the only arena in where they feel this, then the pull of the game is strong — because it provides a boost to their well-being.
Alongside this, the nature of challenges games — like other online games — is addictive in that tasks start as relatively easy therefore provide a sense of achievement. However, as players progress, the challenges become tougher and they have to put in more effort in order to achieve the same feeling.
The widespread access to the internet means young people have become desensitised to what previously might have been considered as unacceptable. They are, therefore, willing to take more risks as they have a skewed perception of what are considered to be risky behaviours. Indeed, neurological research suggests that teenagers are more vulnerable to acting impulsively.
It is important to educate kids about such games and help them understand why they find them appealing.” Therefore, they may engage in the challenge without thinking about the consequences.
The online world offers anonymity, free from real-life challenges and expectations. This makes online games tempting in being able to experiment and take risks that a person may not do within the control and authority of the real world.
In order to try and protect our children, it is important to educate young people about the dangers of such games and help them understand why they might find them appealing. As a parent, it is important to observe your child and monitor their internet use. Talk to them about what they do on the internet and keep the computer in a public area of the house.
Young people who are showing signs of depression or social isolation are more at risk of engaging in online games. So, watch if your child is showing any unusual changes in behaviour such as less communicative, increased excessive internet use, less pleasure or engagement in previously enjoyed activities or social withdrawal.
If any of these behaviours are noted, then talk to your child to try to find out what is going on and seek professional support and advice.