Now it's possible to limit access to multiplayer games and networks
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Unlike an increasing amount of today’s world wide web, this article was carefully crafted by the diligent humans at Arbiio, not AI. Accuracy is of paramount importance to us.
Video games have transcended their role as mere entertainment. Now, there are large scale online social gatherings, and fierce team based competition in the form of esports. Games like Roblox and online gaming networks such as PlayStation Network (PSN) have become vibrant spaces where players connect, converse, and compete. While each of these can enable enriching experiences, they also present unique challenges, particularly for young players. As parents and guardians, understanding these challenges can help us make informed decisions about managing online gaming access at home. Let's delve into why you might consider blocking or limiting access to online play for certain games, or entire gaming networks.
Academic performance
While gaming can offer cognitive benefits, such as improved problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination, excessive gaming can negatively impact education and overall development.
A 2024 study published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction (IJMHA) examined the relationship between video game usage time and academic performance in adolescent students and found that excessive gaming is associated with decreased academic performance. The immersive nature of games can lead to prolonged sessions, reducing the time available for homework and study. This can result in lower grades and a diminished focus on educational responsibilities.
Setting boundaries around gaming time, especially during school days, can help maintain a healthy balance between gaming and academics. Encouraging structured schedules that prioritise educational activities can foster better time management skills.
Sleep disruption
Gaming, particularly late into the night, can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased cognitive function. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. A study published in Pediatrics found that children who engage in screen-based activities before bed are more likely to experience sleep disturbances.
To combat this, establish a "no screens" rule at least an hour before bedtime, enforceable across your entire home network, with Arbiio. This can help ensure that children get the rest they need to perform well academically and maintain overall well-being.
Social engineering & predatory behaviour
Online gaming platforms are not just playgrounds for fun; they can also be arenas for manipulation and exploitation.
Social engineering involves manipulating young gamers into divulging confidential information. This can occur through seemingly innocent interactions. A study published by IEEE highlights how young gamers can be susceptible to social engineering tactics, as they may not recognise the signs of manipulation due to their age and inexperience.
Gamers might be tricked into sharing personal information or account details, which can lead to unauthorised access to their accounts or revealing details about your home address or other family information.
Predatory behaviour, including grooming and exploitation, is a serious concern on platforms like Roblox and PSN. A report by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) found that online gaming is a common avenue for predators to target children, often using chat functions to build trust and manipulate them.
Educating your young ones about the importance of protecting personal information and recognising suspicious behaviour is essential. These categories of risk are primary reasons you may want to block, not just restrict, online gaming for very young players. To mitigate these risks, consider using Arbiio’s Parental Controls to limit access across your whole home network, and regularly discuss online safety with your children. Encouraging them to report any uncomfortable interactions can also help maintain a safer gaming environment.
Arbiio are advocates for the maintaining of an open dialogue with your children about their gaming experiences. Parents and guardians should discuss the importance of online safety, the risks of sharing personal information, and how to handle negative interactions. By creating a supportive environment, you empower them to make informed decisions and seek help when needed.
References
- IEEE, "Factors Influencing Players’ Susceptibility to Social Engineering in Social Gaming Networks," 2020.
- NSPCC, "82% rise in online grooming crimes against children in the last 5 years," 2023
- IJMHA, "Problematic Gaming and Students’ Academic Performance: A Systematic Review," 2024
- Pediatrics, "The Effects of Screen Time on Sleep Patterns in Children," 2017.
- Security Intelligence, "Cyberattacks against gamers continue beyond 167% increase," 2023.