81% of Saudi Children Play Age-Inappropriate Computer Games: A Growing Concern

In an era of rapid digital transformation, gaming has become an integral part of children’s lives. However, a recent survey highlights an alarming trend: 81% of parents in Saudi Arabia believe their children play computer games that are not age-appropriate. This concern is particularly prevalent among boys, with 50% engaging in such behavior compared to 43% of girls. While gaming offers entertainment and educational opportunities, its unchecked use raises questions about safety, psychological impact, and exposure to cyber threats. This article delves into the statistics, underlying causes, and potential consequences of this trend, alongside actionable advice for parents and guardians to ensure a secure digital environment for their children.

The Landscape of Gaming Among Children in Saudi Arabia

A survey titled “Growing Up Online” conducted by Toluna in collaboration with Kaspersky in 2023-2024 sheds light on the gaming habits of children aged 3 to 17 across Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, South Africa, Egypt, and the UAE. The findings reveal that:

• 81% of parents believe their children play age-inappropriate games.
• Boys are more likely to engage in such behavior than girls, at 50% vs. 43%.
• Children reported a significantly lower figure, with only 24% admitting to playing unsuitable games, suggesting either underreporting or parental overestimation.

The survey also indicated that gaming frequency is notable:

• 37% of children play for 1-3 hours weekly.
• 29% spend 1-2 hours gaming daily.

These figures underscore the growing prevalence of gaming in daily routines, with potential impacts on physical activity, mental health, and academic performance.

Key Factors Driving Age-Inappropriate Gaming

Several factors contribute to this trend:

1. Parental Awareness Gap: Many parents are unaware of the games their children play or their age restrictions.
2. Peer Influence: Children often gravitate toward games popular among their friends, irrespective of age ratings.
3. Lack of Regulation: The gaming industry in many regions lacks stringent enforcement of age restrictions.
4. Accessible Technology: Smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles are widely available, making it easier for children to access games without parental supervision.
5. Appealing Content: The immersive nature of modern games, coupled with targeted marketing strategies, makes them attractive to younger audiences.

The Risks of Age-Inappropriate Gaming

1. Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Games rated for older audiences often feature violence, strong language, or mature themes.
2. Cybersecurity Threats: Online gaming can expose children to cyberbullying, phishing attempts, and malware attacks.
3. Addiction and Health Issues: Prolonged gaming can lead to physical issues like eye strain and psychological concerns, including gaming addiction.
4. Social Isolation: Excessive gaming may reduce time spent on social interactions or outdoor activities.

10 Practical Tips to Safeguard Children Online

1. Understand Game Ratings: Familiarize yourself with age ratings like ESRB or PEGI to determine suitable games.
2. Play Games Together: Engage with your child’s gaming interests to build trust and monitor content.
3. Use Parental Controls: Implement tools like Kaspersky Safe Kids or similar software to monitor and limit access.
4. Educate About Cyber Threats: Teach children to recognize phishing attempts, scams, and inappropriate behavior online.
5. Set Screen Time Limits: Establish daily or weekly gaming limits to ensure balanced routines.
6. Encourage Alternative Activities: Promote hobbies like sports, reading, or arts to reduce dependency on gaming.
7. Stay Updated on Trends: Regularly research popular games and their potential risks.
8. Communicate Openly: Maintain an open dialogue about gaming habits and online interactions.
9. Secure Devices: Ensure all devices are protected with updated antivirus software and strong passwords.
10. Monitor Online Interactions: Be aware of who your child interacts with during multiplayer games to prevent exposure to harmful influences.

Conclusion

The prevalence of age-inappropriate gaming among children in Saudi Arabia reflects a broader challenge in managing digital exposure in the modern age. While gaming can be a source of entertainment and education, unchecked access poses significant risks to children’s mental health, security, and well-being. By fostering awareness, leveraging parental controls, and promoting open communication, parents can create a safer and more enriching digital environment for their children. By ZAWYA

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