Significant Surge in Children's Participation in Online Gaming
A new report reveals a 60% increase in child engagement with online games in 2023, highlighting both benefits and concerns.
A recent report, 'Global Future Opportunities 50', released by a Dubai-based organization, outlines the increasing prominence of video games in the lives of millions worldwide, regardless of age groups.
The report notes that the year 2023 has seen a surge in online gaming participation among children, with an increase of nearly 60% compared to 2022. This trend is particularly notable in the age group of 3 to 7 years, where participation rose from 34% to 41%.
Furthermore, among teenagers aged 13 to 17, engagement in online gaming jumped from 72% to 92%.
The report emphasizes the need for innovative solutions that support various sectors of society, particularly given the concerning levels of psychological issues being reported.
A recent study involving approximately 13,000 video game players across 12 countries indicated that 71% of participants viewed gaming as a means to alleviate stress, while 64% cited its role in tackling daily challenges.
Additionally, 55% reported that video games contribute to strengthening family bonds.
Comparable statistics were reported by the European association participating in the survey, with rates of 68%, 53%, and 59% for the same respective categories.
Concerns have been raised regarding a decline in physical activity among this demographic.
Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart disease, strokes, diabetes, depression, dementia, and certain cancers, potentially preventing approximately one-fifth of annual deaths.
Estimates reveal that nearly four billion people—almost half of the world’s population—do not engage in sufficient physical activity.
This issue is particularly pronounced among women, girls, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, with inactivity rates reaching up to 70% in high-income countries.
The report suggests a future trend where physical and mental health become foundational aspects of the gaming industry.
It advocates for collaboration between game developers and healthcare sectors to address challenges such as gaming addiction and stress.
This could potentially lead to a significant shift towards the concept of 'serious games,' positioning gaming platforms as effective health tools that enhance individuals' quality of life.
According to the report, these engaging games could undergo clinical testing, and there is anticipation that physicians may prescribe them—potentially with insurance coverage—for patients suffering from mental health disorders, contributing to the reduction of anxiety and depression, and minimizing cognitive decline.
Moreover, the report underscores the importance of developing a comprehensive classification system to evaluate games based on their impacts on physical and mental health.
It calls for the establishment of a framework for rating bodies, similar to the Entertainment Software Rating Board, to serve as a reference that helps determine appropriate gaming durations for different demographics.
Such a system is expected to enhance cognitive skills while alleviating stress levels.
The report posits that the evolution of gaming will continue if rich and powerful interactive tools are made available, underpinned by clear societal standards.
It encourages game developers to integrate elements that promote healthy habits during gameplay, such as setting playtime limits, taking breaks, and providing age-appropriate content.
These efforts include ensuring transparency in data usage and maintaining a safe and secure gaming environment, which would foster trust between players and game development companies.
The report notes that the year 2023 has seen a surge in online gaming participation among children, with an increase of nearly 60% compared to 2022. This trend is particularly notable in the age group of 3 to 7 years, where participation rose from 34% to 41%.
Furthermore, among teenagers aged 13 to 17, engagement in online gaming jumped from 72% to 92%.
The report emphasizes the need for innovative solutions that support various sectors of society, particularly given the concerning levels of psychological issues being reported.
A recent study involving approximately 13,000 video game players across 12 countries indicated that 71% of participants viewed gaming as a means to alleviate stress, while 64% cited its role in tackling daily challenges.
Additionally, 55% reported that video games contribute to strengthening family bonds.
Comparable statistics were reported by the European association participating in the survey, with rates of 68%, 53%, and 59% for the same respective categories.
Concerns have been raised regarding a decline in physical activity among this demographic.
Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart disease, strokes, diabetes, depression, dementia, and certain cancers, potentially preventing approximately one-fifth of annual deaths.
Estimates reveal that nearly four billion people—almost half of the world’s population—do not engage in sufficient physical activity.
This issue is particularly pronounced among women, girls, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, with inactivity rates reaching up to 70% in high-income countries.
The report suggests a future trend where physical and mental health become foundational aspects of the gaming industry.
It advocates for collaboration between game developers and healthcare sectors to address challenges such as gaming addiction and stress.
This could potentially lead to a significant shift towards the concept of 'serious games,' positioning gaming platforms as effective health tools that enhance individuals' quality of life.
According to the report, these engaging games could undergo clinical testing, and there is anticipation that physicians may prescribe them—potentially with insurance coverage—for patients suffering from mental health disorders, contributing to the reduction of anxiety and depression, and minimizing cognitive decline.
Moreover, the report underscores the importance of developing a comprehensive classification system to evaluate games based on their impacts on physical and mental health.
It calls for the establishment of a framework for rating bodies, similar to the Entertainment Software Rating Board, to serve as a reference that helps determine appropriate gaming durations for different demographics.
Such a system is expected to enhance cognitive skills while alleviating stress levels.
The report posits that the evolution of gaming will continue if rich and powerful interactive tools are made available, underpinned by clear societal standards.
It encourages game developers to integrate elements that promote healthy habits during gameplay, such as setting playtime limits, taking breaks, and providing age-appropriate content.
These efforts include ensuring transparency in data usage and maintaining a safe and secure gaming environment, which would foster trust between players and game development companies.
