New Survey Reveals Surprising Reasons Parents Are Less Worried About Kids Playing Video Games
Bubba was quoted in a Parents Publication.
According to a new survey, negative perceptions of esports are a thing of the past.
Key Takeaways
New survey finds that more parents are supporting their children's gaming interests.
Research shows that gaming has benefits such as better problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic thinking skills—and can even be a potential future career path.
However, balance is key, as too much screen time can still be harmful.
Traditionally, many parents have not had the most positive association with kids playing video games—I know I haven't. However, gaming, which is also known as esports, is an increasingly accepted avenue for kids’ interests. And, according to a new survey, a potential future career path.
The report, which was conducted by game-based learning company Prodigy, reviewed 1,000 American parents, and ultimately indicates that negative perceptions of esports are a thing of the past.
What the Survey Found
Among the key findings of the survey are that:
Parents have invested as much as $3,000 in their kids’ gaming ambitions, with the average spend being $1,000.
More than 2 in 5 parents believe esports could provide a more fulfilling future than traditional jobs such as working as a teacher or a lawyer.
1 in 3 parents believe gaming might help their kids secure a college scholarship.
Half of parents think video games positively impact their children's mental health and social skills.
Parents report observing several benefits of gaming such as better strategic thinking and problem-solving, as well as an increased ability to make decisions under pressure. They also witnessed their child’s communication and teamwork skills improve as a result of esports.
Not only are parents becoming increasingly favorable towards gaming because of the benefits to their kids' mental health and overall cognitive skills, but they also report that their child’s passion for gaming also played a role in shifting their perspective.
Moreover, the expansion of career opportunities and college scholarships in the gaming field have also heightened parental interest. Notably, kids as young as 11 reportedly make hundreds or even thousands of dollars gaming. Meanwhile, top earners in esports earn millions playing games like Fortnite.
Behind the Research
The researchers behind the study assert that the stereotype of a lazy gamer is a thing of the past. "Video gaming is no longer seen as an empty pastime, says Joshua Prieur, EdD, and director of education enablement at Prodigy Education. "In fact, video games have been shown to foster a growth mindset by keeping kids challenged without worrying about failing.”
Dr. Prieur adds that parents are increasingly aware that there are more opportunities in gaming than becoming a professional esports player.
“Many young gamers go on to become game developers, software engineers, or designers, shaping the future of interactive entertainment,” he says. “Others find opportunities in streaming, content creation, and coaching. The industry also needs analysts, event organizers, and marketing professionals.”
That said, Dr. Prieur acknowledges, “It’s understandable for parents to be cautious about a career in gaming—and it won’t be the right fit for the vast majority. But that’s also true of any sport children show a passion for.”
Many young gamers go on to become game developers, software engineers, or designers, shaping the future of interactive entertainment. Others find opportunities in streaming, content creation, and coaching.
— Joshua Prieur, EdD
What the Experts Say
Gaming experts and mental health professionals alike have taken note of the evolution of the perception of esports.
As Bubba Gaeddert, head of events and senior lecturer at the College of Esports in London, UK, and president and co-founder of the Videogames and Esports Foundation, affirms, “Esports has been growing fast over the last decade, and we are seeing a real shift in how parents view gaming. It is no longer just entertainment. Parents are realizing that gaming can be a legitimate path to college, scholarships, and careers.”
Dr. Michael Kane, a psychiatrist and chief medical officer at the Indiana Center for Recovery agrees that the findings of the survey line up with the trends he sees in his clinic. “Parents nowadays warm up to gaming not only as a recreational activity but also as a learning and career choice discipline,” he says, adding he has seen a growing appreciation for the positive aspects of gaming.
Indeed, the experts we spoke with agree gaming can provide kids with numerous benefits—whether they aspire to a career in esports or not—including:
Increased cognition. Gaeddert cites problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic thinking as pros of competitive gaming.
Improved social skills. According to Hallie Zwibel, DO, director of the Center for Esports Medicine at New York Institute of Technology, “Gaming can provide children with opportunities to connect with peers through a shared interest.” Adding that, “A socially anxious child or one who doesn’t enjoy traditional sports may find camaraderie and friendship in the more comfortable setting of a video game.”
Equal opportunities. “Unlike traditional sports, gaming is open to people of all abilities. It is one of the most inclusive forms of competition,” Gaeddert says.
That said, it’s undeniable that too much screen time is not all upside. Cons for kids include:
Sedentary behavior. “Players need to balance screen time with movement, stretching, and healthy habits,” says Gaeddert. He adds that too much gaming can adversely affect sleep and focus.
Social isolation. Dr. Kane notes that unregulated screen time has the potential to impact social health due to lack of engagement in social activities.
Safety issues. “Parents should stay aware of the games their kids play, encourage open conversations, and use tools to monitor and protect them,” advises Gaeddert, who also cites addiction as a potential risk.
Balance Is Key
To mitigate any detriments associated with gaming, experts stress that balance as key when a child shows a passion for gaming.
“Parents should encourage a balanced approach—setting limits on gaming hours and ensuring that time is also dedicated to schoolwork, physical activity, and face-to-face interactions,” Dr. Prieur emphasizes.
Kelsey Falter, CEO and founder of MOTHER Games agrees. “An over-reliance on screens can lead to burnout or social isolation, just as an over-commitment to any single sport can risk physical strain or injury," she explains.
Overall, as the survey indicates, the consensus is that parents are getting on board with the prevalence of gaming in our children's lives. “As society leans deeper into new career paths for young people–redefining what success looks like–parents are adapting to that shift,” Falter affirms.
That said, Gaeddert lets parents know one reassuring thing, “Parents do not have to fully understand every game to support their child’s interest.” And that allows many of us to take a sigh of relief.
