As video games become more mainstream, many parents may wonder how they are affecting their children. Video game addiction can be an incredible time sink for an adult player and can be similarly detrimental to a child’s study habits. Studies have also shown that video games may be linked to depression. Children that play video games at an above average rate were found to be more socially anxious, more depressed and more distant than their peers.

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It’s important to note that video games don’t necessarily cause depression. Instead, a child may resort to video games because they already feel depressed and are attempting to escape. If this is the case, a parent can use an increase in video game playing as a sign that their child may be going through something difficult in school. Removing video games entirely is not the answer and could actually drive a child further away from their parent.

In recent years, many parents have expressed that they feel alienated from their children due to the amount of technology that is used in their children’s everyday lives. Conscientious monitoring of a child’s habits may allow a parent to reach out to their child before it is too late. Parents may also attempt to strengthen their bond with their children by showing an interest in their hobbies.
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