Online Gaming and Its Impact on Youth Mental Health
Written by Gillian Lao
Online gaming can be a fun and educational activity for many young people, but it can also expose them to racism and extremism that can harm their mental health and well-being. According to a report by the Anti-Defamation League, about two-thirds of U.S. gamers aged 10 to 17 experience harassment on multiplayer platforms. This can affect their self-identity, self-esteem, social belonging, and worldview. Racism can also lead to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and suicide.
Some online gaming platforms have policies and practices to prevent, monitor, and respond to online hate and harassment. For example, Roblox has a zero-tolerance policy for content or behavior that supports any terrorist or extremist organization or individual. However, there are also challenges and limitations that gaming companies face in dealing with online racism, such as technical difficulties, legal issues, user privacy, and freedom of speech.
To improve the online gaming experience for young people, below are some recommendations that can be followed, such as:
- Educating players about diversity and inclusion
- Promoting positive interactions among players
- Reporting and blocking abusive players
- Seeking support from friends and family
- Seeking professional help if needed
Online gaming can be a source of joy and learning for many young people, but it can also be a source of pain and suffering for others. It is important to be aware of the potential risks and benefits of online gaming, and to take steps to protect oneself and others from online racism and extremism.
Sources:
https://www.adl.org/resources/report/hate-no-game-hate-and-harassment-online-games-2022
