Bullying remains a serious issue, and it’s effects are sometimes devastating. Many want to focus on anti-bullying while others want to teach their children life skills that allow them to handle bullying when it happens. Most of the focus is on daily interactions like at school and online on Social Media platforms (Facebook and Twitter). However, what about games? Considering that 91% of children between the ages of 2-17 play video games, the gaming community cannot be left out of the bullying conversation.
Many gamers (especially women) can be subjected to all forms of hate speech and bullying to the point where a joyful experience can become painful. What can our children do to ensure a positive gaming experience?
I have experienced this firsthand during my gaming days and learned from the negative experience. First, our children need to be aware of their shortcomings. They aren’t perfect, so they will make mistakes, even while gaming. Owning our mistakes is a great way to defuse situations and prevent them from escalating.
Next, children don’t have to talk trash. Many play games for the enjoyment, so why seek to ruin someone’s day with hate? Often, these gamers wouldn’t do this in public, so why do it online?
If someone spews bile, our children don’t have to engage. They can mute, report and block players. If a players gets too many reports, their account may be suspended.
As players, our children have choices. They don’t have to be victims of harassment during online gaming. They can choose to rise above the negativity, they have the power to be part of the solution and make gaming better for everyone.
Have your children been the target of bullying online while gaming? How did they respond? Did it make them stop gaming? Have your children participated in online bullying in gaming?