Cyberbullying in online video games has become a growing concern, especially for minors who make up a significant part of the gamer community. A report, prepared in 2022 by the ANAR Foundation and the Mutua Madrileña Foundation, reveals that 37% of young people who suffer cyberbullying experience it on gaming platforms. These bullying situations mainly occur in the game chats, where players are subject to insults, threats, social exclusion, and sexist or racist comments.
In response to this situation, prevention emerges as the most effective tool to combat cyberbullying in the realm of video games. The repercussions for victims can be severe, ranging from experiencing anxiety and depression to a notable loss of self-esteem. Therefore, the role of parents is crucial in protecting minors. It is vital for parents to be aware of the risks, promoting responsible use of digital platforms, and helping their children identify and report the harassment.
Qustodio, a company dedicated to online security and digital well-being for families, proposes several strategies to prevent cyberbullying in video games. First, it advocates for promoting open communication between parents and children so that minors can share their gaming experiences without fear. It also recommends that parents supervise the minors’ use of video games, familiarizing themselves with social options and privacy settings. Establishing clear rules about online interaction, such as avoiding sharing personal information or accepting friend requests from strangers, is also crucial to ensure safety.
Emily Lawrenson, communications manager at Qustodio, emphasizes the importance of parents addressing these issues from a perspective of open and non-judgmental communication. “It is essential for minors to feel comfortable discussing insecurities, lack of respect, harassment, or similar situations they may experience in the world of video games,” Lawrenson states.
As online video games continue to be an integral part of many young people’s lives, parents’ involvement and monitoring, along with increased awareness of the risks, are essential to protect minors from negative experiences on these platforms.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish