Say ‘GG’ to Hate, Let's Play Positive!
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For many parents, the world of gaming can feel like a mysterious frontier. We see the joy and excitement on our children's faces as they delve into these increasingly immersive worlds, but concerns about online safety often lurk in the back of our minds, with verbal harassment a major issue.
A 2023 survey found 76% of US gamers reported experiencing harassment, with 60% of those describing it as “severe”. Though this number was actually a significant drop from the 86% reported in 2022 (77% for severe), it’s clearly still a very prevalent problem.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, the CEO of FreezeNova Games and a gaming expert, offers valuable insights to help you empower your child to navigate these situations confidently.
“Verbal harassment in online games can take many forms,” explains Marin. “It could be anything from name-calling and insults to threats and discriminatory language.” These experiences can be upsetting and frustrating for your child, impacting their enjoyment of the game and possibly even their mental health.
The most important step is fostering open communication with your child. “Encourage them to talk to you if they encounter any kind of negativity online,” advises Marin. “Let them know you're always there to listen and help them navigate the situation.” This open dialogue creates a safe space for your child to express their feelings and seek guidance.
Reporting and Responding
If your child encounters harassment, empower them to report it. Most gaming companies have stepped up their efforts regarding this. “Reporting these incidents helps the platform take action against the perpetrator,” says Marin.
When faced with harassment directly, Marin suggests a two-pronged approach. “If it’s a light barking match that gets slightly out of hand, something along the lines of, ‘I didn’t appreciate that,’ would suffice.” However, if the harassment is persistent or severe, Marin advises disengaging. “Don't respond, and consider muting or blocking the player, or even leaving the game server.”
It's important for your child to know they're not alone. Encourage them to connect with positive online communities or find friends who share their gaming interests. Having a network of supportive peers makes a big difference.
Most gaming platforms have community guidelines that outline acceptable behavior. “Familiarize yourself with these guidelines,” suggests Marin, “and discuss them with your child.” Additionally, remember that many platforms have moderators who are there to enforce the rules. Don't hesitate to report incidents to them as well.
Positive Reinforcement
Last but not least, Marin emphasizes the importance of praising your child for handling harassment well. “Let them know you're proud of them for standing up for themselves or disengaging from a negative situation.” Positive reinforcement can build confidence and encourage them to continue making good choices, whilst distancing them from such behaviors.
By promoting open communication, equipping your child with reporting tools and building a support system, you can strengthen their ability to navigate the online gaming world confidently. Remember, with a little guidance, your child can enjoy the positive aspects of online gaming while minimizing the impact of negativity.
About FreezeNova
FreezeNova offers gamers the freedom to enjoy their favorite games without any restrictions. Dedicated to providing free access to a wide array of high-quality, unblocked games, FreezeNova ensures an enjoyable and addictive experience for gamers of all levels. Whether you prefer solo play or enjoy competing with friends, FreezeNova's community features facilitate fast and easy connections with fellow gamers. The platform fosters a friendly and positive atmosphere, promoting engaging conversations and thrilling competitions. FreezeNova caters to diverse gaming preferences, offering everything from shooters and racing games to puzzles and survival simulators.
CEO Marin Cristian-Ovidiu is a developer with 10+ years of experience in game design and development. Marin first introduced FreezeNova as a brand for indie games when he published Crazy Ball. Established as a start-up company in 2019, FreezeNova's mission is to develop and publish fun, accessible games that can be enjoyed online by everyone.
Sources
Survey on gaming harassment from Most common forms of harassment while playing online video games in the United States from 2019 to 2023
Link
Post courtesy of FreezeNova, (https://unblocked-games.s3.
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