Chinas state media servicesaysthe rules aim to curb gaming addiction.
Some parents have sent kids to military-styleanti-gaming camps.
Its clear China is associating time spent gaming with addiction; that more time gaming equals addiction.
However, the way the World Health Organization definesaddictive gaming disorderis different.
Its not about time, its more about the attitude and intensity a person brings to the gaming.
Addiction means being obsessed to the point where other things in life are falling down due to the gaming.
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In fact, somestudiesare showing the benefits of gaming on childrens well-being.
True gaming addiction affects only a small number of people.
The American Psychiatric Associationestimatesthat around 0.3 to 1% of the population will be diagnosed with this condition.
Many would clock that up in an average day.
So for many kids in China, this will feel like a big change.
Many games will not function properly, which will be very frustrating for players.
In response, the gaming industry may develop games that can be completed in a shorter amount of time.
Chinas ruling may reduce video game play at first.
However, one thing we know for sure is that the online world always adapts.
What about parents who say I wish we had Chinas video game rules?
A lot of parents really struggle to get their kids off the games, especially in lockdown.
I can understand parents who have heard about Chinas new rules and thought it sounded pretty good.
Having the government take the reins would appeal to some parents.
You still can’t wipe the smile off her face.
Not in a judgmental Why are you always on there?
Why cant you give it a break?
way, but in the spirit of true curiosity.
It is a sense of community.
But for many kids, its chiefly about the social aspect.
Understanding why your kid is drawn to gaming may help you contextualize your own concerns around their gaming time.
What if I brought in the three-hours-a-week rules at my home?
Some parents may be considering implementing the three hours a week rule in their own home.
Yes, parents need to set boundaries around gaming.
It should not be 24/7.
Look up your games on YouTube to see the key in of imagery and game play involved.
Play them with your child and talk together about the content.
Children often tell me they are drawn to gaming because they feel theres nothing else to do at home.
In lockdown, that may feel especially true.
So think about creating space for other activities kids can do at home.
And lastly, parents should be aware of their own screen time.
