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Kids and MMOsRisksRespondents were asked to describe what they thought were the main risks associated with allowing their kids to play online games. Their responses were coded by category. If a respondent described multiple risks, each was coded separately. Thus, the following percentages add up to more than 100%. We'll go through these risks in order of descending frequency. For each, I'll provide some typical responses. Exposure to Inappropriate Language and Themes (42%) Exposure to ideas and behavior that they are not ready for -- e.g. inappropriate language or subjects in OOC chat (porn, aggressive or unfounded political or religious attacks, etc.). [M, 38]
Online Predators (32%) A serious (but not very likely) danger would be for an internet perv to attempt to contact my kids. Still, it's something I'm on the lookout about. [F, 50]
The sharing of personal information such as addresses, phone numbers and such by people preying on the gullible and inexperienced. [M, 29] Spending Too Much Time Playing (25%) I would also be slightly worried about them becoming addicted to playing on the computer, and ignoring their real life commitments, like school work, or playing outside/exercising. [M, 32]
Abusive Behavior (13%) There are very rude and hurtful people in every MMO, and children can be very sensitive to personal attacks. [M, 32]
Social Immaturity (10%) The concern about this risk was its impact on other players (rather a direct impact on the child). My primary concern is that he is not perceived as rude or annoying to players that don't realize his age. [F, 38]
Also concerned about the adults not being able to enjoy being adults because of the presence of the child. [M, 34] Being Taken Advantage of (6%) Mostly players that persuade the kids to sell something for way too cheap, i.e. they are susceptible to con men. [M, 37]
The remaining risks were described by 5% or fewer of the respondents and I will list them briefly here: Thinking of Violence as a Solution (5%)
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Current Issue: Vol. 7-1 (03/09/2009) |
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Tribal design by snoopydoo.
Crusader graphic by Gravity.
All other materials available at The Daedalus Project are copyright 2003-2006
by Nick
Yee.