When it comes to inventions and innovations that have transformed the way we live our lives, it is hard to argue against the emergence of the internet. The scope of activities that can be enjoyed or undertaken online means that many people spend a considerable amount of their free time online, and in many cases, this can be a hugely positive thing.
While some critics suggest that spending time on the computer at home is an activity that encourages isolation, the ability to connect with others around the world transforms many people’s lives. The simple act of playing online games, either with or against people, provides teenagers with the chance to learn about different cultures and to learn that people from different locations are actually not that different. When it comes to expanding horizons, there is an argument that the internet and online gaming has had a hugely positive impact on people’s lives.
Of course, it would be wrong to suggest that the internet and online gaming are wholly positive. There are dangers associated with these activities and it is important that youngsters, and their parents, are aware of the risks and potential dangers associated with internet gaming.
Parents should set boundaries for online gaming
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It is important for parents to set boundaries when it comes to gaming. This may come in limiting the amount of time a child has access to online games or it could be that a child can only access the internet after they have completed their homework and undertaken some chores around the home. In this light, making internet access seem like a reward is a good way to regulate behavior and impose good values on a youngster.
It is important for parents to remember that their children aren’t only playing online games when they are at home, thanks to internet roaming, anyone with a smartphone device can access the internet, so this means youngsters may be playing games or speaking to people outside of the parent’s control of knowledge. However, no matter where a child is gaming from, they should consider the risks associated with gaming.
There are many addictions that may pose a threat to youngsters’ lives
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When people are asked to name aspects that people can become addicted to, it is likely that many answers will be shared before gaming is listed. There are certainly more dangerous things to become addicted to, such as drugs, alcohol and tobacco, but a gaming addiction can be very serious.
For many youngsters, gaming provides a rush of adrenaline and excitement which they do not see or receive in other parts of their life. This then sees them placing a greater level of importance on gaming and a teenager may find that they start to devote all of their free time to these games. This may be to the detriment of their education, their health and friendships or relationships, and this is where the dangers of gaming addiction come to the fore.
There are also some sites or gaming options which require players to pay money to access the game or where items can be bought, sold or traded for money, which means that there may be a monetary element attached to a gaming addiction. This can create further problems for the youngster and their family but regardless of whether there is a financial element to a gaming addiction or not, it can have a huge impact on a child’s life and on the life of their loved ones.
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While most parents will try to be as proactive as possible in ensuring their child avoid temptations, there will be situations where the child needs help to get better. If a child has succumbed to an addiction, there is a need to call on the support of professionals who are skilled and experienced in this line of work. In the present day, there are many temptations for youngsters and there is only so much that can be done to shield teenagers from the danger and difficulties of the world.
The work undertaken by Newport Academy is done so to provide teenagers with a fresh chance and hope of turning their life around. There is no reason to write off a youngster and if they are provided with the correct level of support and guidance, teenagers can overcome addictions and go on to lead fulfilling lives.
For many youngsters, the internet is a way to expand their horizons, to socialize with friends and to have fun. For some teenagers though, the internet can be a challenging and daunting place, which is why it is important for families to be aware of the risks and how to provide troubled teenagers with the support they need to get back on track.
