People say gaming and the games kids play, has no impact in their moods and personality. But I can honestly say, I see the difference every day of late. Now we have always had strict gaming limits. 2hrs weekdays, 4 on weekends
My child is ADHD, ODD, CONDUCT AND PTSD. They are crazy about fortnight. And every day, once time is up, it's melt down city... Constant fighting with friends during play..... Nasty to every one, right smart ass, wouldn't wish on any one.
Lately, they have been playing a 4wd'ing game..... They are a tottaly different kid. Sweet caring, playful. Hops off when told too, will excitedly tells you about what happened in the game. Total different energy from them.
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It doesn't natter what video games my kids play, they all make them angry, frustrated and intolerant if each other.
The games I play definitely change my attitude. I don’t play very often but if I as an adult notice changes in how I feel and act, how can it not be effecting our kids.
I’ve never heard anyone say that video games don’t affect children. Video games don’t create killers, but they definitely do affect personality even if it’s temporary.
Your child has special needs and probably shouldn’t be exposed to violent online multiplayer games.
I’d re assess what the child is playing and remove anything that is violent
Lots of new research coming out, it’s a new world for our kids that’s for sure. One suggestion is to set limits by task not by time, same as if you’re not finished composing an email you want to send it’s really hard to get off because of a time limit - letting them finish a task ie) complete a level or smaller goal makes more sense.
Yes, I always say to mine, what are you doing? How long do you think that will take?
If playing fotnite I say when you are finished that match. It works.
My 14 year old is an avid gamer.
I can honestly say that he isn't negatively affected by video games but he has a super chilled temperament so maybe that's why.
I can actually see why some people have these issues with Fortnite specifically though. I don't think the shooting/violence is the issue, I think it's because it's super overstimulating! It's very bright, it's fast paced, it's loud! There is so much going on that is a lot for our brains to process!
I watched my hubby play it for a few hours before we went to bed the other night. I had real trouble winding down, I felt this weird sensation of like nervous energy (which in fairness isn't completely unheard of for me as an anxiety sufferer but I can usually pinpoint a trigger), then I had the most restless night sleep because I had these vivid, nonsensical dreams all night.
The only thing I could put it down to was watching Fortnite.
So I definitely think moderation is key and for neurodiverse kids, perhaps not at all if It creates these problems.
I’m the same, have a chilled 14 year old boy who loves to game.