Closing the Gap Between Parental Anxiety and Gaming Reality

The report, titled Raising Good Gamers, argues that the public conversation around video games frequently overlooks the social benefits of play. With over 3 billion active players worldwide, gaming has evolved into a primary social outlet. Data indicates that 89% of U.S. teens play with others, and nearly half of players report that gaming helps them maintain connections with friends and family. Despite this, the dominant narrative remains focused on risks rather than the lived experience of families.

Dr. Rachel Kowert, Research Director at Games for Change, emphasizes that healthy gaming is defined by the quality of the experience and the relationships surrounding it, rather than just hours logged. To bridge the disconnect, the organization introduced the SPACE framework—a guide encouraging parents to show up with curiosity, play alongside their children, adjust for context, cultivate digital citizenship, and establish boundaries collaboratively.

This initiative aims to move families from conflict to conversation. Following successful pilot workshops where 82% of participants reported increased confidence in discussing gaming with their children, the program is expanding. Starting in September, Games for Change will host in-person workshops and webinars across the U.S. and the U.K. supported by Tencent Games. These resources, including customizable gaming agreements, are intended to provide parents with the practical tools necessary to integrate gaming into a positive family routine.