The Crucial Role of Older Siblings and Friends in Online Gaming Safety
August 16, 2025 - 03:23
Recent research highlights the significant, yet often underestimated, influence of older siblings and friends in ensuring children's safety while engaging in online video games such as Roblox and Minecraft. As children increasingly immerse themselves in these virtual worlds, the presence of trusted peers can serve as a vital support system.
Older siblings often act as guides, helping younger players navigate the complexities of online interactions and teaching them about potential risks. Their experience can empower younger gamers to make safer choices, from managing privacy settings to recognizing inappropriate behavior. Friends, too, play a crucial role by fostering a sense of community and encouraging positive gaming experiences.
The study emphasizes that while parents are essential in monitoring gaming habits, the involvement of siblings and friends can enhance children's understanding of online safety. This collaborative approach not only strengthens bonds among peers but also equips children with the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape more securely.
MORE NEWS
February 21, 2026 - 00:41
Extremists are using video games as recruitment tools. The UN fights backA new front has opened in the global struggle against violent extremism, and it is taking place within the immersive worlds of online video games. Security experts report that extremist...
February 20, 2026 - 17:16
Leveling Up Together: How a Uptown Arcade Was Built by CommunityThe glow of arcade cabinets and the hum of gaming PCs in Uptown’s Battlebox Video Games represents more than just entertainment; it’s the culmination of a lifelong passion and community effort....
February 19, 2026 - 19:20
Video games are losing the "attention war" to gambling, porn, and crypto, according to industry reportA stark new industry analysis paints a concerning picture for the video game sector, suggesting it is steadily losing the `attention war` against competing digital entertainment and services. The...
February 19, 2026 - 01:58
‘Let us normalize delaying games’: DayZ creator says players ‘have the power’ to tell platform holders delays are okayIn a refreshing take on the industry`s often-criticized crunch culture, Dean `Rocket` Hall, the creator behind the survival classic DayZ, is advocating for a fundamental shift in perspective. He...