Online Gaming: Exploring the Pros & Cons of Gaming

Abstract

Barnardos Online Safety Programme engaged with over 700 children from 3rd to 6th class, about the pros and cons of online gaming. Results show that while online gaming is a positive part of children’s lives, there is also a real need to improve safety functions. The survey was undertaken as a part of the Barnardos Online Safety Programme to help inform its work with children, parents and teachers. This September (2023) marks the final year of a five-year partnership between Google.org and Barnardos to deliver online safety workshops across the country reaching over 79,000 children to date. The focus groups and survey results indicate that there are both benefits and potential harms in children playing games online.