When asked what they do with their free time online, 91% of Gen Z boys report they regularly play video games online. 91% of those who play do so with others rather than alone, and 90% play with others they know in person. This makes online gaming an important part of teen boys’ social lives. When asked about their social gaming lives, some responses included:
- “It’s given me an opportunity to talk to and really get to know a friend that I wouldn’t have talked to much any other way.” -14 year old
- “I’ve made many friends, and I can use it as an outlet to express myself and talk with my friends.” -16 year old
In the same survey, boys admitted that being always connected online increases their worries about belonging and concerns for exclusion. Research shows that fear of missing out (FOMO) – along with feelings of dissatisfaction and sleep disturbance – is correlated with high use of private social media platforms such as messaging apps. The same correlations are not present with use of public platforms like video streaming and online gaming. Read more about the research from Next Gen Men.
Researchers’ recommendations for parents: “Parents should seek a balance between ensuring that their boys stay safe online and respecting their autonomy and privacy. Thoughtful and nonjudgmental conversation will always outweigh control and surveillance in supporting boys’ positive development.”