Parental View on Free Fire Game Impact on Children Mental Health and Effectiveness of Control Measures

Abstract

Aim of the Study: The primary purpose of this study was to better understand what parents think Free Fire is doing to their children's academic performance, emotional well-being and mental health. The study also took into account what the parents do to prevent or minimize the impact. This study was guided by two relevant theories. Social learning theory describes how children imitate behaviors they see, while parental mediation theory describes how parents can control their children's media consumption by keeping an eye on them and communicating with them.

Methodology: The study used purposive sampling and was qualitative in nature. Fifteen parents from Lahore were chosen whose children (between the ages of 8 and 16) frequently play Free Fire. The data collected from in-depth interviews were examined using thematic analysis to find significant trends and patterns in the observations of parents.

Findings: The result of this research provided significant wisdom for Parents, Educators, Game Developer and Especially to the Digital Rating Board. It encouraged responsible parenting and game design, which will eventually decrease the negative effects of children's internet gaming and promote the growth of healthier children in society.

Conclusion: The research highlights the growing role of gaming Free Fire in the perceptions of the parents regarding the daily activities of their children, their achievements in school, socialization, and their psychological well-being. More gaming is linked to increased irritability, aggressiveness, emotional dysregulation, sleeping problems, and lack of attachment to face-to-face social relationships. The parents and teachers continuously noted decline in academic performance and attention which adversely affected academic engagement and attention among children.