Girls and Video Games

Boys and video games—they are a perfect match in marketers minds, which is why it’s little surprise that most video game manufacturers don’t offer as wide of a selection of video games to girls as they do boys. 

If you have a daughter who enjoys playing video games you know how difficult it can be to find quality selections that don’t promote stereotypical interests such as fashion and make up.  It’s much easier to find new video games if your daughter is interested in violent shoot ‘em up type games or ones that feature male dominated sports such as football, boxing and baseball. 

So what’s a parent to do?

Child psychologists discourage parents from banning girls from playing video games.  Rather, they recommend getting involved in the process.  For example, if your daughter shows a high level of interest in video games, consider choosing some together.  Experts suggest looking for creative games that engage your daughter’s problem-solving and strategic skills.  It’s also helpful to look for video games that involve interaction with others and encourage cooperative play.  Experts say parents should stray from video games that contain gender stereotypes and instead focus on finding games that appeal to their daughter’s hobbies. 

Other ways to support your daughter’s interest in video gaming include making sure she has equal access to the computer and video game console at your home (this is particularly relevant if you have video game obsessed sons in your household).  In addition, experts suggest you have your daughter invite other girls over to play games.  If not enough of her friends are interested, then make time and play video games with your daughter yourself.  Other suggestions include enrolling your daughter in a girls-only computer camp or computer class so she has the chance to interact with other girls who share her interest in video games.

See Also:

Video Game Tips for Parents
Why You Should Consider Banning Video Games from Your Home