AN INVESTIGATION INTO PARENTAL PERCEPTIONS OF VIOLENT VIDEO GAMES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON CHILDREN ACACDEMIC ACCHIEVEMENT IN NIGERIA

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1. Background of the study

The widespread popularity of video games as a kid's and teen's entertainment has drawn a lot of scholarly attention, particularly in light of the possible negative effects of violent video games on kids' behaviour and academic performance (Anderson & Dill, 2020). It is difficult for parents to regulate or keep an eye on their children's involvement in violent video games because they are readily available on a variety of platforms, including gaming consoles, personal computers, and mobile devices, in many nations, including Nigeria. Parents and educators are increasingly concerned about the potential behavioural and cognitive consequences of extended exposure to violent content as a result of this trend; many attribute a decline in academic attention to excessive gaming (Igwe et al., 2015). Social learning theory, which contends that children may pick up behaviours by watching and copying role models in their surroundings, including those seen in video games, may theoretically help explain the impact of violent video games on kids (Bandura, 1986 in Anderson & Bushman, 2021). This theory has been used to explain how children's attention may be drawn away from their academic goals as a result of repeated exposure to violent video games, which may normalise aggressive behaviours and attitudes (Anderson & Bushman, 2021). Additionally, theories of cognitive development highlight the impact of regular stimuli on kids' cognitive abilities, which might be hampered when focus is shifted from learning activities to violent or exciting games (Gentile & Anderson, 2015). The impact of video games on academic success have been the subject of conflicting research. According to some research, playing violent video games might desensitise kids to violence, which can lead to an increase in aggressive attitudes and actions that can damage relationships with others and divert attention from schoolwork (Anderson et al., 2020). Youngsters may also put playing video games ahead of studying, which might result in less time spent on education and lower academic accomplishment. According to a research by Gentile et al. (2015), excessive gaming was linked to poorer academic engagement and grades, indicating that gaming may disrupt students' study habits and ability to concentrate. On the other hand, some academics contend that playing video games might improve cognitive abilities including critical thinking, spatial awareness, and problem-solving; however, these benefits are often linked to instructional, non-violent games (Gee, 2018). In the Nigerian setting, sociological and economic variables exacerbate parental worries about video gaming. Due to easier access to digital gadgets brought about by Nigeria's growing technical infrastructure, kids are playing more violent video games (Igwe et al., 2015). However, compared to other locations, Nigerian parents' attitudes towards violent video games may be influenced differently by cultural beliefs, parental expectations, and economic level (Adeboye et al., 2021). While some Nigerian parents believe that violent video games lead to moral degradation and a decline in academic discipline, others might not have the knowledge or resources necessary to properly control their kids' gaming habits (Igwe et al., 2015). Parental interventions may differ depending on personal views and available resources, and many parents in Nigerian homes, where academic achievement is highly prized, may voice concerns about the possibility that violent games might interfere with academic performance (Adeboye et al., 2021). Therefore, the reseracher aims to investigate parental perceptions of violent video games and their effects on children acacdemic acchievement in Nigeria.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Because of the possible effects on children's academic performance and general development, the growing popularity of violent video games in Nigeria has raised concerns among parents, educators, and legislators. Several studies show that children's cognitive and social behaviours can be impacted by violent media exposure, which may have an indirect effect on their academic performance (Gentile, 2021). For example, playing video games frequently interferes with study time, which may result in a loss of academic attention and performance (Chiu et al., 2015). Notwithstanding these observations, little is known about how Nigerian parents see the impact of violent video games on their kids' academic performance and whether or not these views are consistent with real academic outcomes. Furthermore, compared to other locations, Nigeria may have different parental attitudes towards violent video games due to cultural characteristics and other socioeconomic issues, such as disparities in access to technology and different parental monitoring techniques (Igwe et al., 2014). Given that parents are crucial in regulating their children's gaming habits and promoting their academic achievement, it is imperative to look at these perspectives and how they relate to kids' academic achievement. Hence, the study aims to investigate parental perceptions of violent video games and their effects on children acacdemic acchievement in Nigeria.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to investigate parental perceptions of violent video games and their effects on children acacdemic acchievement in Nigeria. The specific objectives is as follows

1. To assess the extent to which Nigerian parents are aware of the effects of violent video games on academic achievement of their children.

2. To assess parental perceptions on the reason for children indulgence in violent video games

3. To assess parental perceptions on the effect of violent video games on children acacdemic acchievement in Nigeria

4. To proffer recommendation aimed to mitigate perceived negative effects of violent video games on children’s academic achievement.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to guide the study

1. What is the extent to which Nigerian parents are aware of the effects of violent video games on academic achievement of their children?

2. What are parents perceptions on the reason for children indulgence in violent video games?

3. What are parents perceptions on the effect of violent video games on children acacdemic acchievement in Nigeria?

4. What are the profferd recommendation aimed to mitigate perceived negative effects of violent video games on children’s academic achievement?

1.5 Significance of the study

Findings of the study will be of benefit to Policymakers by gaining evidence-based knowledge to support policies that address the exposure of children to violent video games. Findings from this research can guide policies or interventions aimed at raising public awareness about responsible gaming and the potential risks associated with violent game content. This can also lead to age-appropriate content regulations to protect children from adverse developmental influences.

Findings of the study will also be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to existing literature, add to library resources and serve as a guide to future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focus on the parental perceptions of violent video games and their effects on children acacdemic acchievement in Nigeria. Empirically, the study will assess the extent to which Nigerian parents are aware of the effects of violent video games on academic achievement of their children, assess parental perceptions on the reason for children indulgence in violent video games, assess parental perceptions on the effect of violent video games on children acacdemic acchievement in Nigeria and proffer recommendation aimed to mitigate perceived negative effects of violent video games on children’s academic achievement.

Geographically, the study will be delimited to parents in Ika South LGA. Delta State

1.7 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:

Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.

Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.

Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.

1.8 Definition of terms

Parental Perceptions: The beliefs, attitudes, and understandings held by parents regarding certain subjects or issues. In this study, it refers to how Nigerian parents perceive the influence of violent video games on their children’s behavior and academic achievement.

Violent Video Games: Digital games that involve scenarios with graphic violence, aggressive actions, or combative objectives. These games often depict conflict, shooting, fighting, and other aggressive behaviors as central themes, which may impact players' social and behavioral tendencies.

Academic Achievement: The measurable performance of a student in their studies, often indicated by grades, test scores, and overall school performance. In this study, academic achievement refers to children’s educational outcomes, which may be influenced by exposure to violent video games.

Children: Individuals typically within the age range of 6 to 18 years old, who are in their primary or secondary school years. This study focuses on children within this age range as they are more likely to be affected by both video game content and parental guidance.

Exposure: The amount of time and frequency with which children interact with violent video games. This includes the duration and intensity of engagement, which could influence behavioral and cognitive outcomes.

Behavioral Impact: The effects of violent video games on children’s conduct, including aggression, social interactions, and responsiveness to others. Behavioral impact in this study refers to how violent game content may affect children's attitudes and behaviors both inside and outside the classroom.

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