UNICEF – Parents should balance firm ethical rules and flexible judgment when guiding children’s gaming habits, Professor Daniel Johnson of the Australian Research Council’s Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child has advised.
Johnson told UNICEF Parenting that applying “mix-rules deontology”—a principle combining strict moral duties with context-sensitive choices—can help families protect children while recognising video games’ creative and social value.
“Sit down and let them teach you how to play,” Johnson said. “Let them be the expert. Once parents understand the game’s value, they can discuss limits from a stronger position.”
He explained that well-designed games nurture competence, autonomy and relatedness. “Video games, when designed well, satisfy key psychological needs, spark creativity and strengthen social connections,” he noted.
UNICEF highlighted research showing that challenging game levels stimulate brain activity comparable to complex cognitive tests. The organisation said exposure to manageable challenges builds resilience because “you learn to try, to fail and to try again.”
However, Johnson warned of dangers including toxic online communities, manipulative “dark patterns,” and excessive play when other life areas are unfulfilling. He urged parents to guide children through these risks instead of banning games outright.
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“The worst thing you could do is cut off the one place where a child’s needs are being met,” Johnson stressed. “Instead, help them find satisfaction in school, sports and friendships alongside gaming.”
Parents should also monitor online contacts. “Know who your child plays with,” Johnson advised. He recommended using in-game controls to block strangers and opening conversations about what information is safe to share.
UNICEF noted that scientific consensus finds no proven link between video games and real-world aggression. A 2020 review of 28 studies concluded that violent games have almost zero long-term effect on youth aggression.
Johnson said ethical parenting means blending consistent rules—such as limits on stranger interactions—with situational judgment. “Mix-rules deontology means holding firm moral lines while adapting to each child’s needs and context,” he explained.
He encouraged parents to model balanced technology use. “Share how you manage your own screen time,” he said. “That honesty helps children learn when to pause and reset.”
UNICEF’s guide concludes that by combining ethical principles with empathy and engagement, parents can create a positive gaming environment that protects children and supports their learning and relationships.