In today's complex social and psychological landscape, families in Arab countries face unprecedented challenges. One pressing issue is the growing addiction to digital games among children and adolescents. This phenomenon is particularly concerning in Sudanese families living in Egypt due to the impact of war and displacement. The experience of displacement not only involves physical separation but also disrupts social, educational, and recreational routines. As a result, digital screens and games have become a daily refuge for many children.
The Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population has taken a proactive approach to address this issue. According to Minister of Health and Population Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, the ministry's awareness campaigns, such as "Health Podcast" with the slogan "Your Health is Happiness," emphasize the importance of balance rather than prohibition. This approach is rooted in scientific research and educational expertise. The goal is to promote healthy habits and prevent digital addiction among children.
From a psychological and counseling perspective, a restrictive approach to digital gaming can be counterproductive. Completely banning digital games can lead to resistance and even more attraction to virtual worlds, potentially causing behavioral problems such as stubbornness, violence, and isolation. Digital games, in themselves, are not inherently bad; they can be an interactive outlet for children to develop thinking and planning skills. However, problems arise when gaming dominates a child's daily life.
To effectively address digital addiction, a comprehensive approach is necessary, involving psychological understanding, family support, and social guidance. Key strategies include restructuring time management, balancing digital gaming with academic responsibilities, adequate sleep, and direct family interaction. By organizing daily routines, children feel more secure and responsible. Families should engage children in sports, social, and cultural activities to fill their free time and encourage social integration.
For families who have experienced displacement or exceptional circumstances, it is essential to recognize that excessive gaming may be a coping mechanism for underlying fears or unexpressed anxiety. Parents should initiate open and empathetic conversations with their children, seeking professional help if they notice signs of withdrawal or severe isolation. This approach fosters a supportive environment, encouraging children to express their feelings without fear of judgment.
Parental involvement in their children's gaming habits is crucial. By engaging with their children, understanding their gaming preferences, and having open discussions, parents can transform supervision from a restrictive measure into a bridge for communication and trust. This collaborative approach enables parents to guide their children in developing healthy relationships with digital technology.
The Egyptian Ministry of Health's message, "Balance, not prohibition," serves as a guiding principle for families to navigate the challenges of digital gaming. By promoting responsible technology use, families can ensure that digital tools enhance their children's skills without compromising their mental health and well-being. This shared responsibility among health institutions, educational authorities, and community leaders is essential for building a healthier future for society.
Key points
- The Egyptian Ministry of Health promotes a balanced approach to digital gaming to prevent addiction among children.
- A comprehensive strategy involving psychological understanding, family support, and social guidance is necessary to address digital addiction.
- Parental involvement and open communication are crucial in fostering healthy relationships between children and digital technology.
