Flag It Fast

 Just like there is a risk of bad things happening when playing physical sports inperson, there is a risk when playing video games online.

Online anonymity can embolden players of all ages to act in ways they wouldn’t in real life. Whether we ask for it or not, other players can exhibit harmful or malicious behavior. Things like bullying, harassment, and suspicious activities are real and are not to be ignored.

This might frighten you. And for good reason. We don’t want bad things to happen to our players. But yet, we love our kids and want them to do the things they enjoy.

But what should we do? Report it.

Reporting ensures that people are held accountable for their actions, reminding them that their behavior has consequences. This accountability encourages better conduct.

Blocking and reporting also ensures that all players don’t have to endure this type of behavior, reducing the stress or anxiety caused by toxicity, creating a safer online environment for everyone. By reporting, your player contributes to the removal of bad actors from the community.

Not only are they protecting themselves, but they are making things better for others. And that is a great thing to teach our kids.

Encourage your player to create and foster a culture that does not tolerate any form of malicious behavior. Guide them in making it clear that harmful behavior is unacceptable at any level.

But know that this is a lot like other stressful things in real life. It can be daunting and exhausting. Your support and encouragement will help them stay vigilant and consistently report to deter harmful behavior over time. It’s not a one-time action but a continuous commitment to maintaining a safe gaming environment.

For younger players who still haven’t grasped the repercussions of being reported, talk with them about reporting responsibly. Reporting is serious and shouldn’t be done just because they feel like it. Help them make sure that they are reporting for legit reasons. We don’t want them reporting willy-nilly.

From a faith-based perspective, the use of reporting and blocking tools aligns with biblical principles of justice and righteousness. It reflects the biblical principle of exposing and correcting wrongdoing. Reporting malicious behavior can be seen as an act of standing up for what is right. We read in Ephesians 5:11: Take no part in the fruitless works of darkness, but instead expose them.

Make the connection:

• Talk with your player about ways to create a culture that stands up for what is right by not tolerating malicious behavior.

We are #ForTheGamer and help players play with purpose and win for good.