Bonus - Interview with a Middle School Boy About Video Games

Cast: Dr. Tara Egan, host
Dylan, middle school boy and Dr. Egan's son
In this bonus episode, Dr. Egan interviews Dylan, her middle-school aged son. Quarantine is still firmly in place, as COVID-19 cases in North and South Carolina are still rising at an alarming rate. Dylan reflects on his technology and video game usage during quarantine, noting that his time is limited, although time can be earned by having a productive day---participating in sports, finishing chores, and having a good attitude. He admits that he has a hard time entertaining himself without the use of technology but agrees that he has never been permitted to have unrestricted usage.
Dylan shares that he's been educated on how technology can "hurt your brain," and admits that his mood is impacted by gaming, especially if he loses. Winning video games feels good, but he realizes that he's never going to be good enough at Fortnite to "go pro," as his parents don't allot him enough time on the Xbox to get the practice he'd need.
Dr. Egan and Dylan discuss the role of video games and violence, noting that although kids who are more aggressive are attracted to violent video games, research hasn't determined causality. Dylan states that he does spend a lot of time looking forward to gaming, as winning tournaments is fun. Together, Dr. Egan and Dylan think of ideas that kids can do in lieu of video games. Dr. Egan asserts that as long as gaming is given as a choice, kids will choose it nearly every time. Because Dylan's time gaming is limited, he's compelled to plan his gaming time with friends. Because the Circle with Disney is used to limit Dylan's time gaming, he can't "sneak it" and accepts that once gaming time is over for the day, family time begins. Dylan is cheerful, pleasant, respectful, successful in school, and easy-going, so Dr. Egan feels pretty good about the gaming policies in their home.
As far as social media goes, Dylan isn't super interested in it. He says that some of his friends have abandoned gaming for social media and "talking to girls," but says that he's not motivated to follow strangers on Instagram just to have more followers. Lastly, Dylan offers some advice to other kids who love gaming and need help with avoiding frustration when it's time to put down the controller.
This episode is sponsored by Moe's Southwest Grill. Order a family taco kit for $34.99 and make family dinner fun.
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