The effect of video games on family communication and interaction

Abstract

<p>This study examined the effect of video games on communication and interaction between participants and their family members. These variables were measured using an online survey derived from the Family Communication Scale, the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment, and the Anderson Video Game Questionnaire. A total of 480 18-year-old college students were recruited via email to complete the survey. Correlational and regression analyses revealed a significant negative relationship between the total amount of time an individual spent playing video games and the amount of parent communication and sibling communication. However, the relationship between video game usage and interaction with parents or siblings was not significant. A Chi-Square analysis revealed a significant difference in the type of games preferred by males and females, and indicated that males play more frequently than females.</p>