INFLUENCE OF PARENTAL SUPERVISION ON NIGERIAN ADOLESCENTS’ EXPOSURE TO VIOLENT VIDEO GAMES

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study With the rapid evolution of digital technologies, video games have emerged as one of the most consumed forms of entertainment among adolescents worldwide. Violent video games, in partic ular, have gained popularity due to their engaging and competitive features. However, growing concerns regarding their potential psychological and behavioral effects have prompted extensive research (Anderson & Bushman, 2023). Adolescents are especially at risk because this stage marks a critical period of emotional and social development. Studies suggest that exposure to violent video game content can increase aggressive tendencies, reduce empathy, and promote desensitization to violence (Ferguson, 2022). Games that include violent content such as combat and shooting are particularly influential when played alone, as they may reinforce aggressive behavior. In Nigeria, advancements in technology and the increasing availability of internet-enabled devices have expanded access to such games, coinciding with a booming gaming industry (Oluwatayo et al., 2022). Effective parental supervision plays a key role in minimizing the harmful effects of these games by setting boundaries around screen time, discussing content, and using parental control features (Livingstone & Helsper, 2023). Nonetheless, several Nigerian families struggle with implementing these strategies due to socioeconomic constraints such as long working hours, limited digital literacy, and unawareness of video game content ratings. Cultural norms and traditional parenting approaches in Nigeria also influence how parents perceive and manage their children's engagement with violent video games. Some parents may lack the technological expertise to monitor their children’s activities effectively, while others may view gaming as a harmless pastime (Adebayo & Okonkwo, 2023). Additionally, peer influence plays a critical role in adolescents’ gaming behavior. Even when parental controls are in place, teenagers often bypass them through peer networks, gaming centers, or online platforms (Chukwu & Adeola, 2023). This highlights the need for comprehensive parental monitoring that includes communication and values-based guidance. While a substantial body of literature exists on media effects, few studies have specifically explored how parental monitoring influences Nigerian adolescents’ exposure to violent video games. Most existing research is based in Western contexts, where cultural and socioeconomic conditions differ significantly. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate how Nigerian parents manage their children's exposure to violent video games and the challenges they face in doing so. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Adolescence is a sensitive developmental stage marked by increased vulnerability to external influences, including media content such as violent video games. Research has indicated that frequent exposure to violent video games may lead to heightened aggression, emotional numbness to violence, and a reduction in empathetic responses among teens (Anderson & Bushman, 2023). In Nigeria, the issue of how effectively parents supervise their children's gaming habits is complicated by cultural, economic, and social factors. Despite widespread recognition of the harmful effects of violent video games on adolescent behavior, limited empirical studies have investigated how parental supervision can mitigate these effects among Nigerian adolescents. Active parental involvement—such as restricting screen time, monitoring game content, and promoting open dialogue—has been shown to curb problematic gaming behavior (Oluwatayo et al., 2022). However, many Nigerian parents struggle to engage in these practices due to economic challenges and demanding work schedules, increasing the risk of unsupervised exposure to violent content. Given the rising popularity of violent video games and their potential to influence the psychological and social development of Nigerian youth, this study aims to evaluate the extent and effectiveness of parental monitoring in managing adolescents’ exposure to such games. 1.3 Objectives of the Study The general objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of parental monitoring on adolescents’ exposure to violent video games in Nigeria. The specific objectives are to: i. Assess the extent of parental awareness regarding violent video games commonly played by Nigerian adolescents. ii. Identify socioeconomic factors influencing the degree of parental monitoring over adolescents’ access to violent video games. iii. Examine the strategies employed by parents to monitor and control access to violent video games. iv. Identify challenges hindering effective parental supervision of violent video game exposure among Nigerian adolescents. 1.4 Research Questions The following research questions guide the study: i. What is the extent of parental awareness about violent video games commonly played by Nigerian adolescents? ii. What socioeconomic factors affect parents’ ability to monitor adolescents’ access to violent video games? iii. What monitoring strategies do parents employ to control adolescents’ exposure to violent video games? iv. What barriers hinder effective parental supervision of violent video game usage among Nigerian adolescents? 1.5 Significance of the Study This study will be valuable to parents as it offers insight into practical and effective strategies for monitoring their children’s video game consumption, with the goal of reducing harmful effects linked to violent content. It emphasizes the critical role of parental involvement in shaping responsible gaming behavior among adolescents. For the academic community, the findings will enrich existing literature and serve as a reference for future research related to media influence, adolescent development, and parental supervision within the Nigerian context. 1.6 Scope of the Study This research focuses on evaluating the influence of parental monitoring on the exposure of Nigerian adolescents to violent video games. Specifically, it investigates levels of parental awareness, socioeconomic factors influencing monitoring practices, strategies used for supervision, and obstacles faced in effectively managing adolescent gaming habits. Geographically, the study is limited to parents residing in Akure North Local Government Area, Ondo State. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with any research endeavor, this study faced a few challenges: Time Constraint: The researcher had to manage the study alongside other academic responsibilities, limiting the time available for data collection and analysis. Financial Limitations: Expenses related to printing, literature review, and data gathering placed a financial strain on the researcher. Availability of Materials: There was limited access to existing literature on the specific topic within the Nigerian context, which restricted the scope of secondary data available for review. 1.8 Definition of Terms Parental Monitoring: The actions taken by parents to oversee, guide, and regulate their children's behavior, particularly concerning media use. Violent Video Games: Games that depict physical aggression, combat, or graphic violence, often involving themes of destruction or conflict. Adolescents: Individuals between the ages of 10 and 19, undergoing developmental changes that make them susceptible to environmental influences. Exposure: The degree to which adolescents engage with violent video game content, often measured by duration, frequency, and intensity of play. Parental Control Tools: Software or device-based features that help parents limit and monitor their children’s media and gaming activities. Socio-economic Factors: Variables such as income, education level, and employment that influence parental capacity to supervise effectively. Family Structure: The composition and dynamics of a family unit, including single-parent, dual-parent, or extended households, which can affect the level of parental supervision. Peer Pressure: The influence exerted by peers that may encourage adolescents to participate in behaviors, such as gaming, that contradict parental rules or values.