FCV102 Good News about Kids and Video Games, Dr. Rachel Kowert

When computer games are a problem for parents, it's usually because a child/teen has become obsessed and no longer shows interest in "family time." Even when family time isn't impacted, parents may have other questions like:

• "Is my child addicted to computer games?"

• "Are violent games encouraging my child to be violent and/or desensitizing him to violence?"

• "Is all this screen time hurting my child's social development?"

Dr. Rachel Kowert, psychologist, online gamer, and author of "A Parent's Guide to Video Games: The essential guide to understanding how video games impact your child's physical, social, and psychological well-being", makes a strong case for the positive impact of computer games and why parents may not need to worry about their kids' love of gaming.

About Dr. Rachel Kowert (@DrRachelKowert)

Dr. Kowert's research is primarily focused on the social impact of online games. This includes addressing the anecdotal claim that online game players are socially different/deficient as compared to offline or non-players, examining the impact of online video game play on offline friendship networks, and evaluating the tangible social benefits of online game play. Learn more at http://RKowert.com

About Annie Fox, M.Ed.

Annie is a parenting expert with 30+ years experience. She's been an online adviser to tweens, teens and parents since 1997. Her award-winning books include: "Teaching Kids to Be Good People", "The Girls Q&A Book on Friendship", and the groundbreaking Middle School Confidential™ book and app series. More information about Annie at: http://AnnieFox.com

About Family Confidential

Family Confidential: Secrets of Successful Parenting is a weekly podcast about 21st century parenting joys and challenges. Hosted by Annie Fox and produced by Electric Eggplant, Family Confidential provides practical parenting advice through down-to-earth interviews with parenting experts, educators, therapists, and entrepreneurs. These recorded discussions help parents strengthen family connections by providing tips, child-rearing insight and practical tools for guiding your kids through the tween years and beyond. http://FamilyConfidential.com