Addiction to Screen Time Main Reason Children Do Not Have Video Game Access
Among parents of children under the age of 18 who do not have access to video games, the number-one reason their children do not have access is concern about addiction or screen time (33%). Lack of interest from the child (19%) and concerns about content (19%) follow. No time or opportunity receives 12%, and a similar proportion (11%) say the main reason is personal or family values. Five percent mention the cost of gaming devices or games.
Online Safety and Lack of Physical Activity Main Parental Concerns
Regardless of whether their kids play video games, the following are the main concerns parents have about video games:
- Online safety and interactions (20%)
- Lack of outdoor physical activity (18%)
- Screen time (15%)
- Violent or inappropriate content (13%)
- Gaming addiction (13%)
- Time away from other responsibilities (9%)
- Cost of games or in-app purchases is too high (5%)
- No concerns (6%)
Methodology
This survey of 2,575 adults was conducted June 13th through June 17th, 2025 by the Marist Poll. Adults 18 years of age and older residing in the United States were contacted through a multi-mode design: By text or online. Results for all adults (n=2,575) are statistically significant within ±2.1 percentage points. Results for parents with children under 18 (n=876) are statistically significant within ±3.7 percentage points. Results for parents with children under 18 who have access to video games (n=743) are statistically significant within ±4.0 percentage points. Results for parents with children under 18 who do not have access to video games (n=128) are statistically significant within ±9.6 percentage points.