Teenage boys in the UK are spending more hours playing video games than attending school, according to new research by Mumsnet. The study found that boys aged 15 to 17 spend an average of 34 hours per week gaming, compared to 32.5 hours in the classroom.
Overall, children's gaming time has risen to 20.4 hours per week, up from 16.8 hours last year. The survey of over 1,000 parents of seven- to 17-year-olds revealed that nearly eight in ten parents are worried about their child's screen time, and two-thirds fear gaming addiction.
Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts said parents, many with limited gaming experience, struggle to balance risks and benefits. The poll, conducted with youth charity Ygam, found 91% of parents support lessons on gaming harms, and 83% on gambling dangers, with most wanting this in primary school. However, only 40% said their children had received such education.
The study also highlighted exposure to gambling-like elements, with 52% of parents noting in-app purchases such as mystery boxes (33%) and loot boxes (30%). While 90% of parents set spending limits, those with older teens were less likely to do so.
Despite concerns, 96% of parents recognised gaming's benefits, including stress relief and improved digital literacy. Nearly one in four boys aged nine or ten aspire to become professional e-sport gamers, with two-thirds of parents supporting this career path.
