Research on the Psychological Impact of the Policy Practice of Preventing Minors from Indulging in Online Games in China

Abstract

With the expansion of online games, there is a relatively more severe issue involving minors excessive use of games. To this end, the Chinese government has issued several policy initiatives that are intended to stop minors from getting hooked on online games. This study aims to examine the psychological consequences of these policy practices on children. Through literature review, and case study, the changes in minors mental health status before and after the implementation of the policy were assessed, and the role of family, school and social environment in the implementation of the policy was also examined. This research identified that these policies have successfully limited the overuse of online games among minors to a certain extent but at the same time, it has introduced new psychological issues like anxiety and social isolation among the young people. Also, the issues that parents and educators encounter in the process of policy execution are also worth considering. Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations, such as introducing flexible time limits and regular review of the policy, are made in order to enhance policy implementation towards the improvement of the mental health of minors.