Steam and Epic Games May Contribute to Gaming Addiction Among Teens
I would like to express my serious concerns to the Ministry of Family and Social Services regarding the effects of the digital gaming platforms Steam and Epic Games, which operate in our country, on children and young people. I believe that the content offered on these platforms is not adequately monitored, and that systems which encourage gaming addiction among young people are widespread.
As a teacher, I have observed that many of my students between the ages of 14 and 18 are spending excessive amounts of time playing games on these platforms. As a result, I have noticed a clear decline in their academic performance and a growing lack of interest in school and their studies. Many young people spend a significant portion of their free time playing these games, which negatively affects their academic focus and motivation.
Despite the fact that platforms like Steam and Epic Games contain content and mechanisms that can push young people toward gaming addiction, I believe that oversight and regulatory measures in this area are insufficient in our country. For this reason, I request that the psychological and moral effects of these platforms on children and young people be thoroughly examined by experts, and that stricter measures be taken if necessary, including restricting access to these platforms or shutting them down entirely.
