think, feel and act
Games are designed to be engaging, that’s what makes them fun! But games also use many techniques to influence behaviour and spending.
The good news? Once you understand how these techniques work, you can game with greater awareness and choice.
How gambling makes children think, feel & ACT
THINK
FEEL
ACT
This creates powerful engagement … which is great for gaming companies as it can lead to spending more time or money than intended.
Why children get hooked into gambling while playing
Some games are designed to get you hooked
1
They load games with “extras” you don’t actually need
2
Games push you to spend
3
They tap into your brain
4
It is easy to lose track of spending
5
The odds are stacked against you
6
How gambling features can make children act
Changes in behaviour around gaming can be a sign to check in and offer support.
- Gaming interferes with sleep, school, or time with friends
- Spending more than planned on in-game purchases
- Getting unusually upset when gaming time ends
- Thinking about games constantly throughout the day
These are common experiences that many families navigate successfully. If you notice several of these signs lasting more than a few weeks, it might be time to have a conversation about finding better balance.
Practical tools
Steps to reduce risk
Practical ways to setup parental controls and limits to help manage gambling-like features in games.
Conversation Guide
Get some tips on how to talk about gaming and gambling with your child.