A majority of gamers in Russia, 58 percent, report criticism from loved ones because of their passion for video games. This finding comes from a study conducted by XYZ School, an online institution focused on game development and part of the Ultimate Education group, with results reviewed by Socialbites.ca. The study highlights how family dynamics shape attitudes toward gaming and how these perceptions influence players across different age groups.
The survey shows that parental figures are the most likely to voice disapproval, with 30 percent of respondents saying their parents criticize their hobby. Older relatives account for 16 percent of the reported reproaches, while friends and distant relatives contribute 7 percent. Only 5 percent of players say their partner or spouse is a source of criticism. These numbers underscore how close relationships can impact the perception of gaming as a pastime rather than a pastime as a profession or serious interest.
When asked about desired changes in how family views gaming, players expressed clear preferences. About 21 percent want their loved ones to approach gaming with neutrality, while 17 percent hope for a more favorable impression. A fifth of respondents wish relatives would not only enjoy gaming but also recognize its potential benefits. Ten percent would like to share the hobby with family members, transforming gaming from a solitary activity into a shared experience.
Despite mixed feelings, there is a notable desire for understanding. Roughly 29 percent of respondents said their loved ones do not even attempt to understand gaming. Another 24 percent reported some attempts that were not successful in bridging the gap. Yet nearly half of the players, 47 percent, observed a positive shift in attitude after family members took the time to understand the games and the communities around them. These shifts reflect a broader trend seen in North American gaming communities, where dialogue and exposure can reduce stigma and open doors to shared experiences across generations.
Looking at the broader context, this pattern resonates with players in Canada and the United States as well. In many households, gaming is a form of entertainment, creative expression, or even skill development. The study from XYZ School helps illuminate how families can navigate these conversations, ease concerns, and foster mutual interest. For many players, supportive environments—whether in person or online—contribute to a healthier gaming habit and can encourage responsible play, time management, and respectful discourse about the hobby. The findings emphasize the value of open communication, setting boundaries, and recognizing the social connections that gaming can offer when approached with understanding and balance.
As the gaming landscape evolves, the idea that a hobby should be a shared, respected part of family life gains traction. In the United States and Canada, educators and researchers increasingly advocate for media literacy that includes gaming literacy. Parents and guardians are encouraged to engage with their children about games, explore the skills involved, and consider how these activities intersect with education, teamwork, and problem solving. When families approach games as a legitimate avenue for creativity and learning, it becomes easier to celebrate progress, acknowledge accomplishments, and nurture a positive gaming culture within the home. The study from XYZ School thus serves as a practical reminder that dialogue rooted in curiosity can transform misunderstandings into connection and support for gamers of all ages.
In a broader sense, the findings reflect how perceptions of games shift when people experience them firsthand. They suggest that exposure to gameplay, discussion of game design, and participation in related communities can foster a more nuanced view. For players who feel isolated by criticism, there is a clear path: seek constructive conversations, invite family members to observe or join in, and demonstrate the skills, storytelling, and teamwork that modern games often require. Over time, shared experiences may turn skepticism into appreciation and even collaboration, rather than judgment.
Overall, the study by XYZ School highlights a meaningful opportunity for families to reconnect through gaming, turning a potential source of friction into a bridge for dialogue and shared enjoyment. It also reflects a growing recognition that games are more than just entertainment; they can be gateways to learning, creativity, and social bonding when approached with openness and respect.