Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

#1258 - A Gaming Exec on How Your Kids Are Getting Hooked

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Episode notes

Is your child’s gaming habit harmless fun—or something more serious? In this episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share highlights from an eye-opening conversation with Scott Novis, a former Disney and Nintendo gaming executive. They discuss how modern games are designed to hook kids using sophisticated psychological techniques, what parents can do to support healthier habits, and the small shifts that make big differences in digital wellbeing.

KEY POINTS

  • The "Hooked Algorithm": Modern games use cues, unpredictable rewards, and psychological manipulation to drive compulsive use—especially among kids.
  • Addiction Is by Design: Notifications, in-game incentives, and persistent online features are engineered to steal attention and limit agency.
  • Console Games vs. Online Games: Games played offline on a console with a defined endpoint are less addictive than online, never-ending games.
  • Digital Detox Strategies: Removing screens, increasing nature time, and focusing on physical activity can reset unhealthy patterns.
  • Agency is the Key: Healthy gaming promotes a sense of control and mastery. Unhealthy games rob kids of their agency and drive compulsive behaviour.
  • Warning Signs: Sleep disturbances, sneaky screen use, emotional outbursts, or secretive behaviours may signal an unhealthy gaming relationship.
  • Parents Aren’t Immune: Even adults struggle with screen control—our own detox experiences can inform how we guide our kids.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Are these games reinforcing their sense of agency—or deleting it?”
 — Scott Novis

RESOURCES MENTIONED

  • Upcoming full interview with Scott Novis (drops Saturday)
  • Book: Stolen Focus by Johann Hari (referenced)
  • HappyFamilies.com.au – screen-time webinars and parenting resources

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

  1. Know the Hook: Understand how modern games manipulate attention and behaviour using psychological rewards.
  2. Audit the Games: Prioritise offline games with defined endings. Avoid always-on, online, in-app-reward-driven games.
  3. Turn Off Notifications: Disable alerts to reduce temptation and constant interruption.
  4. Create Tech-Free Routines: Set clear screen bedtimes and keep devices out of bedrooms.
  5. Watch for Warning Signs: Pay attention to sleep issues, irritability, or secretive behaviours.
  6. Detox Together: Plan regular family screen detoxes—go offline, get into nature, and rediscover agency.
  7. Talk Openly: Ask your kids how games make them feel—listen without judgement and create a collaborative plan for balance.

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