An exploration study of family functioning, parent-child relationship, and online game addiction among Malaysian young adolescents

This research study explores the profiles of young Malaysian online gamers between age 10 to 14 years old, focusing their gaming habits, lifestyles, and family environment. The study also examines parents’ views and challenges of parenting and managing online games in their children’s lives. The study revealed that healthy family functioning, especially mother-child relationship and family quality of life have significant influence on a child’s online gaming habits. The study findings may benefit governmental bodies and professional mental health practitioners to tailor more culturally and relatable prevention programs to help parents to support healthy gaming lifestyles among Malaysian young adolescents.