When it comes to the different types of moms, we often think of the classic stereotypes: the helicopter mom, the tiger mom, the soccer mom, and so on. Yet, there’s a group you might not be familiar with: gamer moms. Contrary to popular belief, they have been around for quite some time.
The term “gamer mom” might seem contradictory at first. When I envision a gamer, I picture my teenage sons, decked out with energy drinks and snacks, diving into their favorite games like Fortnite or Minecraft. They usually need a dozen calls to come upstairs for dinner before disappearing back into their gaming world. Yet, while I’ve always recognized my children as gamers, I never thought of myself in the same light. I only venture into the gaming zone for laundry, and I often dismiss my mobile phone games as mere distractions during my afternoon slumps. However, gaming encompasses various platforms, including mobile devices, which means I fit right in with the gamer mom community.
There’s a certain stigma around the idea of a gamer mom. Perhaps it’s the expectations of how we should spend our time—dusting shelves or planning dinner. Or maybe it’s the belief that gaming isn’t a suitable pastime for women. Despite this, a global study reveals that while 71% of moms play video games, less than half identify as “gamers.” This mislabeling perpetuates the outdated notion that gaming is a male-dominated realm, which is far from the truth.
In the U.S., an impressive 77% of gamer moms engage in gaming daily, with many dedicating over 10 hours weekly. Critics often dismiss this time as unproductive, but I argue that gamer moms have discovered a valuable, yet often overlooked, form of self-care.
Gamer Moms Understand the Importance of Relaxation
Self-care varies for everyone. While some may find solace in a bubble bath, I find mine in playing classic games. According to a study summarized by writer Elizabeth Scott, Ph.D., gaming serves as a coping mechanism for many, providing a necessary escape from daily stressors. As a fellow gamer mom, I can attest that gaming offers a much-needed reprieve from parenting challenges.
Kristin J., a fellow mom, shares, “I used to sneak away to read in the bathroom when things got chaotic. Now, I take a breather in my bedroom to play Candy Crush.” Video games can provide a calming escape, allowing us to step back from the daily hustle of parenting.
Gamer Moms Foster Connections
The stereotype of the gamer as a reclusive individual who neglects responsibilities is misleading. Many games today are designed to encourage social interaction. For instance, Jenna B., a mom of three, explains, “Our family juggles a hectic schedule, but whenever we’re home together, we gather around the Xbox. It’s our bonding time.”
Similarly, single mom Laura K. tries to play the same games as her kids, which sparks conversations about their shared interests. As highlighted in reports by Activision Blizzard Media, gaming serves as a valuable connection tool, strengthening relationships between moms and their children.
Gamer Moms Thrive Beyond Gaming
While gaming provides a means of bonding with our kids, it also offers personal benefits. Kristin J. notes that playing games helps re-energize her. “It’s not just about relaxation; it sparks my creativity and boosts my mood,” she says. Research suggests that gamer moms often feel more empowered and accomplished through their gaming experiences.
It’s crucial to remember that becoming a mom doesn’t erase one’s identity. Many gamer moms may not recognize that by picking up a controller or mobile device, they’re engaging in self-improvement.
Despite initial intentions to interview several gamer moms, I found that many shy away from the label. Perhaps they feel gaming doesn’t align with the expectations of motherhood, or they worry it might be perceived as a guilty pleasure. The stereotype of a basement-dwelling male gamer is outdated and fails to represent the diverse gaming audience today.
The reality is that a significant portion of moms, globally, embraces their identities as gamer moms.
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Summary
Gamer moms are an essential and often overlooked part of the gaming community, challenging stereotypes about who can be a gamer. They utilize gaming as a form of self-care, relaxation, and connection with their children, providing both a break from the stresses of parenting and an opportunity for personal growth. It’s time to recognize and celebrate the diverse identities within motherhood, including those of gamer moms.