The Digital Playground: Impact of Electronic Games on the Health, Behavior, and Academic Performance of Children in Benghazi, Libya in 2025

Abstract

Advanced digital technologies, despite their many benefits, have raised growing concerns about adverse effects on children's physical health, mental well-being, and social development. Electronic games are one of the most widely used and potentially harmful forms of digital entertainment. This study aimed to assess the potential adverse effects of excessive electronic gaming on children's physical health, social behavior, sleep patterns, and academic performance in Benghazi, Libya. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 653 parents and relatives (aunts/uncles) of children aged 3-15 years. Data were collected using a Google Form questionnaire that covered demographics, gaming habits, parental control measures, observed effects on health, behavior, and schoolwork, as well as device types, internet connectivity, and technical protection measures. The majority of children played action or adventure games (58.2%) and fighting games (42.4%). About (34.6%) played games for more than 4 hours a day. Many parents admit that their children had health problems, like eye strain (30.9%), trouble sleeping (31.2%), and neck or back pain (14.5%). When it came to social behavior, 31.1% of parents noticed their child was more easily irritated or aggressive. The most common problems were homework delay (32.0%) and losing interest in studying (38.7%). It is recommended that that parents need more guidance on how to strike a healthier balance with technology for their children.