For many kids (especially boys), life revolves around video games. "Wake me when it's the weekend" is the attitude of many kids who aren't interested in school, responsibility, or family bonding when there are video games to be played. 

Child and adolescent psychologist Dr. Richard Freed joins Arlene to explain why video games are so sticky. He breaks down persuasive design, the science tech companies use to keep kids on screens. You'll understand BJ Fogg's behavior formula and how games like Fortnite are built by psychologists and AI to exploit boys' instincts for hunting, fighting, and status.

Dr. Freed discusses why boys are falling behind academically and socially, and why family and school connection matter more than peer or online community.  You won't be left helpless against the gaming console. We'll share practical steps to delay the addicting power of smartphones, social media, and video games. Dr. Richard Freed is the author of several books including Better Than Real Life: How Silicon Valley's Secret Science of Persuasive Design is Stealing Childhood.  

02:15 – Why girls started self-harming at age 10-11 in the early 2000s

03:56 – Video games as "sophisticated psychological conditioning chambers"

06:12 – BJ Fogg's persuasive design formula: B = MAT (motivation, ability, triggers)

10:19 – Fortnite's lead designer and the "Skinner box" behind the game

13:25 – When limiting a teen's screen time becomes dangerous

20:11 – Debunking the myth that video games build real-world skills

30:06 – The three things kids need most: family, school, physical activity

36:04 – Where to find Dr. Freed and his book, Better Than Real Life

Connect with Dr. Richard Freed and grab a copy of Better than Real Life at RichardFreed.com  

Push back against persuasive design and read Arlene's new book, The Great Tech Reset: Reclaiming Real Life for Christian Families.  Free while supplies last from Summit Ministries TechResetBook.com 

More Resources from Arlene Pellicane:

SUBSCRIBE to Arlene's newsletter "What I'm Learning This Week" and get the checklist, 7 Warning Signs of Screen Overuse.

Check out Arlene's BOOKS including Parents Rising, Screen Kids, and Making Marriage Easier.

Follow Arlene on Instagram and/or Facebook

Watch the podcast on Arlene's YouTube Channel

How did Arlene's kids adapt to not having phones, video games or social media? Watch the free video, Screen Kids: In Their Own Words.

Have a question for Arlene to address on the podcast? Want to invite Arlene to speak to your group? Email speaking@arlenepellicane.com

Not sure about a smartphone for your child? Check out the Gabb Wireless phone for kids and teens (use the promo code ARLENE)