New Boy Scouts Video Game Achievement - Good for American Youth?

The Boy Scouts of America is an organization most famously known for teaching boys about camping, survival skills and the outdoors. However, as the cultural landscape of modern America changes, so does the focus of the Boy Scout programs. Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts are now able to earn a video games belt loop and academic pin. While this may seem in line with the current trends in society, it is logical to wonder whether this program can have a negative effect on program participants.

The Video Game Program

According to the Boy Scouts of America website, scouts can earn the video game belt loop by showing an understanding of how the video game rating systems work, creating a schedule that budgets time for game play, and learning to play a new game. The academic pin can be earned by completing five tasks in addition to the requirements for the belt loop.

Cons of the Boy Scouts Video Game Program

Early Introduction to Video Games

Since the Tiger Cubs accept members as young as seven years old, participation in the program could be the youngsters very first exposure to video games. Nowadays, most kids play some type of video game, but for those that don't, early exposure to video games could lead to bad habits such as sedentary lifestyles or excessive game play.

Skills that Lend Little to Personal Development

The Scouts' main focus is to teach young people useful life skills that will help them as the mature and become adults. However, unless you are planning to be a video game designer when you grow up, the program teaches very little that can help the scout's personal development.

Pros of the Boy Scout Video Game Program

Teaching how to Balance Gaming and Life

The program seems to have a strong emphasis on responsibility. One requirement for earning the video game achievement is to create a schedule that lets the scout balance schoolwork, home life, and free time. There is nothing wrong with kids playing video games, as long as, it is in moderation.

Understanding the Rating Systems

Video games are not "one age fits all". Depending on the age of the player, some games may not be appropriate. The scout earning the video game achievement is required to understand how each video game is rated and what rating is appropriate for them.

Source:
Boy Scouts of America - Video Game Achievement Guidelines