Majority of parents say they limit children’s access to Mature-rated video games

(May 5th, 2005)

(NEW YORK) – A majority of America’s parents say they “never” allow their children to play M (Mature) rated computer and video games, according to a recent survey conducted by Peter D. Hart Research Associates commissioned by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). The M (Mature) rating is assigned by the ESRB to indicate that a game may be suitable for ages 17 and older.

“This study confirms that parents are actively making informed decisions about the games their children play,” said Patricia Vance, ESRB President. “We are gratified that the rating tools we provide are helping parents regulate their kids’ media diets appropriately.”

According to the nation-wide telephone survey of 500 parents of children age three to seventeen, 53% of parents say they “never” allow their kids to play M-rated games, an additional 37% say they “sometimes allow” their children to play M-rated games and 8% said they “generally allow” their children to play M-rated games. Parents of children under the age of 13 are almost twice as likely to “never” allow their children to play an M-rated game.

Click here to read more about this survey.