Need Advice: Son Spending Too Much Money and Time in Arcades

Dear Agony Aunt,

I am writing to seek your advice on a matter that has been causing me a great deal of concern. My 16-year-old son has developed an obsession with spending a significant amount of money playing games at the arcade. It seems like every time he has some spare cash, he heads straight to the arcade and spends it all on games.

I have tried talking to him about the importance of saving money and being responsible with his finances, but he doesn’t seem to listen. I’m worried that this obsession is affecting his studies and his overall well-being. I’m at a loss for what to do and would appreciate any advice you can offer.

Sincerely,
Concerned Mother

Dear Concerned Mother,

It’s understandable that you are worried about your son’s obsession with spending money at the arcade. It’s important to address this issue before it escalates further. Firstly, it might be helpful to have an open and honest conversation with your son about your concerns. Try to understand why he is so drawn to spending money on arcade games and express how it is impacting his studies and overall well-being.

Additionally, setting clear boundaries and limits on his spending can be beneficial. You could establish a set amount of money he is allowed to spend at the arcade each week, and encourage him to save a portion of his allowance or earnings for future expenses or savings. By involving him in the decision-making process, you can help him understand the value of money and the importance of budgeting.

Encouraging alternative activities that are both enjoyable and cost-effective can also help shift his focus away from the arcade. Suggesting hobbies or interests that he can pursue without spending excessive amounts of money can provide a healthy outlet for his energy and enthusiasm.

Lastly, if you feel that his obsession is significantly impacting his academic performance or mental well-being, seeking professional guidance from a counselor or therapist may be beneficial. They can help address any underlying issues that may be contributing to his behavior and provide the necessary support.

Remember, approaching this situation with empathy and understanding is crucial. By working together with your son and providing guidance, you can help him develop a healthier relationship with money and make more balanced choices.

Best of luck,
Agony Aunt