Ygam survey reveals a quarter of young boys interested in esports careers

A recent survey commissioned by Ygam and parental internet forum Mumsnet has revealed that 24% of boys aged nine and ten are interested in pursuing a career in esports.

The research conducted by the UK-based safeguarding charity draws on responses from over 1,000 parents of children aged between seven and seventeen.

In addition to revealing a significant interest in boys pursuing a career within the esports industry, the survey also reveals that 70% of parents would support their children looking to secure a role within the industry.

Parents cited the potential of building a career in a growing industry alongside the development of transferable skills as some of the factors that would determine whether they’d support their child’s career prospects. In contrast, other parents shared their concerns surrounding job security and a dislike of esports culture as reasons why they wouldn’t support an esports career.

“This year’s findings underline the central role gaming plays in young people’s daily lives,” said Helen Martin, Interim CEO of Ygam.

“It’s clear that many young people no longer view gaming solely as a hobby or social activity, but increasingly as an exciting career path with a growing range of opportunities as the industry continues to grow.”

Other notable insights from the survey include 96% of parents recognising the benefits that gaming brings to their children, highlighting its ability to encourage relaxation and develop transferable skills ranging from problem-solving to critical thinking.

In 2023, Ygam revealed its three-year strategy designed to prevent children and young people from experiencing harm generated through specific areas of gaming and gambling.

In April 2025, the charity launched an esports and gaming harm prevention programme, aiming to create a safer and more supportive gaming experience for young people by tackling topics ranging from embarking on an esports career and microtransactions.