Violence In Video Games   by Erin Sims, Bountiful, Utah   Dec06

Does violence in video games lead to violent behavior in children and teenagers? A lot of research has been done on this subject but it is still a controversial topic of debate. Violent games make up more than 80% of the best sellers and the most aggressive and violent games have always been the most popular (Gale).

Many agree that violence in video games increases aggressive behavior, thoughts, and feelings in the players. The same thing has been said about many violent television shows, comic books, music, and movies, but the difference is video games are interactive (Anderson). Violent games have been called "murder simulators" and are said to train kids in the use of weapons and desensitize them to the idea of death and suffering, as well as teaching them to like killing (Wikipedia). Many attempts at restricting these games have been made. A bill was almost passed in 2002 that would have banned the sale of "adult" games to minors. Many countries have banned the advertisement of certain violent games altogether. For example, Germany has banned more than 370 games since 1984 (Gale). Studies have shown that children who play violent games and watch violent televisions shows are more likely to be more aggressive toward other children and some people are afraid this behavior will continue when they are adults (Wikipedia).

On the other hand, others argue that the games do not necessarily cause violence. Many people who enjoy playing violent games are not violent people themselves. They believe that the games are just entertainment and understand they are not real (Gale). They also say that people should be responsible for what they do instead of blaming real-life violence on a game. Many say that video games can increase children’s social interaction since many games are multi-player (Wikipedia). Some researchers also think that video games can help develop teamwork, leadership, and problem solving skills. In 2005 the first long-term study of the effects of video games was done. It showed that extensive exposure to a highly violent game did not cause any real-world aggression in the gamers. The study was done only with one type of game and the researchers did admit that certain types of games may affect the players more than others (Lynn). One of the mistakes people make is to assume that video games are only made for children. Most modern games are made for 18-30 year old males. Children actually only represent a small part of the game market. The truth is that the majority of game players are adults (Wikipedia).

The influence of violent video games on a person’s behavior depends on many things, but most of all the personality of the individual. Some people have personalities that are just more prone to aggressive behavior. I have played violent games and they can be exciting and fun. But it’s just a game. I don’t feel any more violent or aggressive after playing a game than before. It’s not as simple as some believe. You cannot blame violence in video games alone for increased violent behavior in young people.

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