Video games have always been a talking point whenever violence acts come into the spotlight, but do they deserve it? Numerous studies have been done to answer the question, and both sides seem to have strong findings. Do video games cause violence or are they simply a scapegoat for other behavioral issues? Are there any other factors that might come into play?
Do Video Games Cause Violence?
When the first video game was invented in 1958, nobody thought that they would get as lifelike in this generation. Neither did anybody realize that they would be a form of entertainment. We only look at them whenever crimes happen.
We wondered if video games cause violence. It seems that no matter which side, you'll find studies that support different views. Videos games today are certainly a lot more realistic and violent than they were before. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are causing violent behavior.
The concern are the youths who play these games, it suggests that they influence on younger minds. We’re going to look at the arguments for either side of this debate. We will back them up with research and scientific studies that can be used for both viewpoints. That will give you information to decide whether video games can have the potential to cause violence.
A History of Violent Influences
Before we delve into video games and what impact they have on society, it’s important to look at other factors. Factors that might cause violence. We know that these electronic games aren’t the only potential influences that we have in society. There’s a long history of placing the blame on other things when it comes to finding the source of violence.
Music
In the 1980s, Tipper Gore (wife of Senator Al Gore) led a crusade against pop and rock music. The kind of music that features violent, immoral, or sexual lyrics. This eventually results into warning labels on music because they could have an influence on behavior, especially with younger listeners.
TV/Movies
As long as TV is around, it has been a factor for influencing bad behavior. Researchers have studied the correlation between tv shows and violent behavior in society for many years. Whether it’s real news about crime, aggressive and racy TV shows, or action and thriller movies that show blood and violence.
Comic Books
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, a huge campaign against comic books was formed. There was a belief that it influences violent behavior. These comic stories were about crime and horror, and they were a huge source of revenue during the Depression era. It was also known that these comic books could lead to addiction, immoral behavior, and aggression in children. Later it was found there was no link.
The Arguments Stating that Video Games Cause Violence
Schools see video games as a cause of violence. There are a few different studies that you might look at for conclusive evidence. Whenever a mass shooting occurs or horrible violent crime, it’s often easy to seek out blame in our pop culture. One of that is the violent video games being a popular hobby among youths. Often, the hobbies and interests of these violent individuals, you’ll find video games rank highly.
Another issue against video games is that it gives people a higher level of access to violence. It is higher than what they get in movies or music. Video games enable the players control characters and choose to do violent or aggressive acts. By this, it could lead to the desire to recreate the feeling in real life.
Additional Studies about Video Games causing Violence
Many studies have linked the playing of violent video games to social problems, particularly when looking at younger players. There are studies that conclude that high levels of video game exposure can link to people with violent criminal behavior. It also includes delinquency at school and a likelihood of fighting at school.
Although there are many studies which correlate these video games and violence in those who play them, it seems the more modern findings are leaning towards the other side. However, as video games tend to get more realistic and violent in nature, the need for researching further is far from over.
Studies That Find Video Game Don’t Cause Violence
Perhaps the popular studies are those with little correlation between video games and violence. It is more common but less published. However, there are arguments and studies that proves no correlation at all.
In 2011, the US Supreme Court handed down a rule that stated no direct link between video games and aggressive behavior. This is the biggest and most obvious report based on their review of countless studies and findings.
In addition, the American Psychological Association released a statement in 2017 that urged policymakers and the media to stop connecting mass shootings with video games. There was not enough evidence to suggest it was. With such revelations, we see less connection between the two.
Another study found a correlation between popular video games and violent crime. It showed that video games are a distraction from real life violence. It’s a way to release violent tendencies through the games played.
Tips for Parents When It Comes to Gaming and Children
A recent study showed that 90% of American children play video games, or at least have at some point in their lives. This just proves how hard it is to shield them from this form of entertainment, even if there are no definitive answers that connect them with aggressive or violent behavior. However, there are some things you can do to keep them safe when gaming:
Do Your Research
These days, it’s fairly easy to see how much violence is in a video game just by reading the label. There are also other resources you check with, like ESRB.org which lists in-depth information about the age recommendations and what content you’re likely to find in a game.
Limit Play Time on Violent Games
Many video games have violence in them these days and it would be near impossible to rule them all out completely if you were so inclined. Instead, place a time limit on these violent games and urge them to spend more time with the other titles.
Watch Your Child for Signs
Look for behavioral changes or worrying signs in your child after playing video games like irritability, aggression, or violence. Speak to them about why they are feeling or acting that way.
Play with Them
The best way to learn what a game is all about is to spend some time playing with them. Don’t crowd them as this is a hobby they like to do alone usually, but don’t be afraid to spend 10 minutes with them checking it all out.
Do Video Games Cause Violence: A Question That Needs More Research
Many believe that video games cause violence. There are several studies to back up either side. However, with limited experience in video games and the history of society, it’s likely not something that will get a definitive action.
If you’re a parent who has children who enjoy video games, there’s no need to instill a complete ban. Rather be mindful of what they’re playing or watching on TV. Keep track on any behavioral issues, often it's not just the video games that we need to be careful of.
Video games are a fun source of entertainment for many. People who play them will never engage in real life violent behavior. However, as we aim to do anything possible to reduce violence in our country and around the world, it’s important to continue the research on this possible correlation and then takes the necessary steps to rectify it.
