Do violent video games cause behavior problems? |
I know they do from personal experience.
One of my clients played a Game called Driver 3. This caused her to become more violent to her family. Ditching school and going out smoking were also behaviors that started after playing this game. I do think games can cause a difference in a child's behavior, and I think there needs to be some regulations put in place.
Posted by: AnonymousIt does!
Statistics show that after only 10 minutes of playing a violent video game your mind becomes desensitized to the fact that you are killing someone. Although it seems like nothing when you are playing these games, some kids play them so often that it is the only thing that they think about. Even if it is just a character in a game it become as easy as pie to pull that trigger.
Posted by: AnonymousSchool shootings for example.
Yes, school shootings are most likely from video games, it has been proven that the people who open fire are gamers or are addicted to playing violent games. It fuels their minds and urges or gives them the idea telling the mind that it is okay to do things like that. If you have all that exposure to computerized violence and they go on rampages thinking "If I see this on TV, it's okay for ME to do as a person". It is exactly how that mind works.
Posted by: kaleyjuneViolent TV shows contain many bad scenes which make the children easily commit crimes
In facts, many of the children are seriously impacted by violent shows which often broadcasted on TV. Violent TV shows programs are really a serious problem, and has powerful impact in their behavior to grow up evil in the future. Children are in the process of learning and growing up. If, the children watch such kind of programs they may learn it, and will attempt to implement in their life because they can’t match goodness from badness. The children are not aware of consequences and take it easy.
Posted by: AnonymousChildren think of the main characters as role models.
Some kids think of the role model of video games as role models. Based on the character the child could copy everything the he/she does. If the game is violent the child could run around the house acting crazy and pretending to harm other, the main character could also cuss. Bad words from the main character is also what the child copies. My little bro accidentally cusses at time because he hears it on the video games. Sometimes the child can even copy exactly what the main character says is the story.
Posted by: AnonymousYes because studies have shown if you play violent video games you have bad behavior.
I agree with this because every time you play a violent video game, you change. You keep talking about and don't stop. At school your education grades will fall because you keep wanting to play it and don't bother paying attention. The graphics are so real that it seems you are there and holding the remote like a real gun. Also you get points when you kill a person on COD and then you might want to get real life points. You get so much into the game that you want to play it so much to you will do anything to try and shoot a real gun.
Posted by: Anonymousbad video games!
yes because all those crimes that u see on tv about how kids are killing their parents cause they took their console away or one of the games that they like to play and then they just snap on their parents and its all because of those video games that have crimes and killing and stuff!
Posted by: AnonymousDeath caused by this.
Video games do have a huge effect on many unsuspecting kids. The power a character possesses makes him super strong and he starts killing people. The poor little kid will envy his power and try to be like him/her. Therefore, the little kid ending up killing someone or hurting someone badly.
Posted by: AnonymousI'm on the fence with this topic. I'm not for nor against it.
Has anyone ever thought of these "behavior problems" that are plaguing kids/teens being caused by puberty?
Now, I understand that the majority of people on the right side are teens and left side are parents; We have all went through this teen phase in our lives and have had "behavior problems". Behavior problems being an out lash to a friend and/or a parent.
I am 21 years of age and just fresh out of my teen years; Yes, I have had "behavior problems" and no, it was not because of the way my parents raised me or the violent video games that I played. These problems for me was caused by puberty.
When I became a teen, I felt a sense of rebellion and the freedom to do what I wanted. I became moody and out lashed at people for no reason. It wasn't because of these violent video games; If anything, video games kept me from doing anything I would of regretted as I used them as a scapegoat.
For the parents reading this.
It isn't a video game that is causing "Behavior Problems". It's just a phase that your kids are going through. We have all been down that same path before.
-NolanPosted by: AnonymousI believe that violent video games do cause behavior problems.
Kids go crazy when they lose especially when you need to kill someone, so if you die on games like Black Ops kids say DIE DIE DIE! Other games that are not violent, kids do not say DIE. They think like humans and think problems through. Smart kids don't play violent video games.
Posted by: AnonymousDo video games promote violence?
People become desensitized to violence by the constant exposure to violent video games. There becomes a disconnect with violent acts and the reality of the destruction, death, and heartbreak because the human piece is never seen or experienced on the video games. It would be my guess---I haven't heard this yet---that the Connecticut shooter was an avid gamer.
Posted by: Anonymousgame rating
It is true that, over the years video games have gotten increasingly violent, showing blood and gore to amuse the players. But, to avoid any problems, they give the game a RATING to tell the players whether they can play it or not. that way, games like Call of Duty will only be played by young adults or older, but you still see a 9-year old playing it too, and chances are that they will have problems down the line. This is why people should look at the age rating and listen to it, because if they don't, behavior problems will occur.
Posted by: AnonymousThey are detrimental to teens' minds and society.
Are the murders of innocent committed because some kids play games? Teenagers should not be permitted to buy violent video games due to the fact that it corrupts their minds and causes them to act out in negative ways. Many depressing incidents have happened in the past, and to stop them from happening in the future, we must take action.
Teenagers spend their free time playing violent video games. Research shows that boys play 13 hours of them a week and girls tend to play 5. Even if we may not realize it, it is detrimental to their minds and society. Since they were little, kids have been exposed to aggressive behavior in the games that they play. When this sadistic image of life is placed in their minds over and over again, it desensitizes them.
When these kids become teenagers, they are not sensitive to the world around them. Their minds are corrupted by the rubbish that they used to occupy themselves in when they were younger. In the Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting, about two dozen innocent children were mercilessly murdered by a young man in his twenties. Why? Because the shooter’s mind had been corrupted so much that his psychology had been negatively affected.
We should put an end to this damaging behavior. By letting our children play violent video games, we are destroying their minds. We should protect them, and protect our society. By banning the sale of aggressive games, we are helping our world.Posted by: AnonymousYes
I don't think that all video games can cause violent behavior or even an acceptence to violence. I think certain games can cause that type of thinking or behavior. My brothers play shooting cames and stuff all the time. They are not violent at all! They will agree, though, that certain games could cause certain behavior in certain people. There are some action or fighting games out there that are completely harmless. Others, are just sickening! Getting points for beating a prostitute to death or killing people in the most inhumane way, should not be fun! That is utterly disturbing and upsetting and is COMPLETELY demented!!! Also, even in a virtual world, killing people as a way to releave stress, is still not healthy. Jogging is a way to relieve stress. Brutally stabbing someone on a video game, to relieve stress, is definitely concerning. There is something seriously wrong with you if killing someone calms you and makes you feel better. Just because its on a game and it's not really real, it still definitely reveals what is tasteful to the child, which I honestly find very disturbing.
Posted by: Lyss.MYes they can.
Sometimes people can go overboard on the whole... Shooting game things, and it can affect their behaviors in a bad way. That is why I believe that violent video games can have negative affects on today's minds. So please be careful in what you believe is violent. Please be safe.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games lead to aggression.
I think it's yes because just look at what people turned out to be like when they played violent video games! I'm a seventh grader from Citrus Springs Middle School. I've read an article in language arts and it specifically said that they tested a few students and they played for like 20 minutes for three consecutive days and each day it gets more and more worse. I think this because violent games do change you.
Posted by: Anonymoussome people can be so stupid!!
Do people not even watch the news?!?!?!? I mean come on look at the suspect who killed all of those little kids at Sandy Hook Elementary!!! That suspect might even of played violent games!! I have a little brother and before he started playing violent video games he was the sweetest brother.. But now that he has played those types of games.. He has begun to slap people in the face, kick them, and many other things. He is only 11 years old and he is playing 17 and older games!!!! YOU CANNOT TELL ME THAT VIOLENT GAMES DO NOT CAUSE BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS!!!!! TRY ME!!!!
Posted by: jane22Yes they do cause behavior problems, and I'll provide examples.
Here are some examples
•A 13-year old boy jumped from the building’s 24th floor and committed suicide after playing Warcraft III for 36 hours straight. •A teenager went on a rampage and killed three men, two of them police officers, after months of playing Grand Theft Auto. •A 17-year-old male killed his mother and wounded his father after they took Halo 3 away from him. •A 15-year old ran away from home after his parents took his Xbox console away. His dead body was found almost a month after. •Two kids murdered 13 and wounded 23 before turning the gun on themselves acting out their own version Doom.Posted by: AnonymousYes, Violent video games are bad for behavior.
While people are playing video games, you're putting them in a violent and brutal environment. If you take video game statistics and put them into real life, it's pretty scary.
For example,
• The lastest Black Ops game has had over 916 million hours played which is a little more than 104,000 years
• 83,000 people die every minute in the game which means in six days, there would be no one left in the world.
• There has been over 106 billion deaths in Black Ops 2 that’s equivlent to 98% of humans that have ever exsisted.
• In the comparison that the United States pays 300 million dollars a day in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, one hour of play on Black Ops 2 costs 1,362,086,600 dollars.
• The Us Army uses 1.5 billion rounds every year and Black Ops 2 uses 1.5 billion rounds in 17 hours.
While people are playing video games they are not thinking about the damage they are causing, and their behavior totally changes. People defend violent video games and identify them as "stress relievers". They are not stress relievers at all. If people are so into the game they are playing, they will feel like it is real life. I have seen my cousins played violent video games and if they ever lost they freaked out. They also think of the main characters as role models and want to be just like them. And its's petheticPosted by: AnonymousCauses aggression & violence.
I believe that playing violent video games do cause aggressiveness in teens and children and can lead to violence on a larger scale. People may think that there is no affect because the results are not instantaneously, they build up over time. Also, people can become verbally violent and aggressive and think violent thoughts as well as be physically aggressive. There have been studies on this topic as well. But I leave you all who disagree with one question: Do we really need proof? Or is it just common sense? It took YEARS to figure out that smoking was extremely harmful for your health. It cost us countless lives and people have developed diseases. Do we really have to wait until 5 people die in a car accident to set up a cross walk and stop light? As final proof?
Posted by: AnonymousThey are filled with killing people.
This will cause children to want to go around with their friends and fake shoot, stab, and hurt each other. That has an increased risk of being something that could be violent and illegal. I know from my own experience that kids like to fake shoot and kill each other, though it's just for 'fun' here. It could lead to something else.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent videa games cause rudeness, disrespect
I have 3 adult sons. 2 play Call of Duty for several hours daily. They use to be kind and caring to each other and me. They are now rude and treat me disrespectfully. To the point that I do not want to spend any time around them. One is married with children the other is single. The one with children overly punishes his kids and treats his wife as bad as he treats me. My other son who does not play Call of Duty is still as kind and considerate of me as he has always been. I never thought a video game could change a person that much. It is like they have both come back from a horrilbe war.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, I think violent video games will cause behavior problems.
By playing violent on-line games, children will become more violent and even won't care about the outside world. This problem has also lead to many conflict between parents and children. Parents can help to prevent this by limiting the time amount on children, not only to help your child but also bring a peaceful society to the world!
Posted by: AnonymousPersonality Change.
I am a parent. My 15 year old son was an outstanding baseball player for the last 6 years. A highly regarded pitcher in the KC area. Played over a 100 games a year over that period.. Devoted himself to the game of baseball. I bought him a PS3 2 years ago. He liked the sports games. Baseball, basketball and football. A year ago I bought him Call of Duty Black Ops as his friends all played it. At first it was ok, but then he started to play it after school every day and on weekends. Lost interest in baseball and quit training. First time since coach pitch he did not play Fall Baseball. Says he does not want to play baseball in High School. High School coach even got mad at me for not making him go out. Whenever he gets in trouble, he throws an out of control fit. I take the game away for a while, and he falls in to a depression and cries. He is constantly getting physical with his younger brother. The good part of this young man is getting smaller and smaller. It does not take a PHD to see that since he started playing COD Balck Ops, his personality has changed drastically. He went from a start athlete, to someone I hardly know. We used to spend so much time together, now he drops his shoulders and gets mad if I ask him to do something. These games make kids insensitive and lazy.
Posted by: FedupdadVideo games DO cause problems!
Violent video games cause problems for young kids. It corrupts their young minds with the guns, alcohol, grenades, blood, & grand theft. Remember the shooting that happened at the elementary school? It was caused by violent video games. The shooter played violent games which corrupted his mind, & that's why he shot the kids & teachers.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games can cause violence in real life.
My cousins plays Black Ops, and they keep it under control, but others that are stupid did shoot outs at school and killed students and teachers because they played violent video games that gave them that image of shooting people in real life. I think violent video games are insane and I would never play them at all.
Posted by: AnonymousThe dark side of violent video games.
Violent games teach us to kill others and in real life if you kill someone, they don't come back to life like they do in games. If your child goes around with a knife and stabbing people because of his addictive situation, you would take the blame for murder because it's your responsibility that your child is killing others.
Posted by: AnonymousViolence is communicable
Columbine high school and the video game doom. Big big example of how video games helped inspire violence. As much as I love cod and battlefield, I did a thesis paper in high school and what I've found has changed the way I look at my gaming habits. I personally feel less sensitive to violence because of how much I've been exposed to. You can't blame people for these problems because not everyone understands the correlations. Education, not finger-pointing, is what needs to be done more.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's causing deaths of our family and friends.
I can not bear to see little children to play these games that effect their lives and others. Call of duty, modern warfare, and god of war and other video games are what need to be banned not madden not dance dance revolution or any of those fun loving games.
Posted by: Anonymousyes they do
I have seen people get very mad playing games like Call of Duty when their characters die. As a result, some people start raging in the game and then they get banned from the live community. Then they call Activition, Treyarch, or whoever the game maker is and make fools of themselves on the phone. Sometimes they get so mad they break their PS3 or XBOX. So that's why I think YES.
Posted by: AnonymousSome games do affect behavior.
My mom once told me that a kid played Call of Duty Zombies so much that he killed his dog. Then he buried it in his backyard and waited until it turned into a zombie dog, but it never ever never did. That is very creepy, and that is my final thing.
Posted by: AnonymousThey teach kids how to shoot and be violent.
Kids who play video games become attached to the games. they learn how to shoot a gun and be violent. also the piont of violent videogames is to kill people. these kids are very likely to become killers. these kids need better supervision. their parents obivoulsy have no selfrespect and care for thier children.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's your brain's fault.
Your brain can't differentiate between reality and first person shooter games. Visualization is a powerful tool used by all pro athletes to "trick" their brain into thinking it has perfected a task. The body need only follow the brain when actual execution is required. It's no different for first person game experiences. Sorry, that's just the way your brain works.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, violent video games affect children the most.
Violent video games do cause behavior problems. Children when they are young, cannot distinguish fantasy from reality, so if they watch violent video games, listen to violent music, read violent books or watch violent movies they can be effected by believing violence is a regular occurrence. As they grow older, kids begin to be able to separate reality from fantasy, but what was repeatedly put into their heads as a child, stays there.
Posted by: AnonymousYes; studies have explained that violent computer or video gaming is dangerous and causes violence.
The reason I agree with this explanation is that in many shootings, the killer would play a violent video game on a console. The video game ratings should lawfully ban minors from the ability to purchase certain M-rated games. The proposed sin tax, which may become a law, is a great idea.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, violent video games do cause more violence and aggression.
No you do not become a killer by playing violent video games, but I have noticed that CHILDREN playing mature rated video games do become more violent and aggressive towards others. The more the child plays theses types of games, the more violent and aggressive they become towards others. I do believe violent games (rated mature) can cause behavior problems, but only in children.
Posted by: AnonymousCauses aggression & violence.
I believe that playing violent video games do cause aggressiveness in teens and children and can lead to violence on a larger scale. People may think that there is no affect because the results are not instantaneously, they build up over time. Also, people can become verbally violent and aggressive and think violent thoughts as well as be physically aggressive. There have been studies on this topic as well. But I leave you all who disagree with one question: Do we really need proof? Or is it just common sense. It took YEARS to figure out that smoking was extremely harmful for your health. It cost us countless lives and people have developed diseases. Do we really have to wait until 5 people die in a car accident to set up a cross walk and stop light? As final proof?
Posted by: AnonymousViolent games cause kids to become abusive
Kids are taking in what they see in all these mature games and are thinking this is right. Kids are being influenced and desensitized to violence because of all the violence they see in these games. Kids should not be playing these games that are based around killing and getting rewarded for it. Everybody needs to stop being ignorant of this big situation of needless violence. Kids are being hurt with everything that they are seeing even when they don’t realize it.
Posted by: Anonymousviolence
Violence causes children to be more violent in reality than in the games that they are playing. 'Grand Theft Auto' is a great example of a game that causes kids to be violent. But all of this is coming from a kid themselves. just so you know. thank you for your time!
Posted by: AnonymousNo, parenting is a key.
Good arguments on both sides, but in the end video games are still not the source of violence. Too many other factors weigh in, and the top ones being age group and mindset. First of all, all the arguments about kids playing violent video games are invalid. As a parent, if you're letting your little kids do ANYTHING violent, then fingers point back to you. In younger years it is up to parents to decide whether or not a child or adolescent should be playing violent video games, but whether or not that actually happens, well no one actually has control over an individuals parenting. Also, if you know that you child has a mental disability, the parent should be the responsible one to not allow violent video games, as they are more prone to taken it "too seriously". And parents' arguing is not a contributing factor; I'm talking about abuse in its many shapes, (drugs, mental, and physical). On a more personal I had a hard time being raised and growing up, but violent video games have not swayed me towards violence in any way, shape or form. It was the opposite; violent video games were more of a stress reliever and allowed me to let go of that stress with only a few clicks of buttons. I understand that not everyone thinks like I do, but my point is that to actually cause violence, the person who plays violent video games would have to have a history of violence or many contributing factors, such as certain hardships growing up (family violence in particular as I mentioned above), or just straight up brain damage leading to the inability to differentiate reality from fantasy.
Posted by: AnonymousViolence in games causes children to think and believe that such violence is alright.
Being exposed to violence in video games will, long-term or short, cause children to adhere to violent behavior.
It's like moving from Texas to New York. When you first move, you may have a Texas accent. After living there for long enough, you'll start to have a New York accent. People, human beings, adapt to their environment, their surroundings. Playing video games with violence will cause a child to reveal a violent nature. Some kids more than others. Those who are naturally aggressive {@elizafekla} are still going to show more of an aggressive behavior.
-Ken(:Posted by: AnonymousPlaying over and over
Children that play violent video games hundreds and thousands of times get a natural instinct when trying to solve a real life problem with violence. These violent video games can also make kids more destructive. When they see a character from GTA 4 they see him having money, weapons, and aswesom things. These kids wan to be like that character and have all the stuff he has so they will act like that character.
Posted by: AnonymousYes they can.
In Call Of Duty the health warnings reads that to play for a hour then take a 15 minute break. May cause health issues! That does not mean to worry when playing violent games like Call Of Duty or more. But according to the health warnings and my own opinion it's safe to take breaks from the game and not let this become an addiction.
Posted by: AnonymousViolence Through Video Games
Violent video games do cause aggression. I have done so much research on this topic. They cause you to become aggressive, during and after the game. Young children are playing them now too, a young child's mind is not fully developed yet. When they play these games they can't separate fantasy from reality. They grow up playing these games and getting a reward for causing chaos and others pain. They think that the only way to get their way is to become violent. I'm not saying they are going to do anything drastic, but playing violent video games does cause some aggression whether it is physical (school fights, bullying) or emotional (bullying). Given the recent events and that most of the population is playing these games I can say without a doubt that the future is going to become an even more violent one.
Posted by: AnonymousFor some people, violent video games can have a large impact on their behavior.
Both sides of this argument are compelling. Both sides have reasonable arguments, but for some people violent games tend to have a greater affect on their behavior. In my opinion, I think some of the factors that lead to behavioral problems are improper parenting and understanding the mental state of the child or adult. Other people may not experience behavioral issues at all.
Posted by: AnonymousYes They Do!
Investigators discovered people who played a violent video game for three consecutive days showed increases in aggressive behavior and hostile expectations each day they played. They also found that those who played nonviolent games showed no meaningful changes in aggression or hostile expectations over that period. This can prove it.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games are bad for the mind.
These video games are not a good way to spend your time. The video game has a plot that is all for war, and killing, and death. Some of these video games include killing zombies, which is not less violent or bloody (in fact it is more bloody) but it is better for the mind (although its not good for the mind) then killing people. Killing people for no reason overall, and for fun, is 1) not productive, and makes the player want to do something like the video game in real life (NOT good).
Posted by: AnonymousI chose this because...
Every single thing we do as humans effect our mind and can harm us. Plus, little kids watch things on TV or their big siblings play video game and wanna be just like them!!!!!!! This is just not right and has to be stopped. I'm very strongly against this debate. And to everybody that said no, YES!
Posted by: AnonymousYes
Although some studies suggest that playing video games enhances a child’s concentration, other studies, such as a 2012 paper published in Psychology of Popular Media Culture, have found that games can hurt and help children's attention issues — improving the ability to concentrate in short bursts but damaging long-term concentration. Video games may also have bad effects on some children’s health, including obesity, video-induced seizures. And postural, muscular and skeletal disorders, such as tendonitis, nerve compression, carpal tunnel syndrome.
Posted by: AnonymousCall of duty causes violent behavior
My son was a model student and son. He began playing this video game when he was 17. He behavior became more and more addictive to the game. He then became rude, violent and changed his behavior totally. He stopped being tidy, etc., basically lived for this game. He stopped going to college and dropped out of school. Stopping this game has helped him turn around. When he was playing it, we truly felt like his anger might cause him to kill us. We sought psychological help and he is better now.
Posted by: AnonymousEducation About Y Generation
I recently was educated by my employer about the differences between generations. The Y generation was rated "pervasive media - inescapeable" and "blurred distinction between reality and media." I wholeheartedly believe that violent video games CAN impact a persons attitude about killing, especially in children. I recall as a youth coming out of a Bruce Lee film or a Rocky film feeling full of testosterone and very agressive. I'm not saying that video games are THE cause, but I am saying that what you put into your mind does impact you. I was told just a month ago that some of these games actually have a level in them that tell you to kill civilians. This kid said that his dad walked into the room and saw this and said, "I thought you were better than that." Then he walked out. Why on earth would a video game manufacturer have a game that has a person killing civilians? It's just plain sick.
Posted by: AnonymousNurture
If we agree that the environment that we grow up in effects us as human beings, then surely video games-a part of that environment-effect us also. I believe that violent video games give a perception of death and violence without consequence and in fact offers reward.
How can a 5 year old, who is still absorbing so much, not, on some level be leaning a dangerous message?Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games cause behavior problems, because constant exposure to violence desensitizes the player.
Violent video games cause behavior problems, because constant exposure to violence desensitizes the player. Then, it is very easy to transfer this video violence to real violence. Extended playing of video games also causes distorted perception. A game player can "kill" a game character, turn off the game, then restart it, and the game character is there to play again. It doesn't work that way in reality.
Posted by: JamieMWhen you were a kid?
When was the last time you watched a fighting movie, and you got up and pretended to be that character? Why do you think young children did this? Because they were affected! Even now, young children are STILL being affected by violence in video games. And even these days, it is more common than less, for young "PG" rated games to be FULL of gaming violence. This can easily affect a young child's brain and mind and affect how they think.
Posted by: AnonymousSome extremely aggressive/vulgar games do cause behavioral issues.
I know people who when they play violent/vulgar games become aggressive and easily agitated, However when they do not play these games there is a distinct difference in not only their mood but their attitude and behavior. When they play these games they become addicted, they do not leave their rooms or even their house, they feel they must continue to fight. They enjoy shooting people in the head and it is worrying. Their language, since playing these games has changed most definitely, swearing etc.. I know this as they have told me that they learn this from some games. However I do know of some people who's games do not affect their social lives and overall behaviors.
Posted by: AnonymousThe more you see something, the more likely you are to engage in that behavior.
Seeing violent imagery puts violent ideas into people's heads. They might already be angry, but seeing how to take it out on other people or animals just makes it worse. The more you think about something, the more likely you are to do it. It reinforces your neuron pathways when you think over and over about killing someone or hurting or torturing them. The more you think about it, the harder it is to break away from those thought patterns. Violence is like a drug, at least to some people. You see the same graphics in WoW or fighting then you want more realism, more blood, and more gore. The "dosage" always need to be heightened.
Posted by: AnonymousToo much exposure
Violence in video games has been a very controversial topic since the twenty first century. The debate of video games violence started in the late 80’s and escalated during the 90’s. The height of the debate occurred during the time of the Columbine massacre. The shooters at Columbine spent countless hours playing first person shooters and other violent video games. Many believed this is the reason behind the shooting. Speculation said that the long hours they put into video games fueled their existing mental issues. The killers at Columbine used video games to help them train for the massacre, and many psychologists believed that the violence in their video games crossed into their reality. More recently violent video games have been linked to other school shootings, increases in bullying, and raised aggression in children. Since then, there has been much debate on whether violent video games make children violent or not. Neither side of this debate can be officially proven because scientific experiments are difficult to conduct. Although there is a lot of evidence and smaller scale experiments that show both sides arguments. Children are being exposed to too much violence at a young age which leaves a bad influence on the children. Graphic video games should be kept away from children because it leaves a bad influence on them.
Posted by: AnonymousAggressive thoughts and feelings can occur from violent video games.
There has been many reports of aggressive behavior shown from playing violent video games. Approximately 90% of kids, ranging from 8 to 16, spent around 13 hours a week playing video games. After several weeks, a study shows that these children are more aggressive in real life. Children in this age range are more attracted to imitating what they see. In this case, they imitate what they see in violent video games, which shows a change in their behavior.
Posted by: PricklyDino58I know as a matter of fact that violent video games can cause bad behavior.
When a kid is always playing a video game, all it can do is make their thoughts be violent. We as parents need to be an example and show the young kids the right behavior towards aggression. We should not let our thoughts take over our action when it comes to aggression. You have to think of your kids or others around you with your own decisions. Accusing or assuming something is not the answer. When a label states an age requirement its for a reason! So please, for the love of god, think for others.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, it does cause a behavior problem!
When I play racing video games I keep thinking about them after I'm done playing. After Star Wars, I feel like really playing real Star Wars with my brother. After Super Smash Bros Brawl, I feel like fighting with punches and kicks on the Wii when I'm finished playing it. Violent videos are the same thing. Kids and teens probably want to go shooting people from violent video games. You get congratulated when you kill a person and will want to do that in real life by taking a life, an innocent life. People with mental problems also have to do with it because they play violent video games they get angry they kind of know how to use a gun and are not afraid to use it on his or her parents.
Posted by: AnonymousI agree that violent video games lead to behavioral problems.
In my school, I know another student who constantly plays video games. He was nice when I first meant him, but now after he picked up games he has changed. He swears and often pretends to be holding a gun. This is direct proof that violent video games alone can alter personalities Children under the age of 15 should not be allowed to play violent games because they are too impressionable.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games make people more aggressive.
My brother enjoys playing video games such as Halo, Black ops, and Battlefield. His game addiction started when he was around 14. Before that, he still played video games for 2 hours a week or so , but he was well mannered, kind to people and he was very athletic (playing tennis, soccer, and was a cross country racer.) I know you guys might think his attitude is only changing because puberty or whatever, but it's come to an extreme. He now plays about 5/6 hours a day, and his behavior has become much more aggressive. He is always angry, and his temper has become very short. Video games have definitely changed the way he acts towards others.
Posted by: AnonymousSaying otherwise is hypocritical.
We talk about people who play Guitar Hero wanting to learn to play guitars... People who listen to Brittany Spears dress like her, people who watch crime shows wants to work in Forensics (explaining the raise of people wanting a career in it since CSI started to air.)
The culture around us inspires and affects everyone...! Except for Violent Video Games... Those are the only exception... It's a hypocritical idea.
Fact is, Brittany Spears and Nicki Minaj inspire children to dress like them and act like the lyrics they hear... People who play Guitar Hero are more likely to play with guitars and think they can play them. People who play Call Of Duty are likely to want to join the military... It's all been studied and proven... Violent Video Games are not the exception...
I can't list a friend who didn't talk like a gangster and think like one after a week of GTA...
Things we like inspire us... They influence us... Games included.Posted by: donald.kellerFantasy and reality
Most youth are able to recognize the difference between reality and fantasy, so they see the games as pointless entertainment. But, some kids get immersed in the violence, which may contribute to a cold-hearted view of other people. It may make them prone to aggressive thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Clearly, too much time on any video game entertainment takes away from time spent on school work, causing their smartness to drop.
Another fact that violent video games are bad is the contents. While some games have educational content, many of the most popular games emphasize negative themes and promote:
• the killing of people or animals
• the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol
• criminal behavior, disrespect for authority and the law
• sexual exploitation and violence toward women
• racial, sexual, and gender stereotypes
• foul language, obscenities, and obscene gesturesPosted by: AnonymousKids are acting out the part
My son and his friends act like characters in the game they are playing, especially Assassin's Creed. But I think it is to a certain extent where they are just fooling around like any kids. Some kids and adults cannot seem to decipher the difference between the "game world" and reality and that is where it becomes a problem. Addiction to the game can cause this problem, and when not playing the game can cause a brain meltdown from not getting the chemical of adrenaline to the brain.
Posted by: AnonymousIt causes behavior problems.
Many kids in America are having a hard time because of video games, such as Call of Duty. It can affect their relationships with family, their educations, friendships, etc. It's pretty bad things too. I read news about a boy playing a game for like 11 hours because he was so addicted to it, and he killed his friends. That's a serious problem.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, they do!
Violent content video games such as Mortal Kombat and Doom have become very popular among children and adolescents, causing great concern for parents, teachers, and policy makers. This study accumulates findings across existing empirical research on the effects of violent video games to estimate overall effect size and discern important trends and moderating variables. Results suggest there is a smaller effect of violent video games on aggression than has been found with television violence on aggression. This effect is positively associated with type of game violence and negatively related to time spent playing the games. Directions for future programmatic research on video games are outlined.
Posted by: AnonymousI chose this because...
Every single thing we do as humans affects our mind and can harm us. Plus, little kids watch things on TV or their big siblings play video game and want to be just like them!!!!!!! This is just not right and has to be stopped. I'm very strongly against this debate. And to everybody that said no, YES!
Posted by: AnonymousYes, they do.
I think they do because I have seen it first hand that they do make them more violent and aggressive. But they affect children mostly to think that this is ok to do . They also make people become immune to seeing people get killed.so Yes it does affect behavior
Posted by: AnonymousHave you seen how into them kids get?
Some kids and teens spend almost have of their time playing violent games. There is no way it doesnt affect the way they are thinking in their everyday life. There are many stories reported of kids and teens acting out and committing crimes very similar to ones committed in games they play. They make it seem normal to the ones playing it so much.
Posted by: AnonymousI'm completely sure!
Kids spending too much time playing video games may exhibit impulsive behavior and have attention problems. This is according to a new study published in the February 2012 issue of the Journal of Psychology and Popular Media Culture. For the study, attention problems were defined as difficulty engaging in or sustaining behavior to reach a goal.
Posted by: AnonymousIt creates warriors without the pain of war. To kill without actually killing and not having to understand or feel the consequences.
Too many people, young and old, aren't afraid anymore of their actions. If I don't know you, why should I care attitude. The idea of respect seems to elude them making it possible to harm without worry of being harmed. Oddly though, one does there best trying to survive playing lets say Call of Duty and yet, in real life, kids commit suicide after a killing spree. Life itself has become cheap. In a way, to actually kill is the great adrenalin rush, nothing matters after that.
Posted by: AnonymousHear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil
Yes especially in young children. A child does not know the difference between media and reality. As adults we need to inform them that in the real world there is consequences for acts of violence. Games has ratings for a reason, if a child is not old enough to buy the game the child should not be playing the game. Cameesha C. Mitchell
Posted by: AnonymousYes, violent video games can cause behavior problems.
I do not believe that people should play violent video games in their lifetime. If they do, they will start to believe that violence is natural, and therefore they will do bad things. Instead of playing violent video games, perhaps they should be playing educational games or watching educational television programs.
Posted by: Anonymousyes, they are!
Academic achievement may be negatively related to over-all time spent playing video games. Studies have shown that the more time a kid spends playing video games, the poorer is his performance in school.(Anderson & Dill, 2000; Gentile, Lynch & Walsh, 2004). A study by Argosy University's Minnesota School on Professional Psychology found that video game addicts argue a lot with their teachers, fight a lot with their friends, and score lower grades than others who play video games less often. Other studies show that many game players routinely skip their homework to play games, and many students admitted that their video game habits are often responsible for poor school grades.
Posted by: AnonymousStudies of children and young adults have consistently showed that continually observing violence desensitizes youngsters to it, and they tend to model what they see.
Children are little "learning machines." They are constantly absorbing and internalizing what they are told, what they are taught, but most especially they model what they see adults doing. If adults are violent, then that becomes the norm for the child. If the child sees violence in movies or on television, that is what is their "norm" and that is what they will mimic.
If just watching others perform violent acts on television or in the movies causes children to act out what they see--how much stronger is their likelihood of acting out violently when they are taking part in the violence. That is what violent video games allows, and encourages, them to do--act violent. The person who "wins" in a violence-oriented video game is the one who does the most damage, hurts or kills the most of the "enemy," destroys the most buildings or cars.
Can anyone doubt that these violent acts are being internalized, and will surface when the child is confronted by any level of hostility?
Yes, violent video games beget violence. And not just in children. Police statistics have shown conclusively that domestic violence calls escalate during end-of-season sports events.
We become what we contemplate.Posted by: CI3IikeYes, violent video games cause violent behaviors
Violent video games teach violence. You cannot unwind the stress by playing a violent game, because it causes more stress. It is a spinning wheel of violence. The games teach that the violence is the answer for stress. This is totally wrong. The publishers earn big bucks by hooking up kids and adults to the games, the effect is the same as drugs, only that instead of heroin players get adrenaline. The hard wired brain reactions do not make difference between the video games and the real life, players do get stressed, and they get adrenaline rushes. The digestive system turns off, the same as in the real life stress situations, the players can go without eating for long time. The immune system turns off, they get sick more. The cognitive function of the brain is messed up, the decision making goes fishing. I know what I am talking about, I was addicted to violent video games for a while and now as I jumped off I see the poor choices I made and I see how being used to the violence in the game affected that. If you want a shooting game - go for real life Airsoft game. That will keep you physically fit, will teach you team work and constructive decision making. Playing violent video games is the same as watching violent movies, they all scripted and they put you through the violence training. Jump off the video games and get a life! I did.
Posted by: AnonymousAction games are dangerous for kids if not controlled by parents
Every kid that plays these kind of games without parental control/supervision are most likely to stay really attached and maybe at risk of dangerous and deadly thoughts. Such as the kid who killed his parents after playing halo 3 too long. People could think killing or suicide is really really amazing and think they might ''respawn''
Posted by: AnonymousI think it does
It desensitizes kids and adults to real life violence. If you shoot someone in a game, you don't go to jail. You get bonus points. That statement was quoted by Dr. Phil. They won't make your kid for sure go out and shoot someone. But there is a high chance
Posted by: AnonymousThere is no doubt in my mind
There is no doubt in my mind that they do. They teach kids to do drugs, drink, sex, and violence. The crime rate has jumped and video games is to blame. If anyone in there right mind thinks that video games are healthy they are wrong. Kids are also most likely to eat while playing games which is an unhealthy behavior.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games mean addiction.
It is inevitable to say that addiction is a strong desire and video games supply this joy. It is enjoyable, I agree, but it is like drugs. Once the child reaches a certain level of violence and becomes bored - what is known physiologically as habituated - the child needs more of the "drug" to maintain the high level of excitement. This maintaining leads child to lack of social life or fundamentals, basically eating or drinking or paying attention to other activities. This is a behavior problem, isn't it?
Posted by: AnonymousPoor parenting? Maybe.
"I've played games all my life and haven't killed anyone" is not an argument, its just well done for you. Perhaps you haven't killed anyone, but chances are you have been frustrated, irritable, anti-social, addicted and had many other negative effects imprinted on your brain. Few gamers will tell you they never had gamer rage which they've carried around with them after playing. So yes games have a negative effect. That said they also have many good effects which boost positive areas of the brain. So its not necessarily a problem with games but game content. If you've enjoyed shooting a prostitute in GTA, well then I'd say that's a negative effect of gaming. And as for the bad parenting argument, then yes perhaps these kids have had bad parents and perhaps that bad parenting was letting them play violent video games.
Posted by: AnonymousYes they do
Research on exposure to television and movie violence suggests that playing violent video games will increase aggressive behavior. A meta-analytic review of the video-game research literature reveals that violent video games increase aggressive behavior in children and young adults. Experimental and non experimental studies with males and females in laboratory and field settings support this conclusion. Analyses also reveal that exposure to violent video games increases physiological arousal and aggression-related thoughts and feelings. Playing violent video games also decreases prosocial behavior.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games cause violent behavior, because performing violent acts in games acclimates the player to performing violent acts in real life.
Personal experience has shown me that when people, especially children and adolescents, participate in violent video games, they become immune to the true impact of violent behavior. Because violence in video games has no negative consequences and, in fact, offers "winning" as a reward, children lose the ability to empathize with the victim and are encouraged to think in terms of "us versus them", which is a guaranteed way to promote violence.
Posted by: LovelyKellyBoth sides are compelling
Both sides have reasonable arguments, but for some people violent games tend to have a greater affect on their behavior. In my opinion I think some of the factors that lead to behavioral problems are improper parenting and understanding the mental state of the child or adult. Other people may not experience behavioral issues at all.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, I do think it does.
Because I have a brother that plays and he is weird. I think that when people play violent video games they act different. People have started being angry and sleepy and violent to the friends family and school members, for example they stay up all night play or playing all day and get no sleep that's why they get sleepy, they get angry because they get restless. Do you have a friend that plays a lot of video games, do they ever act like this ?
Posted by: AnonymousYes because kid try to copy WWE
Yes, because studies have shown if you play violent video games you have bad behavior. I agree with this because every time you play a violent video game, you change. You keep talking about and don't stop. At school your grades will fall because you keep wanting to play it and don't bother paying attention. The graphics are so real that it seems you are there and holding the remote like a real gun. Also you get points when you kill a person on COD and then you might want to get real life points. You get so much into the game that you want to play it so much to you will do anything to try and shoot a real gun.
Posted by: AnonymousCauses aggression & violence.
I believe that playing violent video games do cause aggressiveness in teens and children and can lead to violence on a larger scale. People may think that there is no affect because the results are not instantaneous, they build up over time. Also, people can become verbally violent and aggressive and think violent thoughts as well as be physically aggressive. There have been studies on this topic as well. But I leave you all who disagree with one question: Do we really need proof? Or is it just common sense? It took YEARS to figure out that smoking was extremely harmful for your health. It cost us countless lives and people have developed diseases. Do we really have to wait until 5 people die in a car accident to set up a cross walk and stop light? As final proof?
Posted by: AnonymousViolence In Teen Games
Video games have been available to consumers for the last 30 years. They are unique because they encourage players to become a part of the game's script. Players are encouraged to actively participate as a character by choosing how they will interact with other characters including which weapons will be used while fighting or attacking other characters. Weapons often include guns, knives, pipes, bombs, etc.
Posted by: AnonymousClaim that the effects of violence and crime-based video games are even worse than similar films and TV because of the interactive element that exists in video games.
The propensity of a gamer to project themselves into the roles that they are being played out in video games is enhanced by the interaction of the gamer with the game. The point of most video games is to place the gamer in the position of "role-playing" in which they "become" the video game action figure. This is disctint from TV or Movies in which the expressed purpose of the program or movie is usually not to create a "role-playing" environment for the viewer. As such, players in violent video games engage in a unique process of creatively excercising and controlling what are often criminal or violent acts within a video game. As such, there is the unique potential that gamers begin to identify and become comfortable with the notion of commiting such violent or criminal acts in video games and possibly reality as well.
Posted by: 123qwaszxYes, because they influence the users!
When playing online, your kid can pick up bad language and behavior from other people, and may make your kid vulnerable to online dangers. A study by the Minneapolis-based National Institute for Media and the Family suggests that video games can be addictive for kids, and that the kids' addiction to video games increases their depression and anxiety levels. Addicted kids also exhibit social phobias. Not surprisingly, kids addicted to video games see their school performance suffer.
Posted by: Anonymousyes, it does!
Too much video game playing makes your kid socially isolated. Also, he may spend less time in other activities such as doing homework, reading, sports, and interacting with the family and friends. Some video games teach kids the wrong values. Violent behavior, vengeance and aggression are rewarded. Negotiating and other nonviolent solutions are often not options. Women are often portrayed as weaker characters that are helpless or sexually provocative.
Posted by: AnonymousEverything we do has its effect on us
Totally agree with it. Whatever we are doing either consciously or unconsciously would have an effect on us up to some degree.
Even though violent games are further of different natures, but most of them have blood, murder, and much more for which u are rewarded in it.
It makes us tolerable and acceptable to this kind of situations.
Although all people playing may not get just violent in their behavior as a result, but the fact is, vast majority would adapt , may be unconsciously, these thing in their personality.
So, to be on a safer side and demotivate people for getting violent attributes in their personality, these type of games should be avoided.Posted by: NaufilYes because kids that are playing violent video games are mostly all becoming abusive
Kids are taking in what they see in all these mature games and are thinking this is right. Kids are being influenced and desensitized to violence because of all the violence they see in these games. Kids should not be playing these games that are based around killing and getting rewarded for it. Everybody needs to stop being ignorant of this big situation of needless violence. Kids are being hurt with everything that they are seeing even when they don’t realize it.
Posted by: AnonymousMost of the massacres that have happened are caused by gamers.
Violent video games teach people how to kill, and they get rewarded. You kill someone and get 10 coins. This tricks your mind into thinking that if you kill someone in real life, you won't get punished. Also, when people play for too long, their minds tend to lose grasp of real life, and the game becomes their reality.
Posted by: AnonymousIt does! .
Children raised with abuse or violent media learn that it is an effective way to solve conflict and problems! If the TV wasn't introduced there would be 10000 less homicides and 7000000 less injurious assaults in the usa! Therefore this states children or young teens who use or watch violent games or movies cause violent behavior.
Posted by: AnonymousYES it does!
Children follow what they see. We want our kids to emulate the good they see on television and some do and we are happy about that. So how come when they behave aggressively because of what they watch we blame it on something else. We are such hypocrites! It truly is common sense.
Posted by: AnonymousI believe it does make teens act this way
I'm not saying it affects all teens, but some are easily influenced by it. It isn't just a day's worth of video games that make them act this way. It's over years of time. Ex: When you are at a young age (5), you would be easily influenced, and if the parent of the child continues to let the child play these games, they more than likely will be influenced by it. So it's not like getting on your Xbox or PS3 and get influenced, it's over years' worth of time. Thanks for taking time to read this.
Posted by: AnonymousCan lead to violence later in life.
Not all people who play video games commit violent crimes later in life, but the violence in video games leads kids these days to think it is okay. The kids today do not even think twice about interacting in the violent games and it is fun for them to shoot and kill things. Why do we allow children to play these violent video games?
Posted by: AnonymousCauses Aggression & Violence
I believe that playing violent video games do cause aggressiveness in teens and children and can lead to violence on a larger scale. People may think that there is no affect because the results are not instantaneously, they build up over time. Also, people can become verbally violent and aggressive and think violent thoughts as well as be physically aggressive. There have been studies on this topic as well. But I leave you all who disagree with one question: Do we really need proof? Or is it just common sense. It took YEARS to figure out that smoking was extremely harmful for your health. It cost us countless lives and people have developed deceases. Do we really have to wait until 5 people die in a car accident to set up a cross walk and stop light? As final proof?
Posted by: AnonymousI believe it does but it depends on the maturity level if they can tell the difference between a game and real life.
A lot of parents blame the video game when in reality the should be blaming themselves. It's up to parents to decide whether their child is mature enough to play a violent game. They need to ask themselves if their child is mature enough, and can he tell the difference between real life and the game. Many factors come into play but truthfully it is the parent's choice.
Posted by: AnonymousKids get violent after playing violent video games and watching fighting movies or TV.
After kids watch a violent movie or TV show or play a violent video game they want to fight each other. They go crazy kicking or punching each other, especially boys. That reaction after watching or playing violent games can expand into something much bigger. All of the shootings are from people under 30. These are people who would have played video games.
Posted by: AnonymousStudies have shown that video games can cause attitude problems to occur.
I say yes because children who play violent video games will have attitude problems. They have studies that show what factors are out there. These factors show us that this is what causes bad behavior. "M" for mature should have the age restriction. If a child walks in with a parent, the clerk should ask how old the child is. The age to start playing the games should be 16, but really it is 18.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games promote bad attitudes.
To some extent, violent video games also cause racism in society. Just take a look at the various games out for sale, many of them involve the killing of a particular race of people. For example, many games which involve exterminating terrorist involves killing the Muslims,. Surely this encourages preposterous ideas among society? Do we really want our children growing up with ideas like this? They would be highly influenced by these games and hence, give them these outrageous opinions on certain ethnic groups in society.
Posted by: AnonymousNot everyone is the same.
Yea so maybe some people don't show aggression and anger, but there are people in this world who aren't so stable when it comes to playing violent video games. Some kids are likely to act out some of the stuff on games by pretending to do it. Even though pretending doesn't mean actually doing it, it's possible they might have that idea in hand.
Posted by: AnonymousViolence and video games.
When you play violent video games frequently, the violence in the game becomes part of who you are; part of your personality. The games reward you for killing and base missions around them. Soon enough, you become indifferent to the pain and suffering of others, and some psychopaths even begin to enjoy it. It becomes part of your mindset that killing and torture are the only ways to solve problems.
Posted by: AnonymousBloody and violent video games, over a period of time, can contribute to violence and cruelty.
That is because violent video games teach youth that violence is an acceptable conflict-solving strategy and a way to help reach their goals. For example, a 2009 study found that youth who play violent video games have lower belief in the use of non-violent strategies and are less forgiving than players of non-violent video games. Playing video games that are violent causes the development of an aggressive attitude towards other people. Essentially, youth should play less violent games instead of playing horror video games. Overall, violent video games can contribute to youth violence, because they can lead to mass killing sprees and increased bullying.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games change people.
My brother is a good student, but when it came to video games, everything changed. He plays NBA 2k when our parents aren't home, or he sneaks out to play at his friends house. He stays up all night and doesn't go to school. Our mom screams at him to wake up, but he doesn't even move a single muscle. He was grounded, and he wasn't even allowed to go anywhere. He was allowed to go to a basket court, and my sister went with him. Once we were done, he said he was going to his friends house, but he was grounded. My sister said he was grounded and told him he to come home, but he didn't care. I was heart broken for what he has become. I wish he would be my real brother and not smoke with his friend and play video games.
Posted by: AnonymousI think that the first time you had the idea to shoot someone was after you first saw it.
Seeing violent imagery puts violent ideas into people's heads. They might already be angry, but seeing how to take it out on other people or animals just makes it worse. The more you think about something, the more likely you are to do it. It reinforces your neuron pathways when you think over and over about killing someone or hurting or torturing them. And the more you think about it, the harder it is to break away from those thought patterns. Violence is like a drug, at least to some people. You see the same graphics in WoW or fighting. Then, you want more realism, more blood, and more gore. The "dosage" always need to be heightened.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, Penguins say so
According the American Psychological Association, violent video games can increase children's aggression. Dr. Phil explains, "The number one negative effect is they tend to inappropriately resolve anxiety by externalizing it. So when kids have anxiety, which they do, instead of soothing themselves, calming themselves, talking about it, expressing it to someone, or even expressing it emotionally by crying, they tend to externalize it. They can attack something, they can kick a wall, they can be mean to a dog or a pet." Additionally, there's an increased frequency of violent responses from children who play these kinds of video games.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, because they cause behavioral problems.
I have personally experienced this. When people, not always children, play games that are violent or read of violence, etc. they become desensitized to such violence. In the Army, it is a requirement to play COD in order to become desensitized to killing people. My friends have also become "immune" to such gore and violence.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games cause behavior problems that can have a negative effect on a person's mind.
Having played violent video games myself such as Call of Duty, I can say that I have felt more aggressive immediately after playing the game. It's because of the fast paced nature of the game that makes you feel angry and frustrated when things don't go your way. And then this anger can translate into causing problems in real life. So I think that actual games wouldn't make you commit crimes, but the negative effect they can have on the mind such as anger and frustration can affect other areas of a kids or even adults life if played excessively. As I was playing multiplayer I noticed a lot of kids yelling and swearing at each other, and this just goes to show how the game affects their mentality. Not to mention how unhealthy sitting idle for long periods of time in front of a TV screen can be. So I believe that violent video games do cause some sort of behavior problems if played excessively, but not to an extent that will make them commit real world crime.
Posted by: AnonymousOn the fence
Personally I'm on the fence, and I believe that the question should be reworded to "CAN violent games cause behavior problems?" Some games can, such as horror games. But then there are others that may seem violent and bloody, but they are so ridiculously violent that they aren't taken seriously.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, violent video games do not cause behavior problems.
Violent video games do not cause behavior problems. You don't need to conduct a scientific study to figure that out, because the answer is as plain as the sun in the sky. If violent video games did cause behavior problems, we'd have a world filled with uncontrollable criminals running amok, destroying property and causing harm to people. Since we have not descended into anarchy as a result of the existence of violent video games, the answer is clearly no.
Posted by: AnonymousThose saying no are those playing harmful video games!
If you say violent video games don't cause violence that is because you see violence as normal! Little kids who live in violent homes and are exposed to media violence will have it ingrained in their heads that violence is okay and even good. That is not the society we want to have, is it?
Posted by: AnonymousYES IT DOES
IT DOES! Both sides are compelling. Both sides have reasonable arguments, but for some people violent games tend to have a greater affect on their behavior. In my opinion I think some of the factors that lead to behavioral problems are improper parenting and understanding the mental state of the child or adult. Other people may not experience behavioral issues at all.
Posted by: AnonymousHere are some examples
•A 13-year old boy jumped from the building’s 24th floor and committed suicide after playing Warcraft III for 36 hours straight.
•A teenager went on a rampage and killed three men, two of them police officers, after months of playing Grand Theft Auto.
•A 17-year-old male killed his mother and wounded his father after they took Halo 3 away from him.
•A 15-year old ran away from home after his parents took his Xbox console away. His dead body was found almost a month after.
•Two kids murdered 13 and wounded 23 before turning the gun on themselves acting out their own version Doom.Posted by: AnonymousSimulators for Chaos
Watching a violent movie is viewing. Playing a violent video game is interfacing and you become the person pulling the trigger. Again, again, and again... so in effect, it fuels the fantasy of killing and kicking ass and becomes a simulator to train for that. And if the person playing the game has some level of cray cray in their head, the game could be grooming them for The End Game. Very scary. If your entertainment of choice involves the urge to kill other people, get help.
Posted by: AnonymousMy son is much better off of the games.
My son has a bad temper and is defiant. But when I remove his violent video games for a few days he becomes nicer, calmer and more compliant. It's very clear to me that the games have a negative affect on his behavior. I am afraid that if he is allowed to continue playing the violent games he may become a very scary teenager and adult.
Posted by: AnonymousI Agree
Playing a game that involves killing others and winning the game based on the most people you kill, makes you more tolerant to violence. It may even give you the desire to feel what it is like to really kill or seriously hurt someone.
Any person that says differently plays a violent video game and has been desensitized to it. Why would anyone want to pretend to kill someone in the first place. We should have enough morals to avoid violence even if it is pretend. Just because there is no scientific studies done to prove it does not mean it isn't true.Posted by: AnonymousViolence should not be alllowed on video game
Those that are for violence in video games or the violence on TV and do not believe that this is not the effecting the children by increasing violence around them are wrong. Some children already have lots of violence at home, so why add more to their head and let them grow-up with the thought that violence is correct in this world. So take a stand so companies and the television programs that children are watching go away and don’t increase the possibility of violence in this world.
Posted by: Anonymousgames are wrong this is wrong!!
Violent games make kids violent because, some people in the world have been victims of murders caused by video games. I think that we should put a minimum to these vile violent games. I don't think that we should be playing these games, especially when they destroy our lives psychologically. We should put an end to this NOW!
Posted by: AnonymousElementary school massacre: 27 killed, including 20 kids, at Connecticut school
I think anyone that is not questioning this themselves might be living in a video game fog. 15 years ago I would have said absolutely not but the last 5 years seem to point to a definite yes. These most violent crimes seem to be more and more committed by high level game enthusiasts and although the correlation surely will be hard to conclude the topic must come to the fore front.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games can affect behaviour in both good and bad ways
Visual display units in forms of play do change the way one acts in a particular way but in both good and bad ways. When children play video games, well, not necessarily children but I'm sure you understand what I mean, when children play video games they are surrounded by many different role models on their screen of both good and bad, no matter how violent the game may be, there will always be "the good guy" as children would say and "the bad guy". Video games do affect behaviour as the characters in a child's favourite video game could possibly be their idol or similar and would try to act in the same way. That idol could either be good or bad, if that role model is bad, then, it does cause behaviour problems. I am only a 12 year old girl and I am preparing for a debate similar to this topic, I have only debated once and am about again. I play video games and even I know that video games can cause behaviour problems.
Posted by: Anonymousyes
Yes they do because some people think they could be the character in real life. They think it would be cool to be like the character in real life for instance Grand Thief Auto is a game that most people like to play and 27% of the people that play it promote violence.
Posted by: AnonymousNot so much as a game or two a week, but if the player devotes themselves too it...
I don't play violent video games. They're pointless. When gamers (mostly those below the age of 13) start the game up, all they can think about is violence. Some can argue that they think about other things when they play, but it is not easy to daydream about your friends or family while bullets fly through the air. Sometimes the behavior problems aren't so noticeable, and sometimes they may not be violent. However, when the gamer becomes devoted to the game, things change. I was once in the Microsoft store, watching two kids try to play Minecraft, when these other two kids start up Call of Duty and were debating the best way to get the best kills. "If you aim for the guy's head when he's by the bridge, the barrels behind him explode, blowing his guts all over the place!" (not actual quote, but you get what I mean.) These games numb the player's mind to the concept of killing someone in the game, and could lean them towards real life.
Posted by: AnonymousI believe that violent video games desensitize the players to actual violent acts.
These days, video game animations are much more realistic than before. Countless hours are spent programming the graphics to these three-dimensional games. Young people, who are the primary market for video games, can be quite impressionable. Violent R-rated movies are not advisable for young people, and violent video games have the same content.
Posted by: R Bowen
Video Games do way more good than bad
Videos games are pretty much stress releivers to the world. Anything thats wrong with someone, namely violence, Is the PARENTS fault not video games Parents who complain about their kids being violent probably aren't very good parents looking for an easy excuse like the video games they bought for their kids.
Posted by: AnonymousMy entire life.
Being a 16 year old boy, I have heard these issues multiple times, whether they be on the news or this website. I have been playing violent games,including GTA, since I was 5 and admittedly got into fights when I was younger (grades 3-5) but I have no criminal record and am honestly the biggest wimp I know, sadly, and would not hurt anyone so when I read these I find it hard to believe that violent video games in particular cause violence.
Posted by: AnonymousPeople be stupid.
I play violent video games all the time so do my friends and we don't go around shooting people! If you think violent video games cause violent crimes then you are more stupid than you may have thought. Just because a person plays violent video games doesn't make them a psychopath. If a person wants to murder someone then they will!
Posted by: AnonymousNo; in my experience, video games do not increase violence.
My brother, my friends and I play Call of Duty all the time. We are just the same as we used to be. I'm only 14 and I don't think these kind of games affect any of us kids. You can actually learn a lot about war or the history of things. So no, video games are not violent, unless you are playing Grand Theft Auto. Stealing cars and killing people for no reason could make you very violent.
Posted by: ColtongI disagree
I am a 16 year old gamer and i have been playing tekken, mortal kombat, and other violent games since i was 5 and yet i have not had a single behavior problem. video games are stress relievers to many gamers that have problems irl now if you still argue with fact then start a debate im down for one
Posted by: JamesJoltParents are to blame.
People think violent video games affect their children, but did they discipline their child correctly? Did they show little or no love to their children? Did they teach their children what is right and what is wrong? If you taught your child correctly, then there won't be these problems. Thank you.
Posted by: AnonymousParents are the problem.
Violent video games are not the problem. It is the parents that did not raise their kids right that are the problem. Many of these people that are violent have had a history of violence in the past or have had mental illness before they started playing violent video games
Posted by: AnonymousNo they do not.
I've been playing video games since I the NES I am 17 years old, I've not killed or attacked anyone. I don't have angry mood swings or feel the need to murder, pillage, or rape. I play all the major titles that are in question. Halo, Gears of War, GTA, Bioshock, Fallout. I don't have the need to attack, I don't have the feeling of wanting to kill people. I am a peaceful person. Unless LAG is involved.
Posted by: AnonymousI have played many violent games and have not acted violently.
I have been playing Grand Theft Auto since San Andreas was released and I haven't killed anyone! I'm not thinking about killing anyone either! Shooting someone in a video game will not make you want to shoot someone in real life. If that logic worked, then would that mean that if I played an NFL video game, I would become a professional NFL player?
Posted by: Anonymousgames arent bad
people dont understand that games are ment to be played if you dont want ur chield playing them then ok fine but they will and still dont cause violent behavior and make sure that its ok just teach right and let them play just tell them dont do it in real life and every thing should be ok
Posted by: AnonymousNo, I'm not a killer or will ever be...I just love COD BO2
I don't believe blaming violence sole on the effects of video games is oblivious and ignorant. I believe children see more violence in everything else (news, broken homes, abusive homes, rape, movies, television) then in playing video games for 5 years with no breaks. I believe its all up to the parents to guide their children in the truths of violence and humans. Having too much of anything is bad, even to much dance and exercise.
Posted by: AnonymousWe are not a nation of killers
Violent video games do NOT cause behaviour problems. You don't need to conduct a scientific study to figure that out, because the answer is as plain as the sun in the sky. If violent video games DID cause behaviour problems, then we'd have a world filled with uncontrollable criminals running amok, destroying property and causing harm to people. Since we have not descended into anarchy as a result of the existence of violent video games, the answer is clearly NO.
Posted by: GothSkunkI play video games and I am smart.
I am 18 I have been playing call of duty for 10 years and I am in the honor roll in my school. I have won 3 spelling bees and have been MVP on my soccer team for 2 months straight. I have friends, no enemies, and I am not a violent person. Never have been, never will be.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not make people violent.
If video games have a impact on our behavior, then do singing games make us better singers? Why doesn't Mario make us eat mushrooms and destroy blocks to make magic coins appear and shoot fire from our hands? Do cooking games make our cooking better? My result - video games have a small chance of making you violent.
Posted by: AnonymousDoctors in Boston show the opposite.
There is now a study in Boston where they take kids up 18 who have had anger problems, and sit them down after their normal treatment, and make them play 15 minutes of a game called Rage Control (a shooter). They split it half and half. The kids who play the game are calmer then the ones who don't play the game.
Posted by: AnonymousMy life playing games
I have played a lot of games. Many. Most of them have been violent games. Call Of Duty series, Battlefield, GTA and so on. I don't think Iv'e been more violent because I've been playing these games. I don't think you can blame the games. If you want to blame the games then do it. But if you wanna play such games you should be old enough to see it isn't real life. There are the age restrictions.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games don't always induce harmful behavior
They have true educational purpose, I know this from personal experience from when I was younger, the games taught me more than the schools could. Every single game I played (and I chose wisely) showed to me a brand new lesson to be learned every single time I play one.
Posted by: AnonymousParenting, not video games, shape a child's knowledge of right from wrong.
Think about it. Kids acting out, fighting in school and behaving badly at home is not the fault of a video game. It's the parents' responsibility to teach their children right from wrong. Before allowing your child to play any game, you should know what content is in the game. Read the back of the box and decide if it is appropriate for your child. If you ignore the warning label, you are to blame. If you let your child go to his or her room and turn on their console and start going on a killing spree without taking time to discuss fantasy (games) from reality (life), again you are to blame. Stop and think and about what your being told by the games packaging and don't give in to your kids tantrum. Take control of what they play.
Posted by: AnonymousParents are a part of Violent children.
Most video games which are Rated M for mature, show information of blood and gore, extreme violence, and violent language, And yet there is still parents who buy these for thier children. That is a fact, for I have seen it in my job. So parents dont state its video games fault, when its your parenting skill that lacks.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, video games help people.
Actually video games actually help people by improving hand-eye coordination. Just because it is violent does not mean that video games are the reason. Parents try to cover up their bad parenting or because they are not around. I'm 12 years old I've been playing since I was 3 and it has not changed my behavior, it actually has improved it. Video games teach kids to prepare for the worst, and react to the best.
Posted by: AnonymousThey do not cause violence
Video games in which you commit violence is usually for a good cause (for saving the human race, saving someone, or in a dystopian society where you are struggling for survival). Doing violence to overcome violence is not negative but positive. If you are committing violence for a bad cause however, may cause violence.
Posted by: AnonymousIt just
doesn't, considering that some kids do have violent video games and may act out while playing them, they know better than to actually do something as the video game. That's the reason video games are rated, because the mentality of the game depends on the age of the children. Now, if a parent buys a violent game for a 6 year old, that's on them, they should know better. Buy the right games and you won't have a problem.
Posted by: vicky_deliriousNo they don't!
Really people, is it just a coincidence that all the reports of violence is when hormones and stuff are going on within the body? Has anyone ever not been moody or aggressive during puberty? I believe that video games are actually stress relievers. 2/3 people in the USA play violent video games. If video games cause violence, then I would be worried.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games are awesome.
The games that people play really don't have any effect on behavior in children. I play video games all the time and do not have a violent nature whatsoever. I'm one of the biggest fans of the Call of Duty series and this doesn't effect my behavior in any way.
Posted by: AnonymousPlay responsibly
I own a gun and have played violent video games my whole life. Not once have I ever considered going anywhere with my gun to cause harm. It's the parents jobs to educate their children about proper right and wrong and decide what they are old enough to view and play. If someone decides to go and act out it's because they have serious issues already. Anything can trigger bad behavior. It is a personal issue that has no one cause. You can not legitimately say a game or the content of games causes issues because there are so many people who are not affected in their behavior. Don't blame violent games, blame violence itself as a whole. Be it in movie, book, game, or real life form.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games are the scape goat for other issues in society
Most people believe the hype that games are the reason for children acting violently, this is just not true. If you read the studies they are biased and even say that there are problems with how they are studying the issue. Maybe as a society we should look at how we are raising our children and put the blame where it needs to be, spoiled children that have no sense of consequences.
Posted by: AnonymousPeople are already violent
People have always been violent. Genghis Khan didn't start wars because he played the most recent Grand Theft Auto game, he did it because he wanted to rule the world. Truth is video games are a recent trend and there is no reason to blame human violent behavior on them.
Posted by: Anonymousdoesnt
Just because someone plays violent video games, doesn't mean they will become violent, or angry. I play violent video games constantly, and I'm fine. It is the mental stability of the child, along with the parental supervision, and upbringing. If you don't want your kids playing those games, don't buy them. Don't allow them to play. The average gamer can distinguish between real life and video games, and dont get sucked into believeing it is real life.
Posted by: AnonymousDon't blame games!
I am an 18 year old boy who has been playing video games since the age of 6. I have never been in a fight nor tried to hurt anyone. I will admit that video games can make people angry but unless you have serious mental issues that doesn't mean you are going to go out and go on a killing spree. From my 12 years of experience I don't see how video games cause violence. Also search up the crime rates over the last 10 years. Since the boom of video games crime rate has gone down. Look at the facts not opinions!
Posted by: AnonymousIf they make...
If violent video games make people violent...then Monopoly makes you a millionaire, Grand Theft Auto makes you a thug, Wii sports make you an athlete, and Madden makes you a football player. The point is that games overall do not influence anything about a person, that person influences him or herself.
Posted by: AnonymousI'm Not violent
I am one of the many people in my school who enjoy violent video games, and I show no signs of violence. I kill thousands in Black Ops 2 but still take the time to feed the kittens that were born beside the dumpster where I work. It pains me to see that people who never really play these violent video games are normally the ones who blame them. To me that's the same as a kid who plays a lot of Mario Kart or Need For Speed think they can be professional drivers. Its not a cause, its an outlet for aggression.
Posted by: AnonymousThey provide excitement and joy, not pain and grief.
When you watch the trailers for a game you've been waiting for your thought is " I cant wait to play that game!" Not, "I wonder how this is going to play, hopefully I kill innocent people and I can buy a gun and I can shoot people and maybe they'll make a game from what I did!" Yeah KIDS...kids..get angry, but what do you expect, they..are..kids..teenagers and adults get mad sometimes too, but they have the maturity to shut off the console, whereas the kid just wants to play it constantly. They have the M rating on there for a reason parents. Stop buying your kids mature games and then complain about it later. IT'S YOUR FAULT. The story in a game is life changing because you feel so isolated from the real world and you have your own, and things to do in it. It's a trip to paradise, happiness slips in and you just want to take a break from reality.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, and no. However mostly no.
Yes, it does cause some short term behavior problems but those effects truly are temporary most commonly an hour or two. No because it is almost impossible for a child to be influenced by a video game, unless the child has mental problems that prevent them telling right from wrong. If adults play a video game they know it isn't real and has no effect in real life.
Posted by: AnonymousDon't be so quick to point fingers.
There have been no scientific studies proving that violent games or movies cause behavior problems. There have, however been several studies proving that social pressure dictates what a person will do. People do what is socially acceptable. There are way too many people with terrible morals and values. There are good reasons why most violent games are rated 17 and up. By that age a kid is expected to know right from wrong. If they are hopeless enough that a video game could sway them from their path of right vs. wrong, they would have ended up doing whatever pleased them anyway. I am an 18 year old girl who has played video games all my life and can tell you first hand that playing a game where you kill people is no different than a game where you try to jump over obstacles. The fun is in the challenge. And what makes kids who play xbox live games terribly rude is not the game, it's the people on the live chat calling each other nasty names and trash talking. They do that on every competitive game in existence. That becomes the acceptable, social norm. Teach your kids manners and listen in every few minutes to make sure they aren't talking like a sailor and you won't have as much of a problem.
Posted by: AnonymousThis is a lot like saying "let's make peanuts illegal since some kids are allergic to them."
In the end it's the user. In the U.S. These games are rated "M" for a reason, "M" meaning "Mature." This is essentially the same as the rating "R" for a movie. If these games were intended for your six-year old son then I imagine it would be rated "E."
Now I'm not saying parents should wait until their kid is 18 to before purchasing any "M" rated games for them. The real issue is whether or not the one playing these games can distinguish between a game and real life. This falls under the responsibility of the parent. Have you noticed stores tend to "card" people when purchasing video games? Perhaps while we're at it maybe parents should start buying cigarettes for their children too.
On another note parents need to distinguish between simple frustration in comparison to aggression. I've played plenty of FPS, and yes I have been frustrated at times. (In your generic first-person-shooter, bad luck come and goes... It happens) If you kid starts picking up bad habits, such as excessive swearing, then step in. If the problem persists then perhaps these games should be taken away. Laughing isn't all that uncommon, if something really unexpected happens. Laughing like a maniac though may be a red flag.
As for the topic of "blood and guts" I personally do not play games to "see someone's head explode." For me the term "violent video games" isn't all that different from an online version of "connect four." In the end you have fun, and play to win.
Bottom line: It's the role of the parents to decide whether to let their children play video games. To those parents out there: "You're the parents, act like it." Saying things like "violent video games cause violence, and hence should be illegal" is a lot like saying "let's make peanuts illegal since some kids are allergic to them."Posted by: AnonymousAnything can cause behavioural problems if exposure is disproportionate
Violent Video games, movies, TV, books, well every activity has the potential to create maladjustment with the overuse. They need to balance the time with non violent activities etc....hug someone after playing grand theft auto ;-)
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not affect the way you act.
Video games do not effect the way you act. Violent video games are used as a stress reliever and something to calm you down. Video games only bring out the person who you really are. It's not changing the person, it's only showing who they really are. If someone was naturally violent but didn't show it, video games would bring that out. If they aren't violent, though, then the person will remain calm and peaceful to other people.
Posted by: AnonymousFALSE. Your argument is invalid.
Really guys? You all are basing it off psychopaths that may have shown intrest in it but, you can't really be basing it of that. Most of them have mental problems that make the aggressive or unpredictable. If people knew they were like this too and how media such as videogames have such an impact on them then why let them play this in the first place? Yes we may not know who the adults are and my response is mostly based of teens but really come on... dont the older players with problems have someone to take care of them and say no?
Posted by: ChoumansThink about it, more than 2/3 of people in America play video games.
That means that if it did then more than 2/3 of Americans would commit violent actions. That's not possible, no matter what we do, so yeah.... I would like to have a debate on this because I take debate classes and would like to see your arguments. I don't mean to offend you or anything if I did.
Posted by: AnonymousGaming relieves stress.
What's better than coming home to some video games to relieve the stress. It helps most definitely, as I'm a student in high school I personally know this. I may not go hard out like the guys but I play often enough to know the games themselves don't make people violent. What makes us violent is the lag in the internet connection.
Posted by: KaosGoddessIt's like a stress ball but in another world.
If people play violent games, and are complaining about behavior changes, then why did you buy it? You should've researched the game when they asked you to get it, if there was any M rated content, then don't buy it. People really need to start doing this if they are worried about the rising aggression.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, video games don't cause behavior problems.
Often these murderers that have gone on rampages, killing people in schools and other public locations, are found to have played violent video games. People are quick to say that these very games actually caused the behavioral problems that led to this violent behavior. It's more likely that these individuals already had a violent disposition. This violent disposition caused them to seek violent video games - making it an unrelated association instead of a positive correlation.
Posted by: Anonymousviolent video games may not always lead to violence
There is very good reason for this. There was a study done on why people play games so much including the violent ones. The first reason is the feeling of control of being able to do things in the game that you can't do in real life. Right now i can't remember the other 2 but i believe violent games or any game can help people calm down a bit more and relieve some of the days stress
Posted by: 1crazymenThey don't cause violence.
It depends on people if they apply the game violence or not. I play hours and hours a week but I get great marks. You can ask most of my friends - they play same time I start and up until the same time I end. We do this almost every day and nothing happens to us. We don't have any problems, we don't get in stupid fights. Even most studies don't claim that video games will create violent monsters of your children. They can't. If that were true, we'd have blood running in the streets. For the majority of "normal" gamers, the worst claims seem to be short-term aggression without substantial consequence, and a general lessening of communication and empathy skills – but again, without specific consequences attached.
Posted by: AnonymousDoes the game rating not matter anymore?
It is true that, over the years video games have gotten increasingly violent, showing blood and gore to amuse the players. But, to avoid any problems, they give the game a RATING to tell the players whether they can play it or not. that way, games like Call of Duty will only be played by young adults or older, but you still see a 9-year old playing it too, and chances are that they will have problems down the line. This is why people should look at the age rating and listen to it, because if they don't, behavior problems will occur.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games don't change behavior
Most kids play during puberty, so parent's notice a change in their behavior. Games aren't the source of this behavior change. I know this because I've been playing games for 13 years (since I was 4) and even I have noticed that my behavior has changed, since when I was around 12.
Posted by: AnonymousBlame The Circumstances
It isn't the children at fault for being able to get their hands on a game rated for mature teens, and it isn't their fault that their school peers pushed them to the point of shooting up a schools, there are many video game players who do not go on shooting rampages, why isn't the fact that the percentage of video game players who commit violent crimes (rape, murder, assault) is quite low known?
Posted by: AnonymousBeing bullied and neglected can cause a person to become violent with rage or even sorrow, but not video games.
Video games cause aggression, but not violence. Violence is the effect of aggression. The player is aggressive during game play of a video game that involves violence. It causes the player to react in a violent manner if his or her character is in a life threatening situation. Afterwards the player will experience an aggressive behavior as a result for playing a game. Now he or she may become violent, not violent from playing games, but by outside interactions. Video games can not be blamed for things that cause people to become violent. Again, outside interactions can provoke people to react violently. An alternative method for dishing out their anger by being aggressive is in video games.
Posted by: Anonymousvideo games
video games help people respond to problem in the world faster because it takes real focas and stradgey to stay alive or get a kill u also need to be well aware of every thing that happen like linsting to your backround and helping team mates in trouble with coud make u nicer and rasis your self esteme
Posted by: AnonymousNo they dont
Violent video games don't cause any one to become evil or violent. They can only influence people or show people what cannot be done in real life. It is only the weird psychopaths or people who do not have enough mental brain processing powers that cannot differentiate between life and game.
Posted by: AnonymousNot at all
I believe it is the parents responsibility for what their children can play. Parents should also teach their kids to the effects of what games can teach you. Parents should watch for labels like "E for everyone" or "T for teens". This is a little thing that parents should do that can go a long way for their children.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, not at all
Video games are for people to relieve stress and have fun. It is like a hobby for young kids, The people who play games and commit a murder is because they have some sort of mental issues, and its not their fault. They were just unlucky. Also, every time there is a teenage murder, everyone suddenly blames it on video games, they don't look at the other part of the background of that teenager, it might be because the has problems at home, his parents fighting or hurting him. Or problems at school such as a bully or someone who harasses them. I have been playing video games all my life now, and I don't see my self running around murdering people around every block. Gaming is just a hobby.
Posted by: AnonymousThey do not.
C'mon now. It's not that video games cause you to become or act or think more violently. If anything, Video games only make you more "immune" so to say, the violent actions. Over the years, I have played Call of Duty, Battlefield, Grand Theft Auto, and many other violent games, (keep in mind i'm under 18), and not once have these games provoked me to kill, stab, or hurt anyone, and I have never broken a law. Not only have I never done these actions before, I don't even have the thought to. It really all depends on the person, and if every kid or person that played violent video games were provoked to do something bad, we would already be in a post-apocalyptic world. This is like saying guns kill people, or eating utensils make people obese, it's absolutely ridiculous.
Posted by: AnonymousPersonal issues determine violent tendencies, not video games.
I have been playing video games for years, and not once have I ever had the urge to go out and murder someone.The majority of people know right from wrong, and they have self control. If a person wants to be violent, they're going to be, no matter what. Mental illness, a person's experiences, they're state of mind, etc., are the cause for violent people,not video games.
Posted by: AnonymousPeople Have Issues
For one, I do not believe that video games cause violence in any way. These accusations arise when any relatively new form of media comes about (such as comic books in the 50s). It has been proven time and time again that video games are not the cause of violence. I cannot say that there is not a single case where video games impacted one's behavior, but I can say that the majority of people playing video games have absolutely no desire to recreate the violent acts shown. Video games tend to be blamed because people who were often mentally unstable (and just so happened to play video games) gained access to dangerous weapons that they should be nowhere near. My point is that if somebody commits a violent act because of a video game, they are already mentally ill and any sort of portrayal of violence would be enough to set them off. And on the subject of video games influencing young minds, there is a rating system for video games that effectively tells the buyer what content that specific game contains. If a parent doesn't want to buy a violent game for their child, they have every opportunity to stop them. When they don't and in the case that their child becomes violent, they have nobody to blame except for themselves.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, frankly it doesn't
These games that kids play, are mostly a way to get out anger and emotion instead of lashing out at their parents and/or children. It can also be a way to bring them closer to friends who also play those game and gives them a topic or conversation starter with new friends.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, violent games do not cause behavior problems.
Been playing video games for 16 years, and least 30 hours a week. I am not affected by aggressive behavior what so ever. Played gta vice city when I was 12. Not saying its not a bad game, but I never felt the urge of hurting anybody or picking fights. Games are played from make belief, or imagination. Everyone has imagination, therefore meaning that everybody can think just as bad of thoughts as to someone who plays violent video games. Only this?pline can help the ones who are young.
Posted by: AnonymousIn my opinion and from my own experience, video games do not cause behavior problems.
Society claims that video causes behavior problems. But from my own children's experience with video games, I do not agree with society. I have never refused to let my children play any of the so called "violent" video games, and I have never had to deal with any behavior problems with my children.
Posted by: jennydiaz118Tell me what video game people have been playing since the dawn of mankind.
People have been violent before video games were even created. If video games are creating violence in children then how do young children who have never been exposed video games get violent thoughts. I understand if someone were to say video games make kids more violent but to say it is the cause of violence is not true.
Posted by: AnonymousWhy think that?
Violent video games are not the cause. The cause is home life and upbringing. Video games are not the cause of anything. If you think about it most of the video games are based off of some of the most influential events in both american and world history. Take the call of duty games for example.
Posted by: EddieRainvilleGames dont cause acts of violence
There is a huge discussion that's been ongoing for a long period of time. Research has discovered that by playing a violent video game their behavior will change. However there is NO proof that they cause acts of violets. There is no scientific proof that proves that games cause people to kill, harm and become insane.
If the society are blaming violence on games, pause yourself and think... How are these kids getting hold of these games and playing them? ASK the parents... they will tell you the answer.Posted by: AnonymousNo, they do not cause violent behavior issues
I play violent video games all the time, and yet I am never aggressive nor have I ever gotten into a fight. Out of all the hundreds of millions of people who play violent video games, very few actually act out on behalf of them. I think people, parents in particular, use violent video games as a scapegoat to explain why their child is violent, and will not accept the fact that their child is just naturally aggressive
Posted by: AnonymousNo way
If anything, playing video games will improve your brain's performance. Having to deal with lots of fast decision making with the reward of being promoted or "leveled up" so to speak, and IOC you do not, the consequences push you to try harder be next time. This makes your brain react faster and think quicker than before. So video games do not make you react violently and actually help your brain.
Posted by: AnonymousWhere is the discipline?
After I'm done shooting people in the virtual world I totally feel like going around shooting people.... Not! Most people who do go crazy and make the choice to kill have no discipline. Discipline is learned through social and physical activities such as sports. It is learned and taught by people someone looks up to. Another issue is parenting. Most people who go insane don't have a parent present in their lives. This mentally makes it harder on an individual.
Posted by: AnonymousMedia is not responsible for our actions
I play grand theft auto which has prostitutes; shooting; stealing and I don't go out and do those things and why don't I. I know right from wrong. My mother taught me that. If I thought I could do that stuff in real life then my mom would go get me help. So should we ban people from watching the news that has a lot of violence in it?
Posted by: MaddenSixxNot at all.
That's like saying anybody that plays a video game dies, it's true but it's a stupid statement. "Hey this guy ate a potato and he killed a family! Lets ban potatoes! They probably make people kill people!" It's your fault your kid's a psychopathic murderer, not his babysitter the Xbox.
Posted by: AnonymousI'm a Gamer
I've been playing video games for as long as I can remember. I play games like Saints Row 3, GTA, COD, Halo, and even Gears of War. I am not a violent person. Playing video games relieves the stress I have from school and life at home. It's more of a helpful thing than a bad thing. Ever think that's just how people are? Violent.
Remember that teens go through stages and have raging hormones, don't just blame it on the games.Posted by: AnonymousIt's Simple Really.
I have played violent video games for years. I also play them very frequently. I have never had anything bad placed on my discipline record in school throughout high school and my college career. I use video games as a way to relieve stress when school work gets out of hand. I think it's ridiculous that people categorize all video game players as people who are angry and aggressive. That's not the case at all.
Posted by: AnonymousInteraction is relative.
There are a few exceptions to the general population that do become violent and also play video games, but correlation does not represent causality. I think video games are, at most, a good outlet for kids. They can act as someone else, and do things that they would never do or be able to do in the real world. Video games are one of the most immersive methods of storytelling we have available today. It can't be blamed for violence any more than a book or a movie. Video games are directly interactive, yes, but for example, a book is interactive in the imagination. A good book can put you in the place of the protagonist, make you feel as they feel. I's just easier to recognize and measure interaction with video games.
Posted by: chuckling.mastodonA place to express your anger without consequences
People get angry, it's just a fact of life. Violent video games give you a way to express your anger in a safe way that doesn't effect others. Sure, difficult bosses and such may be difficult to beat and increase your anger, but it really depends on the video game. All in all, video games are creative, and imaginative. It is a way to do things that you would never do in real life, such as a police chase, or taking on multiple mofia members in hand-to-hand combat!
Posted by: AnonymousNo video games do not cause aggressiveness or behavior related changes
I believe that it is the parents decision whether or not the child plays violent video games. If the kid has behavioral problems then it is their fault not the kids or the video games because their purpose is entertainment, not to train little 10 year olds at home about AK- 47's
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games causing behavior problems is relative and depends on the type of person playing them.
I as an individual play my share of violent video games, and as a first hand source I would like to state that video games, especially violent video games, are a medium of relieving stress through an outbreak of emotions pouring out on to the matter of relieving one's self from the detoriations of the mistified and confused world the person is endoursed with. On the other hand, some individuals blame violent video games inorder to forge some kind of excuse to explain the person's intolerable acts which the person would have picked up from other individuals to achieve some kind of gain, such as a sought of appreatiation or a reason to fit in.
Posted by: kenanhafeelAnimated violence doesn't cause violent behaviour in children
No violent video games do not cause violent behavior in children. We know this because since violent video games hit the market the crime levels haven't changed. I think that if anything the crime rates may have dropped because instead of people channeling their anger into crime they channel their anger into the video games!
Posted by: Anonymousno it doesn't
People who play war games and gang related games don't go out and shoot people or jack some cars, people don't go out with grenades and throw them everywhere. It does however keep you safe from people you don't know because in those games you also fight some other people.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not promote violence!
I have seen many video games that have blood and gore, and I don't have anger issues. Whoever came up with this idea has the wrong facts. Someone being violent would probably be from their family, not the games they play. Video games are not the cause of deaths, suicidal attempts, massacres, or anything else. The idea that video games promote violence is just bull crap.
Posted by: AnonymousPractically speaking, it is impossible to eliminate violence in the world.
No, firstly, violent video games do not cause behaviour problems. I have family members that have been playing violent games like Grand Theft Auto and Prototype for years at ages as young as seven and they don't exhibit violent behaviour or intention to commit violent acts. Even IF violent video game caused behaviour problems, the acts of violence committed by the average man would influence kids to be violent.
Posted by: AnjouNo One Is Right Or Wrong
Everyone believes violent games cause violent behavior, my dad plays Medal of Honor and Resident Evil. He is not violent at all. He was in the army and he just loves to play games that involve rationing your ammo and saving items for other things later on in a game.
Posted by: AnonymousLook at the numbers
Look at home many people play video games (A LOT of people) and then look at the people who commit violent crimes who play video games. You could make up any reason why people would do these things. Video games are just video games. I play video games and I'm not violent and I'm one of the nicest people ever. I help people and I have never even punched someone. People who are evil commit these crimes. Video games will not effect you unless you are naturally evil or have a very bad illness.
Posted by: AnonymousPeople kill people
Obviously if someone already has an mental illness,is being bullied at school, is being socially rejected by their peers, and already has trouble in their real life, they will be more apt to commit violent acts especially if they don't feel like they have social bonds. This individuals does place much value in life in the first place and prehaps that is why they play violent games. But the game itself is not the cause. I think people assume that people become desentitized to all violence but how can if the only can you play is one in which marshmallow people beat up gummy bear people. If your going to make assumptions about violence in research you need to be clear because all players don't play the same kind of game. People equate violence to death and the average person even if they are desensititized to violence from some form of violent media doesnt mean they are desensitized to people dying or being murder in real life.
Posted by: AnonymousThere is no evidence to support that video game violence can lead to real life violence.
Children learn the difference between fantasy and reality at a very young age. The biggest school shootings in the usa took place before the invention of violent video games. The argument that first person shooter games train children to kill is so stupid that it baffles me. Children dont feel empathy for the video game characters that they are killing because they understand that these people arent real. If you hand a 9 year old who has been playing these first person shooter video games an assault rifle i can assure you reality will soon hit the child and he will be scared.
Posted by: AnonymousI have played video games my whole life.
Some people may say that the only reason someone goes out and shoots up a school is because they played video games too much and that caused violent behavior. They are wrong! Games are not meant to promote people to become violent. They are an alternate reality that does not tie into life. Does someone learn to be homosexual from watching a T.V. show that shows that homosexuals are happy? No, because it is the individual's choice whether or not to be violent.
Posted by: AnonymousNo different than movies.
A lot of people seem to have the notion that video games will turn their child into homicidal psychopaths just by playing them. The simple fact is that their is no concrete evidence to support this. Generally speaking, if the child has behavioral issues or displays symptoms of a psychopath, likely the child has had these issues already and was not corrupted by playing games. It is the same concept of movies and reality. Pretty much all players recognize the difference of the fictional world that the game is in, and real life. If you think video games cause behavior problems, then you shouldn't own a television because television programming, movies, and more all have similar themes and actions. Not to mention if you are concerned as a parent for video games, there are parental controls, game ratings (similar to movie ratings), and actually research the game to make sure your child is suitable for the game. Additionally let it be known that games like Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, Halo, and more sell millions of copies in just the USA alone and juvenile crime rates are not growing at exponential rates.
Posted by: AnonymousMost kids understand the difference between reality and fantasy
It's up to the parents to teach kids the difference between what is fantasy and what is reality. Why is it okay for adults to watch violent movies? Kids and teenagers are a lot smarter than you think. As long as the parent teaches them that what happens in a video game is not acceptable for real life, then the child will not turn out to be violent by playing a violent video game. Speaking from experience, my friends and I grew up playing all kinds of video games and we turned out just fine. Why? Because my mom taught me that violence in real life is not okay. It's just a video game, it's not real. That kind of behavior is not acceptable in real life. It's just so sad that there are so many parents that are blaming things like video games when it's their parenting that is at fault.
Posted by: ViolatorRoseI dont support this view.
It's bad enough that when violence happens, we don't rationally try to figure out WHY it happened, but the fact that we only consider ONE variable as the cause a problem that can be linked to a wide variety of variables, including the person's mental health. Most of the school shooters and other mass murderers had issues prior to the act of violence. You may argue that there was no indication that these people had mental health issues prior to them "acting out", but you have to realize that the stigma surrounding mental health issues in our society often causes people who need help or their loved ones neglect getting them the help that would allow them live a relatively normal life. The point is, why use violent video games as a scapegoat when the underlying issue is actually easier to fix through medication and therapy than through legal legislation? It just doesn't make sense.
Posted by: AnonymousPeople sometimes don't see it in some peoples way!
People think that if they are watching a fighting movie then they would want to do that because they have nothing else to do and they think its fun to do that. Some people think that its fun to even carry a real weapon when in fact its dangerous and it could hurt someone. Also it might be that their parents are the cause.
Posted by: AnonymousMisdirected Fire
To be honest, I don't thing violent video games affect people like that. Yes, you get more stressed and angry when playing them, but that is simply gamers trying to meet the challenge. What enrages me really, is that military based games like Battlefield and Call of Duty, both of which I like and play, receive way too much MISDIRECTED FIRE from the media, when the influential games( if games influence gamers at ALL), are going to be games like Grand Theft Auto, where you basically yank someone out of a car and shoot them, and thats the whole game. Don't criticize military FPS games for the problems big city RPGs are causing!
Posted by: Rainfur1092No.
Violent video games don't increase violence, they help you physically and mentally with stress relief. Also people have the conscience to decide whether or not they want to believe the games are real and let them influence their actions. This is why video games in general are fine, and most of the people commenting on this debate are just children who want to defend their unhealthy habits. Thank you.
Posted by: AnonymousI think violent video games have no effect on physical behavior.
I play violent video games and I do not act crazy. It is the person them self that chooses to act the way they want. If kids want to act nice, then they will act nice. If kids want to act mean then they will act mean. It all depends on what they are going through. Like I said, video games have no affect on physical behavior
Posted by: chriscruzChoices
Everyone has a choice in how they act in their own life. you dont see serial killers and rapist base their actions on things they saw on tv. they base their actions how they responded to them in life. its simply unfair to do the same thing with video games. Their are millions and millions of kids who play violent video games and they have never shot up a school or had physical ultercation probelms. people on left just dont understand becouse their right wing catholic's whove probably never seen a video game befor in their life.
Posted by: JPhillips1018Not by themselves.
I have many friends that play video games, including some games that are violent. They are no more violent than anyone else I know. The games themselves do not make people violent. However, I believe that if a person, especially a child or teenager, with mental problems or someone who is bullied in school could be more prone to violence if they play violent video games. Also, I definitely believe that young children, no matter how sane they may seem, should never play violent video games.
Posted by: Martin194Profilers still include an interest in games
When most people play video games like resident evil and black ops they get exhilarated they get scared or enveloped. However, not one has a serial killer or mass shooter has mentioned a video game in a confession. When movies first came out they were at less than 60 frames a second and between each frame were put campaign slogans in order to mind wash the audience in purchasing a particular product. The human eye can register over 120 frames a second. In present day the lowest frames per second released into public is no lower than 720 now that means than there is so much more happening than our eyes can acknowledge if we had games that perfectly matched the amount of frames the human eye can recognize we would go through a form of post-traumatic stress while playing a video game and any time we tried to leave the game we would try to take on the persona of the character in which we were playing but since it doesn’t register as an actual action we mentally separate differently in our minds.
“Neither your eyes nor your brain see things in frames per second. Your eyes, the connecting nervous system and your brain all function on chemical reactions and incredibly small electrical currents.
All of that basically means that person A could potentially see events taking only 1/200th of a second, whereas person B could potentially see only events taking 1/100th of a second and nothing faster. Furthermore, by simply drinking more water or having more electrolytes in your body could actually change that value, maybe even drastically. Hell, a ton of things are capable of changing it: what you had to eat in the last 24 hours, body temperature, allergies , general state of health, age, even your general stress level can affect these chemical processes. Also something to remember: frames rendered in movies and TV are radically different than frames rendered on a computer screen. Both movies and television use motion blur, so that very high motion doesn't appear choppy even at a paltry 30FPS. Your computer doesn't perform motion blur (in most circumstances) so the frames can be very jerky during a quick movement”
http://www.Overclockers.Com/forums/showthread.Php?T=327353 Albuquerque
Profilers still include an interest in games when making their threat assessment of whether a person is at risk to act out violently, Mary Ellen O'Toole (ex fbi profiler) told the public affairs show. Profilers also examine if an offender used video games as a kind of planning tool for carrying out an attack. However, "We don't see these as the cause of violence," she said. "We see them as sources of fueling ideation that's already there."
http://kotaku.Com/5986706/fbi-profilers-dont-believe-violent-video-games-cause-violencePosted by: AnonymousNo, you don't become a killer just by playing video games.
If video games do cause violence wouldn't there be more killings then there already are? The crime rate has actually decreased while the sales of video games have increased ten fold. There isn't anything you can do about the companies that make or release them because they are protected by the Bill of Rights.
Posted by: WaterlanceVideo games don't cause violence.
Me, I'm only 11 Years old and I play video games basically anytime I have time. I've had straight A's all my life, won 3 spelling Bees, I've skipped 3 grade levels in school, never got in trouble. I have friends, no enemies, won MVP for my basketball team for one year straight. I have been playing Call of Duty since I was 8 years old. My life has not been affected by video games. If anything, people have bad behavior because of other things.
Posted by: rhino0921No they don't
Violent video game have, in general, no bad effect on people. Of course, there are the very few 'sick' individuals who better not play these games. I myself used to play violent video games like Call of Duty or Grand Theft Auto, and I never thought about killing anyone in real life. Note that I was a very aggressive player who liked to shoot rapidly and kill as much as I could. In real life? No. It always shocks me when things like the Sandy Hook incident or the Aurora movie theatre shooting happen.
Posted by: FloridianWhen did violent games start?
Violent video games, cannot, should not and will not affect a healthy mind. A mind trained and groomed to differentiate between, vice and virtue, good and bad, right and wrong, is capable of determining what is entertainment and what is to constitute making of a healthy mind and build ones character. May i ask everyone who is reading this arguement , how old is the menance of violence? And when did violent games start? The obvious answer is that violent games started only afew decades ago but violence is as old as humanity itself.
Posted by: AnonymousUsed in teaching
It's often people who are inexperienced with gaming who claims them to be bad. I myself haven't suffered any consequences of gaming, I'm getting good grades and my social skills are as they've always been. People forget that there's a lot of other things which could possibly cause violent children. Parents should be better at playing with their children and check out the age ratings on games, to make sure nothings gets affected in a bad way. Actually games are being used as a tool in teaching.
Posted by: AnonymousOf course not
I have played games such as Call of Duty, Assassins creed, Mortal Kombat, and many other games. Games may not be very good for your child, but it can teach then right from wrong. Also, I've played historic and strategic games, and I've learned many historical events such as the crusades, historical politics and leaders such as Napoleon, Robert Guiscard, the Borgias, and many other names. Also, children are exposed to violence, instead of staying inside of a bubble. When that bubble pops, your child is going to be screwed. He/She will be extremely gullible and stupid when they go to L.A or any somewhat large city. If parents have done a good job of teaching their child morals, they will be able to know they shouldn't try to shoot people for "points" and to "level up". It won't cause any behavioral problems. How is shoot people on IMAGINARY AND FAKE game going to cause them to take a knife to school? If the parents of a child have actually tried to raise their child correctly, the child will know not to try to punch people, or cuss. Instead, it will expose your child to another world so they will not be shocked when they move out of the basement or their mom's room.
Posted by: AnonymousIt is a stereotype of a growing artistic medium.
Stating that video games cause anti-social and violent behavior is as legitimate as saying Elvis Presley's routines cause children to do unspeakable things. Many people say that games cause such activities as shootings and mass chaos, when 8/10 times the perpetrators have mental complications. Additionally, most who argue against our medium for said reasons have no experience or knowledge of the topic, and all they know is founded on what the press says.
To draw up my point, games are not judged on their artistic, entertainment or educational value, but rather on their status as video games. We are a growing artistic medium - and as with all other media, controversy is just a stepping stone on our path to success.Posted by: AnonymousThe argument is flawed.
Video games, violent or not, are part of the culture. Simply saying a person who did something aggressive or violent plays a violent video games doesn't mean the video game caused the violence. It's like saying every serial killer drinks water, therefore water makes people serial killers.
We have been looking for some thing to blame for bad behavior for decades. Movies, comic books, television , and rock music have all been blamed for causing bad behavior, but no one really complains about these too much any more. Video games are simply the newest form of media that people will try to use as a scape goat.Posted by: AnonymousPersonal feelings aside
Violent video games have nothing to do with most behavioral problems. It is special to each individual case. Each person has a sense of right and wrong and being exposed to such violence whether it be in video games/television/or any other form of media all falls on a persons values on what they can get away with.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, video games do not cause violence.
I can see where the yes's are coming from but I believe that It's not the video games that make the kids violent. I think that video games are just an outlet of stress fro children. I was raised that war and violent games were never aloud in the house. Therefore I had an extra lot of stress. Every time I went to a friend's house and played a game I felt better. I believe that the reason that the children of america are turning to these bad sources of coping like cutting and such is because they don't have video games or other things to relieve their stress.
Posted by: Austin38Games do not even have effect
I am a 13 year old gamer, and I have played violent games such as Halo: reach and call of duty. those may be violent games, but when your playing with a friend and you know it is fake, you do not consider it violence, and it does not affect your everyday life.
Posted by: AnonymousDoes Beauty & The Beast Inspire You To Commit Bestiality?
Games are strictly for the "fantasy world". If players are taking these games seriously they need to be confronted & possibly tested for mental stability. Blaming video games does not solve the world's issues. Games have been around for hundreds of years, why blame them now? Video games, burger shops, guns, knives, etc. do not kill people. People kill people. We must accept the fact that a person has choices & the freedom to do things. Whether they choose to do good or to bad is on them, on their own conscience.
Posted by: AnonymousIf people want to cause violence, they will cause violence.
People all too often group perfectly normal, safe people into the same category as the "not quite right in the head" kids now days. This is not fair because a VERY small amount of kids actually have these problems. Video games only effect those who are completely detached from the real world, and if they are as such should be stopped from playing video games by their parent/guardian. Don't blame the Video game industry for these kids who don't understand reality.
Posted by: AnonymousI dissagree
Females don't play video games as often as males and they also tend to show the same level of agression as males. This does not mean violence are caused by video games. Many people also use video games as stress relievers. Most violent video games are quite hard to immitate.I believe violent video games does not cause violence.
Posted by: AnonymousThey clearly don't anybody who plays GTA and thinks yeah you can do that in real life is an idiot anyway.
I live in one of the most deprived areas of England and pretty much every young male goes out fighting and stealing. Myself on the other hand had Video games to play on, therefore keeping me in the house and out of trouble. People who think it causes issues with violence have clearly never met anybody who plays games, 99% of times they're called nerds and are bullied. Games allow them to live away from all the crap in society.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, because it depends on the child.
Children are usually born with their personalities, whether they be optimistic, short-tempered or friendly. Children with violence issues beforehand should only be given games that are more violent as they grow older. What IS important to note is that video games are GOOD for some types of depression, but not all.
Posted by: AnonymousIf anything, it helps.
Video games help relieve stress, not cause it Just because there is violence in the video game you are playing, does not mean that you are suddenly going to become violent? Now, if you are already an angry person, and have anger problems then its different. If you are naturally an angry person then begin playing a violent game, it could possibly make you more angry. But video games alone would not. I am a 19 year old woman in college and I have been playing video games for years and I am nothing but peaceful? I play Call of Duty regularly, and it has never affected my outside relationships.
Posted by: briannahollThis is ridiculous...
Their whole argument is "if you do violent acts in video games, you therefore are a violent person", people who say this are completely asinine. Not only do their arguments have no proof, but trends like this have happened before. When books first came out, they made people violent, radio and tv made people violent. The whole argument that video games cause violence dribbles from mouths of old dust bags who can't accept that video games are a art form of some sort. People who are against video games are in the backwards thinking box who can't accept that video games are a trending medium of entertainment. Listen to me and learn.
Posted by: AnonymousStress Relief
Violent video games can be a way for kids to release stress of daily life. It can help them "kill an enemy" without doing anything illegal. What they do when they aren't playing video games is more likely from bad parenting. Parents need to show kids that life isn't about being violent, but if you ever feel a need to, find a violent video game to release it.
Posted by: AnonymousIt does not cause behavior problems.
I am 17 years old and I have been playing video games since I was 8 years old and I have no behavior problem coming from video games. I have no anger management, I get straight As,(have been getting good grades, since I have been in school) and I am not a violent person. I can't even see myself hurting anyone.
Posted by: AnonymousCartels play GTA
If this was true do you think that Mexican drug cartels, the definition of violence, uses "violent video games" to train their soldiers? I mean who really believes that children who are old enough to have the ability to play difficult violent games still can't tell real from fake? It seems to me that this is just another excuse for crappy parents to blame their kids bad behavior on something else besides themselves and their parenting skills. Just like some parents blame McDonald's for their obese children.
Posted by: AnonymousData is inconclusive.
Violent video games are not the source of violence in the exact same way that circumcision is not the sole prevention method of AIDS.
For instance, AIDS is caused by prostitution. Circumcised people tend to get AIDS less frequently, but this is a completely irrational conclusion because AIDS is not inherently caused by the existence of the foreskin. There is no actual correlation, but as I've pushed before, humans see pattern where there is none.
In this exact same way, we've looked at a kid getting angry when he blows at Call of Duty.
Does this mean that violent video games cause anger? No.
Anger is caused by losing. We've known this for millenia, yet we pin it on more complicated things.Posted by: GaerteuthVideo games aren't real
Anyone who's heard about "school shootings" caused supposedly by violent video games must not realize no sane person would ever think picking up a gun and shooting someone is a good idea, these people must have had some serious mental problems in order to take something like a video game so seriously.
Posted by: AnonymousI love playing games, but I dont kill people
I have been playing video games for a long time. I still do, anytime I can but I DON'T KILL PEOPLE! I still do my homework first, because school is the most important. I play call of duty and modern warfare but only because I like the game and maybe just because I'm a boy.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, mental illness is the real issue.
Most normal teens have the ability to know what's fantasy and what's reality. The people who go and decide to shoot up a school had a problem before the video games and chances are they were going to kill end up killing somebody or an animal anyways the video game was just something that they related to when they did the killing. So the only reason people do commit those crimes is because of the mental illness not the video game.
Posted by: Kieran_Coutts-Perezviolence within games
ive been playing games such as COD, GTA and True crime since i was little and not once have i been influenced to be violent or commit a crime by any game whatsoever. games are age rated for a reason so if you think that games are influencing your children then dont buy the game for them in the first place.
Posted by: AnonymousThese games are for adults, not 8 year olds
Many people play games that have violence, and those types of games are targeted to be played by adults, not 10 year old kids. There is a audience rating of the game for a reason. The kids do not know how to control themselves. I know plenty of 18 year old that pay COD, all are nice and friendly. There kids on youtube, that scream and swear while playing COD, go crazy over a game when they die, and re spawn in 2 seconds All I can do is blame the parents for their behavior. They buy their kids games that show them how to behave, and they behave like that in life too. They are not mature enough to understand that it is just a game, and to treat it like one.
Posted by: AnonymousWhat are you talking about?!
Me and my friends play Black Ops 2 and we haven't changed a bit. Your parents can control what they allow you to play or what you decide to play. Most games come with gore on or off buttons. I usually have gore on, but when my little brother comes, I just pause the game and off the gore and violence stuff. I also mute the TV so he doesn't hear any bad words. Most people say that when you play those kind of games you don't do your chores at home. I do my chores everyday. If I don't I don't get grounded from playing my games. So violent games don't make you bad. You can only make the decisions that which game you are going to play or how it will affect you.
Posted by: AnonymousWhy would it?
Well if you think about it it's not actually going to affect you in real life will it? Violence doesn't come from made up characters it comes from the people. I know someone who played a game for a couple of months that was violent and they didn't become more violent until someone else started playing and then they started talking about it and acting like the characters. Basically the game doesn't make you violent it's the people around you that do.
Posted by: AnonymousPersonal Opinion
I've played video games for 18 years now and I have never become prone to violence or any other form of aggressive behavior. I started out playing games like Resident Evil 3, and for its time when game developers started out people thought Crash: Nitro Kart, was a violent game and I just think some people take this way to far, and for the people who want to ban video games jump off the pride express because it's only taking you straight to a political dumpster were you'll just disappear off into history with no great achievements attached to your name.
Posted by: Que3sadil14No, because many games are fun, entertaining, or educational.
Games are helpful in learning, games can be used to kill spare time. Games can also teach children, parents, or teachers about important lessons in life. There are a lot of games that involve violence or shooting, but that usually should not change the behavior of children, since it is just a hobby, or another way to have fun.
Posted by: Anonymouslife in general
I believe that video games does not provoke violent behavior. People do not become violent simply by playing a violent video game. People make their own decisions, video games do not make decisions for them. In life, there will be things that provoke our behavior, however it is in the way we perceive that information in which we make our own decisions
Posted by: AnonymousAs a young female gamer...
I have never resorted to violence because of "video games" or otherwise violent media. I have been a gamer all 16 years of my life and am ultimately a polite and thoughtful person who has never purposely fatally another living being. While I have the capability to resort to violence, I know the line between shooter games and real life. While I am an example of a young person whom has not been affected by my lifestyle choices, I'm sure there are. But then again, I'm absolutely sure that the effecting "lifestyle choice" was not video games, movies, or television shows that involved violence. It was more than likely a preexisting condition or the environment that they've grown in.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games by themselves aren't the cause of behavior problems.
When violent video games are mixed with an unstable home life, and other things such as abuse, substance abuse etc., that's when it becomes a problem, not just the video game by itself. More times than not a kid in a stable home with two parents isn't likely to be affected as severely, behaviorally, as one with an unstable home, maybe a one parent home.
Posted by: AnonymousParents are to blame.
It is not the game developers problem that kids are playing this game, it's the parents. I am a 16 year old boy and I play violent video games all the time, but the sad thing is when i get on to play, i see 10 year olds playing things like Call of Duty and GTA. Xbox and Playstation have become babysitters for parents these days. I pay for all of my things and i do play them often, but it does not make me want to kill people.
Posted by: millerjVideo Games Don't Cause Behavior Problems
I play violent video games almost every day and I never have any agression towards other people because my parents taught me right from wrong at a early age. I think that as long as parents keep an eye on their kids, they should know that video games are for entertainment purposes only, and should not be taken seriously.
Posted by: AnonymousCommon Sense Anyone?
Everyone keeps saying that violent video games desensitize children and that after many minutes of a game they forget they're killing someone. Well they aren't killing someone, it's a game. Children aren't stupid. They know the difference between real and fake and saying otherwise is practically calling a child stupid. If anyone is stupid, it's the parents that can't read a Rating and buys a rated R game for a 6 year old.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not make u violent
im 15 and i've been playing violent video games since i was 6 and not once have i ever been influenced to do anything violent or crime related so all those so called "experts" need to stop saying video games are bad cuz there not so insted of talking about how "video games make kids violent and do crimes" talk about some thing that is a real problem.
Posted by: AnonymousThe players fault
Violence was always the product of a weak, damaged or misguided mind. Yet everytime the older age or care givers get a cheap and easy way to blame violence on Music, TV shows, Movies, And of course in the more present times, Video games. Why is that every time something new or even inovative reaches a higher level of popularity, the elder generation, or people who would be scared of such radical differences, have to start blaming their problems on them? Like for example their children. To me this isn't a simple act of rebelion on my part. It's just a very immature and juvinile way for people to hurt others. So no, video games do not cause violence at all. It's the user who has created the problem.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games only depict a virtual reality, and should not translate into real-world problems.
There are millions of people who play the highly controversial game, Grand Theft Auto, realize that it is a game, and do not do things they do in the game in real life. If you believe games cause behavioral problems, there maybe be an underlying issue with the gamer himself, and not the software.
Posted by: FilthyCyrilESRB
The ESRB exists for a reason. If parents don't want their children playing violent video games, they shouldn't buy them for their "precious bundles of joy." That, and there are plenty of non-violent games to choose from: Mario, Sonic, Zelda, Kirby, Pokemon, Mega Man, Little Big Planet, etc.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games are responsible for as much real-life violence as violent films
Essentially, none. In Japan, video game culture is as rampant as it is in the United States. Yet, Japan has the lowest homicide rate of any first-world country, with a rate of 0.4 per 100,000 inhabitants compared to the United States' 4.8. In 1989 Japan experienced 1.3 robberies per 100,000 population, compared with 233.0 for the United States. Since 1998, crime in Japan has been decreasing in general, while its video games industry was valued at $20 billion in 2009. Clearly, the existence of video games has little to no effect on the general level of violence in a society.
Posted by: glassplotfulNot even a bit.
I have been playing video games all of my entire life, and all kind of games as well. Racing, FPS, Adventure, Crime, action, Sci-Fi, fantasy, etc. Especially FPS, they have the most violent stuff like Dead space (1,2,3) Resident Evil (1-6), wolverine, Bulletstorm, etc. I feel no violence inside me, I'm still peaceful.
Posted by: AnonymousIt depends on the player's maturity.
The age appropriateness of games has been assessed, and should be adhered to. Problems happen when the player is unable to handle the issues in the video game because they are immature - if the player is unable to handle the fact that it is a fantasy game - then they should not be allowed to play. It is not the games problem, but it is often the fact that parents have not restricted access to inappropriate material. If a child is playing a 'shoot em up' game at 5 or 6 years then they could struggle with understanding that this is not real life - especially if it is a R13 or worse an R18 - This leads to desensitization of their personality - and THAT LEADS to anti social behaviour... Teaching a child how to live life outside of a Video screen is essential - keeping the appropriateness of what they play is essential.... The game is not to blame .....
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games are good for kids because they provide feelings of adventure and excitement.
Video games can be good for kids because kids need the feeling of adventure and excitement. When I was little my parents didn't want me playing video games because it might hurt my brain, but I'm doing just fine. Sometimes parents are wrong. My parents were wrong because I turned out pretty good.
Posted by: AnonymousNo
What I mean is I play violent games a lot and I do not want to kill anyone because we all have free will to do what we want to do and that means if I do something criminal that means that video games play a very small role that or that person is crazy.
Posted by: AnonymousStudies do not show violence in youth.
Thinking about some of the points discussed on both sides and I must admit that some of you have the wrong idea. First off, in what way can you know for sure it is the video games causing the violence? What if the people who have psychopathic tendencies, the ones thinking of murder, don't play video game? What are you going to blame it on next, their diet? Though some video games have bad morals and are not good for teaching or learning, this doesn't mean that they cause violence. You need to play video games, and not just once, to know how they effect people.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not cause violence in the real world.
There is a part in our brains that separates reality from fantasy and those who act out violently from video games have that part of the brain missing or destroyed by one thing or another. Those of us who have that part of our brain working can easily separate the two and would agree that video games do not cause violence.
Posted by: AnonymousThis Debate is Stupid
It doesn't. I am an avid player of all the assassins creeds and first person shooter games. I am a straight A student, never fought, and have no criminal record. I will agree that it does make you more hostile and aggressive for a short period of time, but it doesn't make you violent in general during everyday life. As someone else said before, the responsibility lies with the parents. My guess is that if a kid is told his entirely life the right way to do things by people they trust, they will not throw away that philosophy for a vague message that a video game tells. I know all you parents think your kids are all pulling away from you and no longer listen, but if you were good parents like mine are, then you have nothing to worry about.
Posted by: AnonymousWhy do they think that
I'm 14 and I play violent games every day and you don't see me going around killing people and do bad stuff I'm a good person and don't do bad things and I been playing violent games for years so bad games don't cause bad behavior it's the parents fault.
Posted by: AnonymousIt doesn't
Saying violent video games make children more violent is like saying playing Monopoly makes children more rich. If a child has behavioral problems it is most likely the parents' fault, rather than video games. Young children should not be allowed to play violent games though. Almost all games have an ESRB rating which tells parents and gamers alike what age group the game is meant for.
Posted by: AnonymousWhat happens virtually, stays virtual.
I've been playing 'violent' video games since I was young and no one would have thought so. Because I'm very respectful, don't get into fights, I actually break them up. I think these games make us better people because constantly seeing the consequences virtually is a occasional reminder not to do any of these things.
Posted by: AnonymousAre you serious?
For all the people who say their son/daughter has behavior problems and being violent after playing a violent game like: COD, GTA, AC or anything, I want to say you do know you have to be 17 to buy these games right? Aren't you parents and have the authority to tell your child no you cant do this or no you cant play this? I'm 18 and played video games most of my life and I'm no where near violent or aggressive. Sure I have had my laziness, but I'm in college and I still have many friends that play games with me. My point is if your argument is about the youth or minors being "corrupted" by these games, they should not be playing them. Its printed right on the box 17+. Ask yourselves why am I letting my son/daughter play them then? I show my driver license every time I buy a M rated game so the blame is mostly on the parents. For me this is a seriously easy answer to this question because I have played all these games in the other arguments and read them. I think its ridiculous that people write their arguments based on no experience or even understanding of video games and how they work. I'm writing a term paper on this question so I've done the research. Please, to the parents out there, take some time to get to know what your children does and plays rather than let video games be a babysitter.
Posted by: AnonymousViolence and aggression is based upon an individual's mind.
I play violent video games all the time, and yet I am never aggressive nor have I ever gotten into a fight. Out of all the hundreds of millions of people who play violent video games, very few actually act out on behalf of them. I think people, parents in particular, use violent video games as a scapegoat to explain why their child is violent, and will not accept the fact that their child is just naturally aggressive.
Posted by: elizafeklaThe player or gamer gets to decide whether or not to act violent.
The player or gamer gets to decide whether or not to act violent. And acting as though kids are the only ones playing these games is ignorant, selfish, and ungrateful to your OWN kids. As I have researched on this topic, there is no link between video games and violence. Also as I was saying before, the average gamer is about 25 - 32 years old. You shouldn't say only teens are playing this. And, as the parents, I will also like to see your reasons. Video games WILL NOT prepare a kid for real violence in reality or the real world.
Posted by: AnonymousI turned out great.
From what I am reading, the people that say "yes" talk about young children playing violent video games, but I played tons of violent video games in my past and present and I turned out great. I have good grades in school like As, Bs, and Cs and so do my friends that play with me online. We are playing Black Ops Zombies all night and most of all day, so I say that violent video games do NOT cause bad behavior.
Posted by: AnonymousIt is not a problem because video games don't make non-violent people violent.
How is it that people think that it's OK to ban the Call of Duty games when the games aren't the problem? The problem is the part of the brain that differentiates between right and wrong. If you think it is alright to kill someone then you are messed up and need help. It is not the violent games causing the problem.
Posted by: Anonymousno they do not
based no what I am reading most of you are referring to people under the ages of 18 which is reasonable due to the fact that audiences that mostly play the game are under that age. I myself am 13 and researching this for a project and I as well play COD Black Ops II along with every other COD game since 4. I started playing these games at the age of 8 along with many of my friends and none of us have displayed violent behavior. The only thing with I've done with any sort of gun is an airsoft or paintball gun.
The only things I do with them is have airsoft wars and that is a hobby that many have.Posted by: MrDissagreeNo, they're not connected at all.
As a lifelong gamer, I have played many rated M games and many Call of Duty and Halo games, which are some of my favorite, and they are also two most grossing series of games of all time. People think that violence in the video cause real world violence, but studies show that normal people without any mental illnesses have no repercussions playing violent video games.
Posted by: AnonymousMy friends and I play "violent" video games
I am a senior in high school and I have ten very close friends. We have all played video games since we were children and we are the most un-confrontational people in the school. We have debated this in class and other students have actually used our group as an example of how video games do not create violent people. We don't even hurt flies. Seriously. My friend, Adam, catches flies and lets them outside.
Posted by: AnonymousDon't be condescending
Many critics of violence in video games are adults. They all seem to feel that kids do not have the brain capability to differentiate between make-believe and reality. Now this might be true for, say, ten year olds, but by and large older kids are smart enough to realize what is bad and what is good. That said, parents still need to play a role in what their kids are getting. I mean, an eleven year old with GTA IV is not the best of ideas. In the end though, video games don't really make people violent anymore than watching movies or TV.
Posted by: Anonymous1 out of 10
One out of ten people commit crimes and that one percent is usually because the person that commited the crime is probaly unstable in there head and is crazy. Video games don't cause violence so why can't you just get that through your head. NO VIOLENCE FROM VIDEO GAMES THAT'S IT THE END.
Posted by: AnonymousDepends on people's maturity.
I have been playing bunches of violent video games and it hasn't changed my behavior. Back then, when was I'm younger, it caused lots of different behavior problems to me, mostly violent. But when I got much older, now it has no effect on me. It depends on people's maturity. If your child(ren) are getting too many behavior problems, best to take it away and wait until they mature.
Posted by: AnonymousThere not the age the should not play
Clearly they are not old enough to play the game in the first place. Stores should go by the age limit
of the video game that being sold and if a child has mood problems and start to renact the games the parents are the ones to blame for not watching there kid plus if they get a gun and do crime parents should lock them up that's the parents fault that's how I feel about the whole issue.Posted by: AnonymousNope, totally wrong.
Tell me, what video games have humanity been playing for the past 3000 years, then?
What with the Crusades, the civil wars, the invasions. I bet the ancients where playing some hardcore stuff thats like GTA or Call of Duty.
What version of Counter Strike did they play?
Stupid statement is stupid.Posted by: AnonymousI can't help but facepalm at all these silly parents on the 'Yes' side.
Saying video games cause bad behaviour problems is like saying that for example, "Johnny murdered Sally because he likes to wear blue socks". It actually makes no sense at all. In fact, I owe the majority of everything I know to video games, from spelling all the way down to facts and statistics about the world around us, and personally without video games I am more than 100% sure I would not have a clue what I am interested in as a future career path, Astronomy that is. I can imagine however that for example if a young naive child were to play nothing but violent video games for the first 10 years of his/her life, and no other types of video games, that it may cause a biased world view, and in rare cases behaviour problems, but even in those rare cases it would not happen without some form of other influence to their behaviour, i.E. Perhaps parents or friends arguing or demonstrating irresponsibility, etc, and even then, violent video games would be a minor contribution to such behaviour, and this goes all the same for violent movies & T.V. Shows.
Thanks if you read all that, sorry if it was a bit long.
~Jack, 16.Posted by: AnonymousStop Blaming Games
It deals with the brain itself. Not on the games they are playing... If people can not tell fiction from non-fiction then the brain is not working correctly. If people can not tell right from wrong and they are getting A's in school. Then their parents failed as parents, since it is the parents job to teach their kids about right and wrong.
Posted by: AnonymousIt doesnt.
Just because someone plays violent video games, doesn't mean they will become violent, or angry. I play violent video games constantly, and I'm fine. It is the mental stability of the child, along with the parental supervision, and upbringing. If you don't want your kids playing those games, don't buy them. Don't allow them to play. The average gamer can distinguish between real life and video games, and dont get sucked into believeing it is real life.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not cause bad behavior in kids
Violent video games and any other video game for that matter are all meant for enjoyment and entertainment. How can you say that children become more violent just because they play a videogame? You don't see kids walking down the street mowing people down with AK 47's like in call of duty or beating up strippers for money like grand theft auto. You can say studies show this and that but out of all of those kids that you say are aggressive how was their parenting when they were growing up. I would bet money on that their parents are to blame and their kids just stood out for attention. Trust me, I'm a kid that plays video games. I know what its like.
Posted by: AnonymousIt just isn't logical! And parents need to raise their kids!
A large amount of the US population plays violent video games. But the US isn't over-run with murderers, thugs, and thieves! Just because you play violent video games, you are not a murderer. That is like saying if you play an NFL game you are a master athlete, if you play Left 4 Dead you are a zombie hunter, and if you play nyan cat you can frickin' fly. It's just not logical! Also parents are to blame! If you have raised your child right, they will not be a murderer. Teach your children. Obviously, if you don't give two craps about your child and let them play violent video games, then most likely, they will be violent! If parents are too lazy to raise their own children, they can't just blame the video games that THEY bought for their children. Nuff' said.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo Games do the complete opposite!
I have been playing video games since I could spell. And I have never, ever considered killing, hurting, or even harming a living being for no reason. In fact they make me want to do the complete opposite. For example the controversial level in Modern Warfare 2, "No Russian", when I killed all those civilians (I didnt know I had the option no to) I felt terrible, and I made me wonder how terrorist could do such a thing. Another game for example, Mortal Kombat. I've been playing that forever, and I never once considered doing a fatality on my friends (I don't even think a regular human can preform some of these anyways!) or using a kombo to take down my parents. Overall I compeletly disagree with the posts to my left!
Posted by: AnonymousReal life problems cause violence
I do believe that game addiction (just like any other addiction) is very unhealthy. It's important for gamers to find a right balance for a healthier lifestyle. However, I don't believe that it will always lead to real-life violence. I have played games since I was 7. I used to watch my brother play gta vice city, I started playing it myself when I was 12 and still do up to this day (I'm 17 now). And never in my life have I had the urge to hurt someone, steal, etc. Why? Because there is no need to. I have everything I need and a family and friends who love me. It's not easy to turn a privileged healthy child into a blood thirsty criminal over a game. Of course we've all heard stories about kids committing crimes and it having to do with "games." But games are just the scapegoat the media and lazy parents use. These kids have serious psychological issues, they've been bullied, don't have good family connections, or are just plain unhappy. my point is, it's the things in real life that cause problems. It's those things that will eventually lead to violence if they're not handled properly. Games can either release that stress or exercise/build up your anger, but it's not what creates the criminal.
Posted by: AnonymousNot the games fault
Violent people cause violence. Nobody takes into account that violent gamers play the game because they are violent. Yes games will make you more aggressive for a short time after the game but if you are a civilized person violence will probably not occur after video games. I admit that young children should not be brought up playing violent games.
Posted by: AnonymousStudies show no serious links to violence.
Many studies show that violent video games have no link to violence. Even the ones that do show short-term increase in heart rate and blood pressure and competitive thoughts, similar to the effects of playing a competitive sport. Another one shows that viewing a picture of a snake or crispy bacon or playing a game of chess have the same effects as violent video games. That can't be that bad, now can it?
Posted by: AnonymousI do not believe that violent video games cause behavior problems, if used responsibly.
I see a lot of people saying that they've seen five year old children playing Call of Duty and that it is bad for them. Well, of course its bad for them - no child that young should be playing a violent video game that is rated M and is meant only for people 17 or older. The parents of those children should be responsible and not let a child that young play such a violent game.
Posted by: AnonymousWhy Would They
If someone is playing violent video games then they should be able to handle it, after all they are more of a release to people than anything else. Whenever I'm angry I go on a video game and blow things to shreds, and when I walk away I'm feeling better than I had before.
Posted by: AnonymousSo if I play fifa will I become a soccer player?
So if I play a soccer game, will that make me a professional soccer player. Violent video games wont make your children mass killers, however being sociopathic will make your children mass murderers. In addition, most kids play these types of games for the entertainment value not for the violent factor.
Posted by: AnonymousGames dont cause bad children, parents do.
Games like call of duty and battlefield are violent games, but are not the cause of violence. The cause of violence is parents allowing for their children to play these with undeveloped minds at a young age. At that time, they have a harder time separating fiction from reality, therefore, would become violent. Bad parenting is the only issue here.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not cause violence
And here's why. If video games caused violence in the US, they must cause violence in other countries right? Well apparently, a recent comparison was done between video games spending and gun related deaths between 10 different countries. They found that 9 of the countries had a rather low number of gun related deaths per 10000 people, all of which were lower than 1, while the US had 3.5. But in terms of video game spending, the U.S came in 9th out of the 10 countries, while the Netherlands spends 3 times per capita on video games compared to the US. Also since the 1970s, youth violence in the US has halved (it just doesn't seem that way, because media coverage has skyrocketed) but videogame sales have quadrupled. The thing's I've just showed you support that video games decrease violence, and that's what I believe. And one more thing for you: tell me what video games people played 5000 years ago where wars were very common.
Posted by: AnonymousGames are not bad.
If that was the case there would be a much larger number of violent people. There are countless people who have grown up playing violent games and are good citizens. People need to learn how to be responsible for their own actions. Our society in the United States encourages us to always blame something or someone else.
Posted by: AnonymousIt depends on the kid's environment.
I think video games don't cause violent behavior in the first place. It depends on a child's parenting, and their peers treating them wrongly. Sure, video games are violent. The world has violence. But it isn't the cause. If the child has mental issues or has a rough life at home, AND plays violent video games, MAYBE they will resort to violence. But this whole issue in D.C. is just silly. Video games aren't the cause!
Posted by: Anonymousno different then tv
many have stated that this is a huge issue in todays society. but many have also stated that this mainly affects, children usually just about to enter there teenage years. playing a voilent video is essentially no diffrent then watching a violent tv show. this responsiblity should left in the hands of the parent. video games have been the blame for a childs behavior when in reality they are not the direct problem the case is that the child is usually lacking something psychologically and it is very rarely a video games fault
Posted by: AnonymousPeople are wrong.
Video games don't cause violence, it's the people and their background. If they had family issues or were bullied, THEN they might act violent, but the games don't do that. Most people that think video games cause violence aren't gamers, so they don't know the effects that games cause.
ByePosted by: AnonymousThink about it.
1. Violent video games can be seen as a form of military propaganda. They make people want to join the armed forces.
2. These games increase senses of American pride. When a child plays as an American soldier, the are basically being patriots. That patriotism carries over.
3. Look at the ratio. Millions upon millions of people play these games every year. However, every year less than ten major shootings occur. Many, the cause is not determined therefore videogames cannot be blamed.
Just, think about it.Posted by: Cowboy0108I don't think they do
think of it like this, my parents think because I play Call of Duty that I am going to be a serial killer or some crazy person but just because I play Madden NFL does not mean I am going to be pro football player. I really don't think video games affect my attitude or train of thought
Posted by: AnonymousLook at my life
I enjoy playing video games. I mean, what teen doesn't like them to some degree? I grew up with games that would be classified as violent like Tekken and Mortal Kombat. I love Bioshock: Infinite and Call of Duty. Studies claim that violent video games cause increased aggression and declining school achievement. Ask anyone who knows me and they will define me as an intelligent, polite, level-headed person. I've had straight A's for years now while being in my school's honor classes in its college studies program.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, I don't think violent video games cause behavior problems.
A great amount of kids play violent video games. The age range is around 8 and above. The problem with kids' (8 to 12) behavior is because they aren't mature enough to understand that the game they're playing is a fictional simulation and has nothing to do with real life. Parents have to make sure that their kids are mature enough to understand that the game isn't real, and that killing or injuring other people is NOT something acceptable to do or good to do.
Posted by: AnonymousNO - My kids are all the Proof I need!
Balanced kids make a very clear distinction between Game vs. Life and in Life blood freaks them out and skinned knees are most painful injury ever. Just the other day my boys were in tears watching a Save the Children commercial. The way my 7yr old puts it "In the game I can do things that even real adults can't do and it's so awesome!" we have a lot of Mother-Son Bonding during and after co-op missions, ice cream and rehashing our game play, scores, or strategies. I cannot express how much joy embracing my sons interests rather than persecuting them has enriched our relationship.
Posted by: mis909Families cause behavior problems, not video games.
I, an avid video game player since the early 2000s, do not believe video games cause violent behavior. Violent behavior can instead be stemmed from family dysfunctionality. For me, video games instead offer an escape from reality, and a chance to cool down and relax. I support the stance that video games do not cause behavioral problems.
Posted by: AnonymousI disagree
Personally, I think blaming video games for an individual's behavior is somewhat ridiculous. I'm 16 and my younger brother and I have played violent games for years and have never had any effect on us at all, which is the same for most people, if a child has been brought up in a violent environment it could be different story. The majority of people playing these games know right from wrong and understand that these games are for entertainment purposes only. The age restrictions on the games are there for a reason, if you don't want your child to be associated with such games then you shouldn't allow them access to it, problem easily solved.
Posted by: AnonymousA form of stress relief
Violent vido games relieve stress. They do not cause violence, they simply prevent it. In doing so , they are doing the opposite of what people think. Just because one crazy person shot people because he played violent video games does not mean that this is how these games affect ordinary people.
Posted by: AnonymousNo no no
Violence does influence kids but violence didn't just come out of nowhere. We learn about violence, we see violence. Violence has been going on way before we were all born. The world has always been violent. Our ancestors were violent, some kids live in a violent household. Some kids just have problems.
Posted by: AnonymousViolence in video games does not cause violence in children.
If some child is playing hello kitty island adventure I don't think there is violence in that game therefore proves my point that violence in video games don't lead to child or teen violence in the real world. Slocum doesn't beat kids up in school and he is on the Call of Duty all star team.
Posted by: AnonymousIgnorance is Bliss
Being a gamer since the age of three, I have always played games and have gained many benefits from playing these games. One being a better educated individual at a very early age. I also want to have a career in this field because it's a fun opportunity and something I'm really passionate about. Reading most (not all) comments I feel that even though I'm a teenager, I feel as though I still have a valid opinion. My view point is that video games do not cause violence. The reason for this is because I believe the the majority of parents do not monitor their child's behavior and also let them play games that are not age appropriate. Games such as Call of Duty, Assassins Creed, Grand Theft Auto. etc. aren't age appropriate for kids and are meant for an older group of people. Children who are three years old weren't meant to play these games like these and parents who keep pointing fingers and blaming games are very ignorant. The problem for me is the fact that parents don't parent anymore. I have noticed that most parents don't pay attention to the rating on the game, do not monitor their children or say no when their child ask for a violent game. I have friends who work at Gamestop and they have told me stories about different situations in which parents will buy the above mentioned games just because their child asks. My friend wanted to do an experiment one day to test a theory. A mother walks into the store with her child and asks for the recent Grand Theft Auto. The employee, before handing her a copy of the game, explains that it has intense violence, sexual activity, and suggestive language, the mother immediately tells her child "I'm not getting you this game." The child says in response "But everyone on my bus has it." She changes her mind in an instant and buys him this game. This is one of the reasons for why I believe video games do not cause violence.
Posted by: AnonymousIf violent behaviour occurs from video games, the intent is already there.
It's true that if one plays multiple hours on video games (of any sort) one could lose sense with reality and therefore this could cause behavioural problems. However, it is not the video game itself which has caused this as such, because the previous statement is true for all video games. Video games do not cause violent behaviour- if they did, there would be hundreds of shootings in one city everyday. Although violent games may be linked to some behavioural problems, the ability to have this problem was already there.
Also, I must mention that violent video games are usually an 18, meaning that the adult takes full responsibility for what they are watching. If you wish to ban these games, then you would also have to ban; violent tv programmes, violent films, violent plays, music with violent connotations.Posted by: lowenRidiculous
Ridiculous. This is just ridiculous. Video games do not cause behavior problems. I have and still play violent video games and i have never thrown a punch in my life. Nor have i ever even told someone off. Im a female gamer and i am perfectly normal. (Normal in the sense that i dont act aggressively.) I beleive people just use video games as an excuse to justify why their children, teenagers, anyone act out. Seriously this shouldnt even be an issue. You cant base the entire world's population's behavior on the exception that SOME people have unstable minds and cant tell fantasy from reality. For those specal cases, just take away the game. Dont go stating it as a fact. Its not like im here bashg my head against the wall...
Posted by: AnonymousOther, real factors must be taken into account.
We can't just pin all the blame on violent video games. I've played video games from a young age, many of them violent, but I find that it hasn't affected me at all. I have a short temper, but I know that it's part of my nature. I haven't re-enacted these games because I can tell the difference between right and wrong. The parent has a responsibility in teaching their children, and not just in buying their child a violent video game. When it comes to the subject of violence in the past, people have always pinned it on something else - television, movies, novels, and comic books - instead of focusing on the person. I hope this becomes a dead issue, but I fear that the next thing that comes along in the future will receive the same treatment.
Posted by: AnonymousMaintenance and Moderation is key.
Parents need to know if their children are too impressionable or unsuitable for video games. Video games are devices that stimulate the mind through various ways. They also allow one to bond with others. I play video games all the time with friends and not only do I have a lot of fun, I've learned a lot of philosophical ideas from it that can be applied to the real world. If you are a parent and you're allowing your child to be exposed to violence at a young age be wary that they will be influenced. Some children are just more impressionable. You have to know your child. If video games are bad, you might as well say TV is bad, and movies are bad. TV and movies have violence, and cursing, and suggestive themes too. Video game companies are your child's parents.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo Games are a perfectly good way for people to release stress and have a good time
People get angry, it's just a fact of life. Violent video games give you a way to express your anger in a safe way that doesn't effect others. Sure, difficult bosses and such may be difficult to beat and increase your anger, but it really depends on the video game. All in all, video games are creative, and imaginative. It is a way to do things that you would never do in real life!
Posted by: AnonymousDefinitely Not
When someone plays a violent video game they have no control of what they are thinking. But I guarantee that not one kid thinks that they are going to kill somebody. And plus if you look at some games they can be educational. Take a look at Assassins Creed 3. The game is based on real characters and real events in the past from the Revolutionary War. It's basically an educational game that is teaching you about the war and what it was like back then. Plus some games out based on the choices you make like The Walking Dead. These are called Strategy games and these games improve brain performance. So basically violent games don't cause violent behaviors UNLESS the game is a game like GTA were you just go around killing people. Then kids will just think its fun. Then violence affects the game.
Posted by: AlecBeast6I'm 15 and Play tons of Violent Video Games.
I'm nonviolent (actually a pacifist) and have been playing games since I was 3. The first game I can remember playing was Rainbow 6 on nintendo 64. I'm nonviolent and get solid B's. My Mother buys me games every so often, however I play them everyday after I am done rehearsing for my musical.
Posted by: AnonymousA lean slightly towards the No
On the left side (according to the right), there are the parents who won't want to be blamed for their bad parenting.
On the right(according to the left side), are the irresponsible kids who get badly influenced by these items of violent nature.
I believe that these children are going through Puberty which leads to unusual behavior. These cases being mentioned and the research being may potentially be wrong due to the nature of their mental state.Posted by: AnonymousNo, they don't affect behavior.
The behavior as result of the game depends on how violent the person already is. If the person gets really mad when they lose then the will get mad a lot with the games. In shooting games there are more opportunities to lose. Every time you see some one there is a chance of losing the gunfight. People get mad and act aggressive because they lose. Not cause of the game is violent. When I get mad its because of that.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, video games don't cause behavior issues.
If you want to cause a shooting it isn't because of video games, it's because your already mentally ill. I myself also play video games. The way I see it video games are a temporary escape from reality and a form of entertainment, just like movies. Therefore video games shouldn't be banned anywhere and do not cause behavior issues.
Posted by: AnonymousWhat makes you think it causes bad behavior?
I think the cause of video game related violence is because the child is already psychotic to begin with. They would take the game out of the screen, and think its okay. This would cause the child to begin wondering how they could pull off such a horrible thing. Like the Boston Bombing, The man was most likely mentally unstable. Me, being 13, have never had thoughts of being a killer or murderer. I have played violent video games most my life, and I never thought it was cool. I always knew these were just games, and that if I did that, it would cost other's lives to make me think mine is better.
Posted by: AnonymousSMH at some people.
Violent games do NOT cause behavior problems. Before people started playing violent games what did the people blame violence on? Atari? Come on now, this is just another way people can point fingers at a different problem than the actual one. Maybe its the household they were brought up in; abusive parents? Neglectful parents? Maybe its the friends the parents allow them to hangout with. Do you see a pattern here? Maybe its a poor household that needs money so they go out and rob people. No one will truly know because parents will always reject the idea that maybe they screwed up. This kinda reminds me of the idea of McDonalds making people fat, no its you eating so damn much McDonalds it makes you fat. Before you know it we will be blaming cats for the crappy economy.
Posted by: Annonymous11I PLAY GAMES LIKE GRAND THEFT AUTO
I play games like grand theft auto and lots of other violent video games. and just because i play violently on there i dont in reality, infact i find myself as a polite young man who helps others when they need it.
so NO video games dont make you violent!Posted by: AnonymousHow about no.
I have been playing video game since I was 9. That does include violent game. I am now 15 and have no issues whatsoever. In fact, I'd say it made me calmer. It gave me an easy chance to relieve myself from stress without getting into real trouble. I don't think violent video games cause these problems in the world.
Posted by: BenRaschkaParents and politicians need to stop scapegoating.
From personal experience, I know that violence in video games are not connected. I do, however, believe that it can cause some temporary aggression. I swear, get angry when I lose, and get annoyed by other people. I also notice that these effects wear off after turning my game off. I am always respectful away from my game and never peeped a swear word. So yes, violent video games can cause some temporary behavior change, but there is no evidence that there is any long term behavior issues in children that are mentally stable. 4-7 year olds might be affected more than children older then 8, but that's because their minds are still developing and understanding right from wrong. Parents are the ones who can purchase violent video games, so if there is anyone to blame, its parents buying their little 5 year olds Call of Duty. Don't blame violent video games if your children aren't meant to play it. There's a reason for the rating.
Posted by: AnonymousNo they don't
Video games help more the anything. I have been playing video games, most violent, and my behavior has not chanced a bit. My had eye coordination and reflexes have improved drastically due to playing video games. There is a lot of good in playing video games, just because they're violent does not mean they are bad.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not cause violence, WE DO!
Millions of people play video games every year but only about 3 people a year create a massacre. Video games became a target for the causes of violence because people believe it is a simple answer and they do not want to believe people are naturally violent, they want to believe there is a cause and video games is the simplest choice.
Posted by: AnonymousI am a gamer and proud of it!
It's not reality, and everyone knows that. Now if we are talking about a young child or teenager playing a violent video game and becoming violent themselves then the parents need to be held accountable. You have to be 17 years old or older to walk in and buy a violent video game (which typically does state on ESRB M rated). Its a shame on parents for allowing them to play a game that is strongly advised of the violence in it.
Posted by: Anonymousthe winning or loosing
People usually get mad when they loose in a game. For example if you loose lets say in a sports game you want to win the guy online you get ticked off if you dont. Sometimes when my brother was younger he would play GTA or COD he would re-act the scene messing around like "DANGO DOWN" ! But no bad behavior i think its the loose win effect.. You loose your cranky,you win your happy (:
Posted by: Evilcat2Why video games?
What about other medias like the internet, movies and TV? These medias have more violent content than a video game. With the technology nowadays, children are able to go onto websites that content sexual and violent just with his/her smartphone. I did some research on the web and found out that 67% of the families in USA have at least one gaming console at home and spend an average time of 20 hour playing video games per week. With the gaming industry growing bigger as well as more people (mostly age 18-49) starting to play or accept video games into their life, the crime rate in USA is getting lower. If you say video games cause violent behavior, why is the crime rate getting lower? I have been a gamer for more than 10 years and I've learned a-lot from just video games. I've gained not only knowledge, also learnt language, history, social skills, teamwork and more. So why not video games?
Posted by: AnonymousIt's a stress reliever.
I have been playing video games for years now and it has not made me violent. In fact has made me more relaxed even. When something stressful happens I go to video games because it relieves me of stress. In fact, in recent years fewer and fewer minors have been going to Juvenile Detention while sales of video games have been steadily increasing.
Posted by: AnonymousThey Do Not
I have been playing violent video games since I was 7. I'm 16 and I have a very healthy life while playing these violent video games. In all honesty, It is the person's choice to do stupid things like this, not the video game. So please get your facts right.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not cause violence.
Violent video games do not cause violence, however, may intensify pre-existing aggressive tendencies. The recent debate was sparked as a result of public hysteria. It's simple, 29 people in Newtown, Connecticut were killed, hence, gun control is in an uproar. Now that the NRA is under the spotlight, yet again another National organization has started another crusade on the media in North America.
Posted by: AnonymousHere's my two bits...
Hello, there, everyone. I'm a pretty hard-core gamer, have been since I was four or five. I'm also a psychoanalyst and psychiatrist by trade. Let me tell you something interesting, 'k? I was working with a patient (name withheld for obvious reasons) a few years ago, who had severe anger management issues. He would fly off the handle at a moment's notice, usually over something very small. The incident in question happened on one of his... Calmer days. He walked into my office, sat down in one of the chairs I have set up for my patient's use, and started telling me of a time when he had felt particularly angry. The session went well, with no real problems of any sort. No real problems, that is, until he went to leave. That's when he noticed a particular object on my desk: a copy of the original Mortal Kombat game for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, or SNES. This particular copy was my pride and joy: I kept it in a glass case, safe from the world, in exactly the same condition it was in when I bought it back in November of '92. My patient saw this almost priceless bit of gaming history, and flew into the greatest rage I had seen him in yet! He charged to my desk, screamed a few choice words about the great moral wrong of video games, and hurled my crowning trophy out the window, where it plummeted four stories and... SMASH! Shattered into a thousand pieces in the street. What, you may ask, was the point of this story? I'll tell you: my patient, the most angry, violent man I have ever met, had never, not once in his life, played a single video game, and yet the level of rage and violence he displayed was something which, according to many of the arguments on here, could only be a result of over-exposure to violent video games. So I suppose that what I'm saying is to never, ever, make generalizations about the "inevitable results" of exposure to any sort of media.
Posted by: AnonymousViolence is by human nature, not digital entertainment.
Here's my stance,
It is the person who imitates violent video games is the one who's to blame, not the games themselves. Even before video games come to the half of the 20th century, people get violent without even playing them. From wars to wars and massacres to massacres, humans commit the heinous acts. The possibilities that cause people to be violent include a lack of communication, social dispute, poor discipline and bad parenting.
Games like Grand Theft Auto, Battlefield, Street Fighter, Ninja Gaiden seriously don't make me violent, they're for entertainment, interaction and immersion. People keep using violent video games as a scapegoat to ruin the industry. It's simple that humans still lack common sense in today's society. I don't care how smart we are, we still do stupid things like monkeys. Besides, digital entertainment to make people violent is not scientifically proven. It's best to stop yourself and stop your kids from playing video games I play. It's a distraction from schoolwork and indeed an addiction. Have your kids play outside an hour a day and watch cartoons suitable for their age.Posted by: AnonymousViolent Video Games are Not the Problem!!
I play violent video games a lot, but you don't see me trying to kill people in real life. It all depends on how the person is raised and how their social life is. If they have low or no social activity and feel left out most of the time then yes, there may be a problem with them playing violent video games. But it's the parents fault for letting that person play these games. The best way to fix this problem is to start out letting your child play low violent games then as they grow up you can slowly let them play more aggressive games. This method works, because the child will become more mature as he/she progresses in violence of video games.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's Common Sense
All it takes is common sense and good parenting to know how to act. Kids aren't violent because they play video games, it's because that's how they were raised or they can't comprehend real life situations. I hate when people say that ,"Bobby killed 15 people because he played a video game." It's because of his behavior, not the game! How many good natured people play games all the time??
Posted by: AnonymousIt causes violence
I thing video games cause violence. Because people get aggressive over the control. People fight and argue over ps3, or Xbox. People let their children play games all day. That is something that should not be allowed. Parents also let their children stay home from school to play video games.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do good not bad
Videos games are pretty much stress relievers to the world. Anything that's wrong with someone, namely violence, is the PARENT'S fault not video games. Parents who complain about their kids being violent probably aren't very good parents looking for an easy excuse like the video games they bought for their kids.
Posted by: AnonymousIt all starts with the parents.
There's plenty of claims that Call of Duty will make your kid go on a rampage and shoot up an entire school. Who's buying Call of Duty for the children? They don't have jobs, and they're not old enough to buy an M-Rated game. Someone else needs to do it for them. You need to know how mature your child is, whether or not they can handle the scenes in these games. I believe that the games can affect them. But their parents need to be parents, and not just let technology be their babysitter. If they get all their attention from strangers over Xbox Live instead of their parents who ignore them while browsing Facebook, you can bet they're going to have behavioral problems.
Posted by: AnonymousUsing pixels on the screen as Scapegoats
People are quick to blame other people or the entertainment industry. Simple as. There is no evidential proof that there are any links at all; all that can be said is speculation. If you argue otherwise, then you are yet another 'brainwashed' member of the media band-wagon. If you were to have experience in the game industry, you would understand that there is no connection between pulling a trigger on a Controller and on a real gun. Nor is there any educational purpose in these games. Playing FIFA does not teach you to have moves like Messi, similar to Call Of Duty not teaching you how to Snipe an entire team in seconds.
However it would be completely bias to say there is no effect on the mind, what we see is stored in our heads whether we like it or not. Any human, young or old, understands the difference between reality and a virtual space. Video games take up time, taking kids of the streets and allowing kids to take out there anger on a harmless game. Yes anger can be caused, however any parent that does not control their child's anger issues is a bad parent. If [you] notice your kid getting over involved in a game, then you should tell them to calm down. This allows the child to understand the need to remain calm in situations and understand the reality of the situation and how it means nothing in real life.
People really should understand the fundamental basics on this topic and stop believing what they are told, the papers will deceive you and trick you into seeing patterns in randomness. Video games until further proved otherwise, will never-ever, have a direct link to behaviour problems.
WillPosted by: AnonymousA form of Visual Enhancement
Action games make you more aware of your surroundings, up to 75% more then a non-gamer, and is helpful for rehabilitating the visually impaired.
Posted by: AnonymousI Think Not
Personally, I play video games regularly, and sometimes more than I should, but I don't play them to fantasize about blowing someones head off. I play them to keep up with friends, have competition and challenge. If a child is becoming more inappropriate it's the communities culture that influenced them.
Posted by: AnonymousPlease, Just NO
I have played many violent video games and I do not think they have affected my behaviour in anyway. Maybe my thinking but it doesn't drive me to try to kill anyone I love or even someone I barely even know. I strongly think that violent video games is just a fun pastime or a good way to vent anger. People could also pretend to be someone heroic in a violent video game that they are not able to do in real life and thus playing a game about it. I would never try anything in a violent video game and I hope others won't too.
Posted by: AnonymousDon't believe everything you see
I don't think violent video games would always lead to violence in people. I have been playing video games since I was 4, nothing bad happened. Young people shouldn't be playing violent video games, parents need to step in and lay down some restrictions if that happens.
Video games are a fun, and safe way to relieve of stress from the world. If violent video games were disposed of, why don't we dispose of everything else that can be possibly dangerous, like candy, internet, cars etc. You people need to think clearly of whats going on behind the scenes.Posted by: AnonymousThe argument that violent video games cause most of violence today is far too simplistic.
My friends and cousins play violent video games and have never committed a violent crime. You have to take into account that some of these murderers have a mental problems. Lets say that these murderers drank Coca-Cola, this does now mean that everyone that drinks Coca-Cola is going to murder? These video games have an age-rating on them for a reason and if parents think these are causing problems, then they should not allow their children to play such games. If these games were to be banned then they would have to ban all violent things, including some Sacred Texts. So are we now not allowed to read our Sacred Texts? In the USA such games make 21 billion dollars a year! If they were to be banned, the government would lose a lot of money.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games do not encourage violence
Most mental health experts do not feel that video games encourage violence or criminal behavior. Proof: Steven silvern of Auburn university has done two in-depth studies and has found no link between video game play and agression.
---
Anyways, if people check the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) and select appropriate games, there might be no influence to any violence.Posted by: AnonymousVideo games stimulate the brain and do not cause problems.
The truth is that all games stimulate the brain. If you simulate your brain then you are more likely to get better grades in school and do better in life too. Games do stimulate because you need to think of a plan to get to the other team's base or figure out the puzzle etc.
Posted by: AnonymousIt is just a game--it's their problem if they decide to become violent.
I play violent games and nothing has happened to me. I do not think that by playing violent games you will become violent. So no, it will only make you violent if you can make yourself violent. Everyone has a choice so stop saying that video games will make you violent because they won't.
Posted by: AnonymousNo way man.
All information found about video games promoting violence is circumstantial and easily debatable. More information has been found about the positive effects of video games. This included increased reaction times and teamwork skills. Video games are beneficial in healthy doses just like food. Too much of anything can harm you. :)
Posted by: AnonymousWe can't blame our video games for bad behavior.
It is not the kids who become violent because of video games but the people whom have already been violent before. That would be like saying that pencils make you spell wrong. The only time a child would become violent from these games is if they were to let themselves go.
Posted by: AnonymousA child would have to be ALREADY angry before becoming violent; a video game would only show them a way to express their emotions.
While the video games may have given some kids an idea of, say, a WAY to beat somebody up, the actual feelings behind what motivated any violent behaviour were already there. If a child who had no quarrels with anybody and was emotionally perfectly healthy; picking up a violent video game and playing it would not make them violent, because they had no feelings which would motivate violence in the first place. The child would already have to be feeling angry or upset with somebody before they became violent, a video game would just show them a way to express their feelings.
Posted by: KathyrnThe reason why violent video games do not affect children.
The reason being is because if your child is responsible and you teach them right , then they will know better and know that it's just a game and shouldn't have an effect on their actual life. Your child should understand that just because they see doesn't mean they have to do it. For example, if your child sees someone jumping off the bridge, they're going to jump too. That's what you are saying because you say they see violence, then they do violence.
Posted by: teshikaVideo games don't cause violence.
Me, I'm only 12 and I play video games a lot, but I'm a guy so that's normal. I don't do anything violent. I will come home from school all stressed out, but once I play Halo 3, I feel way much better. Although I think people exaggerate a little, but there's one of those kids that will do this.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent video games aren't responsible for violent kids.
Video games are works of virtual reality. They allow users kids to experience many different aspects of life. Sometimes, you play a criminal breaking the law, but sometimes you play an officer upholding the law. In many role-playing games, you can avoid violence altogether because you choose whether your character is good or bad. And, in the end, they are still games. There are actually some great benefits to video games. They are known to improve hand-eye coordination.
Posted by: AnonymousRestrictions are already put in place.
Games are rated depending on their content. If an underage kid gets a hold of a M for Mature game, its on whoever gave it to them, and in turn any influence that comes from it is theirs to deal with. Even so, children and teens can discern fiction from reality; it's a basic concept. If any violent behavior came about from an individual, a virtual reality would not be the cause of it. Outside influences and mental state have far bigger influences on what a person chooses to do. People aren't so stupid to go out killing because they saw it in a game. Either they were raised to think that is acceptable(being the parents' fault) or their life was already hellish enough to act on impulse. Blaming it on games is just an excuse.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's Bad Parenting that does.
Bad parenting causes children to become bad people and to have bad behavior. The parents need to tell their children that this is just a game that this is not real life. Granted this happens in real life but the child will not know this until they have grown up to become adults and know that it is very bad to do something of that sort. It is not the games only the parents.
Posted by: FirebidThis is the truth.
If violent video games made you violent THINK about this there are millions of people who play violent video games. Yes, I just said it. There would be millions of mass murderers and tons of schools shootings and robbers looting stores. Also think about how many kids play violent video games at a young age. If you play COD you realize the majority of players are 8+, not 17+ but 8. So there you have it. This is why violent video games do not affect your behavior (otherwise I'd be a mass murderer/robber and wanted by the police everywhere).
Posted by: AnonymousIf they did we would see more violence.
With the popularity of video games you would certainly see much more violence if they were related. Why aren't kids running over people with cars? Why aren't there many more high speed chases? Why aren't people dressing up as superheroes and rescuing people or preventing crime? The reason none of this happens is because kids understand the difference between reality and the game.
Posted by: AnonymousWhat proof do you have?
I have played video games for over 10 years. I am 14 and just got my first Call of Duty game when I was 12. I am still the same shy person who has never caused harm to others. What proof do you have that it causes violence in children?
Posted by: AnonymousVideo games only bring out the traits a person already have.
Video games are violent in certain nature, however violent video games are restricted by age and should only be played by those age groups. Studies show that children know right from wrong close to the same level as an adult. so it is the parents' job to know what they are buying for their children, and if these kids play the video games that are pproved for their age groups then they will grow up to be as normal as anybody else. So the problem lies in the parents restricting their kids to the proper games.
Posted by: AnonymousIf you're old enough to play, you're old enough to not be affected.
If people are trying to re-enact things from a game, clearly they are not old enough to play the game in the first place. Playing a violent video game is no different from watching a violent movie in that if you are sensible enough to enjoy the film, you are sensible enough to enjoy the game without letting it making you more violent!
Posted by: AnonymousThis accusation is a rushed way to blame something and the government blamed the first thing they saw.
I am a gamer and gamers just use video games just to release stress and/or to drown out the outside world. Gamers understand better than anyone else that games are a way to have fun and that we don't worship the devil because we bought a disc that said "Call of Duty" or "Halo 4" or even "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim"
Posted by: AnonymousIf you think, you know that video games are not to blame.
No, video games should not be blamed. They get children's' aggression and anger out and kids know what is real and what is not. But if it's a little kid, they should not be allowed to play any shooting games. So you should always think before you even decide on blaming on video games.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's just a game.
Violent video games do not cause behavior problems. If you had a problem bad enough that you are going to go out and kill people you had that problem anyway; the game didn't do anything to make you do that. Also it's just a game. If you are a parent reading this you can get violent games for your kids.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, they do not cause a change in behavior.
They don't cause change in behavior, but they can give people with cancer hope and help people with disabilities feel like they are in control and matter in the world. I've done the research online and in books they help people in many ways. If there are a couple of instances that point towards video games being violent, then oh well. But you can't put the entire blame on video games and media. There is violence all over the world and you can't get rid of all of it, its been happening since the beginning of time. So we can't change it then or now.
Posted by: AnonymousIt releases anger.
Playing violent video games releases anger for a ton of people. I have heard many of my friends say "I'm mad; I'm going to go kill some people on Call of Duty." It's better then hearing them say, "I'm going to go jump someone because I'm mad" or "I'm going to start a fight" or something. I do play video games. My top would have to be Call of Duty. I don't play it all the time, but when I do, it's for like one or two hours at a time. Yes, I'll admit when I get mad, I like playing Call of Duty. Well, here's my life story. When I was in high school, I used to be a bully, then my parents had me go to a therapist and they recommended I try playing a violent video game. Now, I don't know if you guys can remember the first Metal Gear Solid for the PS1? That was the first violent video game I played, and I am telling the truth when I say it changed me for the better; it got rid of all my stress, and it helped me decrease my anger. I wasn't a bully anymore. I loved those games, but I am not an addict to them and I don't have to play it if it doesn't have a routine.
Posted by: AnonymousThey don't cause behavior problems
Almost all violent video games are rated M for mature. Kids who play these games cannot be blamed. The parents are the one who buy the game. If you buy a rated M game you must be 17 or older or need a parent. Therefore it is not the child's fault if they are mental. The parent should know. The employee tells you this.
Posted by: AnonymousIt isn't real
In video games you pretend to be a main character and, in most games you kill. But if the brain is working properly, it will differentiate real and fake. It will also teach us about historical examples. You will also get pushed to try harder, to level up and get rewards, and when you lose you must try harder, so all honesty video games are good, not bad
Posted by: AnonymousNo, but it needs to be controlled
Playing violent games shouldn't be a problem. People need to be introduced to such things, but it needs to be controlled. Parents need to explain such experiences to their kids. Age should dictate how violent the games should be. There's a reason video games have a age rating on them. There are a lot of people who play violent video games who do not become killers. If someone has a mental illness they will most likely be the ones effected by the game, They may take it too seriously and that may lead to the worse, but that's the illness' effect, not the video game. Even without the video games they would still be ill and may become a killer.
Posted by: AnonymousReally? Of course not.
Video games CAUSE nothing. It's how the children are raised and whether or not they already have an addictive/obsessive personality. Video games are just a form of harmless entertainment. If anything, I think it's a way for people to vent their naturally occurring anger and frustrations. It's the individual, not a little video game.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's the parents, If they don't like the video games then maybe they shouldn't buy their 5 or 6 year old child the games.
Now, I am a gamer. I play Call Of Duty, Modern Warfare, etc. But it has no affect on me what so ever. I am doing a research paper on how violent video games affect a young child's mind. I have found out by various websites that if you buy a child a violent video game, that is a 10-years-old or below that it can effect their brain. So it's totally the parents fault if they turn violent, not the kids because they don't know any better.
Posted by: AnonymousDon't blame the games!
I have been an avid video gamer for some time now and I can honestly say it is not the games causing the bad behavior of people playing the games. Video games could pull the metaphorical trigger to bad behavior but the life of the person in question is what leads to the behavior problems. I personally have not met an avid gamer on the other side of this debate. So, from my personal experience, the people saying video games do cause behavioral problems do not actually know about the games. But I may be wrong, of course.
Posted by: AnonymousThey most definitely do not, as there are other aspects to them that are more prevalent.
Good arguments on both sides, but in the end video games are still not the source of violence. Too many other factors weigh in, and the top ones being age group and mindset. First of all, all the arguments about kids playing violent video games are invalid. As a parent, if you're letting your little kids do ANYTHING violent, then fingers point back to you. In younger years it is up to parents to decide whether or not a child or adolescent should be playing violent video games, but whether or not that actually happens, well no one actually has control over an individual's parenting. Also, if you know that you child has a mental disability, the parent should be the responsible one to not allow violent video games, as they are more prone to taken it "too seriously". And parents' arguing is not a contributing factor; I'm talking about abuse in its many shapes, (drugs, mental, and physical). On a more personal I had a hard time being raised and growing up, but violent video games have not swayed me towards violence in any way, shape or form. It was the opposite; violent video games were more of a stress reliever and allowed me to let go of that stress with only a few clicks of buttons. I understand that not everyone thinks like I do, but my point is that to actually cause violence, the person who plays violent video games would have to have a history of violence or many contributing factors, such as certain hardships growing up (family violence in particular as I mentioned above), or just straight up brain damage leading to the inability to differentiate reality from fantasy.
Posted by: Reni-1_3How do video games make you become violent?
They do not make you crazy people that support this are either brainwashed by the media or never played video games of this generation. Let me ask you people something when you go to the almighty shooting range you are being trained to shoot targets on the wall with a real gun. Now tell me is that violent are you shooting for entertainment? But you people say pushing buttons on a controller is violent there are crazy people out there we had massacres before tv and video games. Did Al Capone play Scarface before he killed people no he did not there will always be murders out there. People say there to violent for kids well don't be dumb and buy them call of duty and say wow look how violent this is for my kid they should not make games like this. Do not allow your kids to play these games if you think they are to violent they got parental control on every box and PlayStation 3 learn to monitor it like you would with your tv.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent Actions are the behavioral problem not the cause!
The cause of ones violent actions is determined by their spiritual and mental state of being. A person who wants to be violent will be even if they just finished watching Mary Poppins or playing a game of Candy Land! Let's spend more time focusing on a solution for violent people rather then a false cause.
Posted by: AnonymousYOUR choices, YOUR consequences
I played my first game of Halo in the middle of 2nd grade, and ever since then I've gamed across all different genres and titles. Not once have I attempted jumping off anything super tall, or picking up something clearly too heavy for me. I am pro-life, and I think that putting a bullet through another human is despicable. All this talk about bad attitudes and bad grades, it comes from either an irresponsible person, or someone who had problems in the first place. If you want to go out and shoot people, that's your choice. If you can't deduce real life from something clearly projected virtually on a screen, you can't help but to be worried.
Posted by: GASXGaming23Ever heard that comic books cause violence?
Back in the day (around the 50's), it was suggested that comic books led to a rise in juvenile delinquency. Go further back, and you'll find that people also said that novels imposed negative morals upon people.
One of the arguments used was that the brain couldn't tell the difference.
While video games might be more interactive, you must take into consideration the other factors in a person's life, such as mental condition and their way of life.Posted by: AnonymousDon't go blaming games
Please do your research before you spit random nonsense onto opinionated websites. I understand that aggression and violence can be picked up from video games, but research shows that most children who become aggressive or violent after playing video games are usually violent to begin with. As a healthy reminder to those blaming video games for such audacity as to corrupt youth mind, be aware that there IS an ESRB rating on video games, so parents can be aware of what games are Age appropriate. It's not rocket science people, just don't go placing blame on the innocent, when there could be another culprit!
Posted by: mattdacatWho's to blame?
Violence in video games is not the cause of children with behavioral issues. There are so many different causes for behavioral issues such as how the parents have raised the child or maybe how the child was treated at school, but video games is definitely not one of the causes. Yes there may be a lot of violence in video games but if you have ever played a violent video game you would know that most people don't feel like shooting or killing anyone after. In fact for many people violent video games is a stress reliever. Now I am not saying that parents should be buying their kids video games, but I am just saying if you want to blame behavioral issues on anything you should be blaming it on yourself. Most behavioral issues are motivated by how a child was raised or how a child was treated. If a person was not treated right as a child then of course you can expect them to act out. You shouldn't blame violent video games for your own doing.
Posted by: AnonymousFacts, not Myths...
Violent crime, particularly among the young, has decreased dramatically since the early 1990s. During the same period of time, video games have steadily increased in popularity and use, exactly the opposite of what one would expect if there were a causal link.
Many games with violent content sold in the U.S. – and some with far more violence – are also sold in foreign markets. However, the level of violent crime in these foreign markets is considerably lower than that in the U.S., suggesting that influences such as the background of the individual, the availability of guns and other factors are more relevant to understanding the cause of any particular crime. In fact, an analysis by The Washington Post of the 10 largest video game markets across the globe found no statistical correlation between video game consumption and gun-related deaths.
Numerous authorities, including the U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Surgeon General, Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commission have examined the scientific record and found that it does not establish any causal link between violent programming and violent behavior. The truth is, there is no scientific research that validates a link between computer and video games and violence, despite lots of overheated rhetoric from the industry's detractors. Instead, a host of respected researchers has concluded that there is no link between media violence and violent crime.Posted by: AnonymousI play
I play violent games and have no criminal record at all. It's my stress release. I'd probably be more violent if I didn't play. It's the parents of the the kids who need to pay attention and discipline their kids when they see something that they want to blame the media for.
Posted by: AnonymousVideo Games are the Scapegoat for BAD PARENTS
Violent games have a rating of 17 OR OLDER FOR A REASON! If you let your kids play these games it is no ones fault but your own. It is ridiculous that people try to ban games because of their mistakes as parents. I have played games like Halo since I was 12 and I turned out fine.
Posted by: Anonymousmk
To be honest, I don't thing violent video games affect people like that. Yes, you get more stressed and angry when playing them, but that is simply gamers trying to meet the challenge. What enrages me really, is that military based games like Battlefield and Call of Duty, both of which I like and play, receive way too much MISDIRECTED FIRE from the media, when the influential games(if games influence gamers at ALL), are going to be games like Grand Theft Auto, where you basically yank someone out of a car and shoot them, and thats the whole game. Don't criticize military FPS games for the problems big city RPGs are causing!
Posted by: Anonymousi disagree
I'm 17 and am doing a position paper on this topic. the conclusion that i have come to is that about 5% of teens who play voilent video games have behavior problems in response to their games. I also think that its mostly the parents fault for kids under 17 because anyone under the age of 17 can't buy most violent video games
Posted by: illycapitilliGames Is A Tool To Forget, but rarly the root of the problems itself
people with behaveour problems tend to have a number of habbits and backgrounds that can aid in explaining their problems. I beleive factors such as: abuse, isolation and bad/lacking social environments are more important reasons for the changed behaviour. Video games are simply more appealing and comforting to these people, as it can to some degree make them forget about their real lives and worries. Besids its an effetive form for entertainment that will only grow in popularity in he years to come.
Posted by: AnonymousViolent games doesnt make people violent
Video Games don't make people violent, its stupid people who wants to be like the game who turns violent. they think that if the dude in the game could do it then they think they can do it. Also they think that it is pretty easy to do bad things yep.
Posted by: Anonymousthey just dont
i myself have been a gamer since i was about 9 years old. i am now 19 and never in my life have i thought that i could do that to a person in real life. it's completely illogical to think that violent video games cause violence in children. i've played rated M games for a vast majority of the 10 years that i've been playing video games. personally, anyone who thinks that violent video games cause violence in kids is a complete idiot. it's really the responsibility of the caretaker of that child to tell them that what they do in the game is not real.
Posted by: AnonymousIf violent games make people violet why don't I see FPS gamers shooting multiple people in real life?
Kids who are supposedly "violent" by playing shooting games are obviously very bad at controlling themselves. If violet video games were to blame, then every person who plays these games would be serial killer and mass murders. But that is not the case at all. Video games are for entertainment. Our conscience clearly tells us not to kill other people in real life.
It is more so the environment and other social factors that contribute so kids or people being violent individuals.
People have nothing better to place a blame on asides from video games.
Yes your brain may switch to other mode when you play such games but when you quit the game, you would as a normal person, switch back to your proper conscience that functions for you in your daily life.Posted by: Anonymous"cause" Is too strong a word.
Saying that video games cause behavior problems means that "kids who play violent video games HAVE behavior problems". So, no. Some kids have behavior problems. These kids with behavior problems may also play video games. Kids have had behavior problems way before video games were around. Should you blame comic books, tv programs, music, or even classic violent literature? Nope. A rational person (i.e. a person without behavior problems) of any age is perfectly capable of understanding that video games have no consequences and real violent behavior does.
Posted by: Anonymousno
You are wrong, I am right. They do, because some people think they could be the character in real life. They think it would be cool to be like the character in real life. For instance, Grand Thief Auto is a game that most people like to play and 27% of the people that play it promote violence.
Posted by: AnonymousCorrelation is NOT causation
Is there evidence that kids who play violent video games are themselves violent? Absolutely! But that's correlation, NOT causation. If anything, the more probable explanation is that certain children are more drawn to violence in general, and thus are drawn to violent video games. Not to mention that if you compare popularization of violent video games in countries with countries crime rates, there is no correlation there. Japan, one of the biggest countries for violent video games and video games in general, has the LOWEST crime rate in the world.
Posted by: AnonymousThey dont cause behavioural problems
I play violent video games myself and i dont do any of the things you do in the video game, i believe that it is the person them self which is the cause, they have a weak mind and do what the game tells them to do...
Posted by: AnonymousBased of my personal experience, I do not believe this to be the case.
I have played video games since I was a young child, especially fighting and shooting games. They have never caused me to have any issues. I was always a good child that never got into any trouble. I was a favorite of my teachers, well-behaved, and quiet. I still play video games to this day, and they do not affect my behavior.
Posted by: R4n53GambitI disagree that violent video games cause behavior problems, because only the choices people make cause violent behavior.
Video games, even violent ones, can be a good thing. But the people playing them need to be able to discern a game from reality. The choices they make in their daily lives have absolutely nothing to do with video games. In fact, they may be able to take out any aggressions that they have on a video game, rather than go out and beat someone up. Society has put a stigma on video games, because people have become too lazy to teach their children right from wrong. And the blame has to be put somewhere other than on the parent harming the child for not teaching them correctly.
Posted by: R3yn4FerIiIs it really that easy to say that violent video games cause violent behavior
In my personal opinion it is not violent video games that cause bad behavior; but it is the people and the path and decisions they have chosen that make it a bad behavior. Is it so easy to just blame someone else for something that has grown bigger and bigger. Does this "violent video game?" Cause a bad behavior or is it just that its so hard to take responsibility in our own acts. I believe that if someone is taught the difference from real and what isn't there shouldn't be a problem, it is because now a days its easier to make someone else responsible for not taking matter in our own hands. Video game industry has become an easy target for the media to blame for many modern day problems.
Posted by: Anonymous