Introduce yourself
Since many years, the use of violent games by children is a hot topic. The debate stems from concerns about the potential negative impact of violent video games on children’s behavior. Some people believe that violent games may lead to antisocial and aggressive behavior. However, others claim that the two are not directly related. This paper will explore research into this subject and examine whether violent games can have an adverse impact on child behavior.
Literature Review
Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the impact of violent video games on children’s behavior. A study showed that children who play violent videogames are more aggressive (Anderson, et. al., 2010,). This study was based on an experimental design in which participants were randomly assigned either to play violent or nonviolent video games. Children who play violent video games display more aggressive behaviors than children who only play non-violent games. Another study found that children who played violent video games for an extended period showed a decrease in prosocial behavior (Krahé & Möller, 2010). According to this study, playing violent videogames may reduce empathy and encourage other prosocial behaviours.
On the contrary, other studies found that there was no correlation between violent games and aggressive behaviors in children. Ferguson (2015) conducted a meta-analysis and found no evidence that violence video games were linked with antisocial or aggressive behavior. This study examined 101 articles which investigated the link between violent videogames and aggressive behaviors in children. The findings suggest that other factors, such as family dynamics, may be more influential in shaping children’s behavior.
What do I want to prove?
Based on the research reviewed, it is clear that the impact of violent video games on children’s behavior is a complex issue. Some studies have shown a correlation between aggressive behaviors in children and violent video games, while others found that this was not the case. It is also important to remember that studies which have shown a correlation between video game violence and aggressive behavior in children have employed experimental design, which provides stronger evidence than correlative studies.
The social psychology theory also suggests that violence in media may lead to desensitization as well as a decline in empathy. This can contribute to aggressive behaviors (Bandura, 1977). Social learning theory suggests that people learn from observation and model (Bandura, 1986). Exposure to violent media can increase children’s likelihood of aggressive behavior.
You can also read our conclusion.
In conclusion, the impact of violent video games on children’s behavior is a complex issue that is still debated by researchers. Other studies found no correlation between violent games and bad behavior among children. It is also important to remember that studies which have shown a correlation between violent video game and bad behavior used experimental design, which provides stronger evidence than correlational study. According to social psychology, exposure to violent media may lead to desensitization as well as a decline in empathy. This can contribute to aggressive behaviors. Therefore, it is essential to monitor children’s exposure to violent media and educate them about the potential risks associated with violent video games.
References:
Anderson, C. A., Shibuya, A., Ihori, N., Swing, E. L., Bushman, B. J., Sakamoto, A., Rothstein, H. R., & Saleem, M. (2010). Violence video game effects in Eastern and Western Countries: A metaanalytical Review. Psychological bulletin, 136(2), 151–173. https://doi.org/10.1037