Photo credit: miss pupik
I can’t say that this one surprised me.
Research shows that teens who regularly play violent video games are more likely to get into physical fights.
The problem is most likely that these games reinforce the idea that violence is a normal and acceptable way to react to everyday conflicts. They cause teens to perceive a violent reaction as normal.
I am raising two girls, who are not into video games and definitely not into violence. It worries me to think that as teens, they will be in contact with young boys whose perception of violence and of what’s appropriate and what’s not is distorted.
Roger Sinaohn of Parent Dish wonders if being exposed to violence in other types of media, such as television and movies, produces the same effect. I would venture a guess that yes, it most certainly does. Even for me, as an adult, being constantly exposed to violent scenes seems to raise my tolerance level towards violence. I can only imagine it has an even more profound effect on the growing brains of teenagers.
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4 Responses
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It is very hard to block violent media from kids because it is practically in any cartoon on TV. I think that the right way to deal with this is not to block TV or games but instead balance it with other activities. Naturally sports and especially team sports are a huge positive where the kids learn to respect one another and learn the subtle differences between aggression and being physical. Clearly school and home are balancing environments.
I agree it’s important to balance the exposure to violence with other, positive influences. I also think that parents do need to monitor what their kids play.
Hi Vered, I love the idea of this blog and found out about it through your interview on Cath’s blog. (GREAT interview by the way). My other blog is recommending non violent computer games/sites for kids FOR this purpose. I have seen my son’s reactions and behaviors change depending on what games he is playing, company he is keeping, etc. There are TONS of AMAZING computer games and sites that are educational AND fun. I’d MUCH rather he spend time playing a game with some value than one that will be getting him riled up which can result in his sister paying the consequences.
It is important parents are aware what their kids are playing, who their friends are, what they are watching and notice behavior changes. My son has become aware of it himself and he is 9 and uses that information to make smart decisions. Doesn’t mean it’s safe for me to close my eyes now though…. Thanks Vered — I look forward to taking a look around this blog — excellent and important content!
love, Jenny
Hi Jenny,
Thank you for your comment! I couldn’t agree more that parents must be involved in what they’re kids are doing and who they’re hanging out with. Sounds like you’re doing a wonderful job with your son. My daughter is 9 and I also agree that at their age, SOME of the responsibility can be transferred to them - they are capable of making smart choices, with guidance of course.