Violence In Computer Games – Is It A Problem?
As we move into a new era should we examine a lot of the things we do and the way we look at life? What about violent computer games for example.
The Video Game Violence Controversy:- Not surprisingly, varying opinions are held on the issue of violence in video games. Since some studies indicate that as many as fifteen percent of gamers show signs of video game addiction, the presence of violence in games is equally troubling to some.
Parents:- Many parents are concerned about the influence games have over their children. They wonder whether certain games will cause their children to exhibit aggressive behaviors which they otherwise would not.
In fact, several instances exist of children who have, in fact, planned attacks on others based on specific gameplay. At least a handful of these have actually been carried out. Parents are rightly concerned that their children are not unduly influence to display antisocial and criminal behavior.
Gamers:- The opinion of gamers on this issue is all over the map, but most serious gamers are content to let individual gamers make up their own minds. They acknowledge that a few isolated incidents exist where gamers appear to have been encouraged in taking violent actions based upon a specific game, but point out it was likely the individual would have found some other example to model, such as a movie, television show, or book.
Ministers and educators:- Many influential persons such as ministers and educators feel that the presence of violent video games is bad for society. Their existence provides a degree of legitimacy for the use of violence. Young people may get the idea that it perfectly acceptable to use violence to resolve personal conflicts rather than seek alternative methods.
Legislators:- Our law makers have also become involved in the controversy. Many Congressional hearings have been held to debate this issue. Laws have been passed both at the national and local level, with many cities passing laws banning specific games. These cities' laws are often later overturned.
Gaming industry:- In response to initial legislation during the 1990s, the video gaming industry created the Entertainment Software Rating Board which rates video games (similar to ratings for films). This was essentially a self-policing action designed to prevent further intrusion by various levels of government.
Ratings include: EC (Early Childhood), E (Everyone), Everyone 10+, Teen, Mature, Adults Only, and Rating Pending.
The ratings serve to guide parents and their children about the appropriateness of specific games to the child's age and maturity level.
In addition, video games contain "content descriptors" on the back of the game to further describe the game's content.
Conclusion:- The controversy over video game violence will certainly not be resolved anytime soon. In fact, it will probably escalate along with the advances in graphics and gameplay with the major gaming consoles. The best approach is to stay informed and to make decisions based upon what is right for you and your family.
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