Report

Violence is a serious problem in our society. Every year, thousands of people are killed or injured in violent acts. There are many factors that contribute to violence, including poverty, mental illness, and substance abuse. However, one factor that has been the subject of much debate is the role of video games.

Data shows that video games do not lead to violence, but can lead to aggressive thoughts. However, video games aren’t the main cause for violent behavior. A 2019 study by the American Psychological Association found that there is a small but significant link between violent video game use and aggressive behavior in children. Many people believe mass killers get violent behavior from video games. Studies have shown that mass shooters are often mentally ill, with conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and personality disorders. Games like call of duty, and mortal kombat have heavy gore and violence. But that’s why there are age restrictions. The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rates video games based on multiple factors, violent video games are typically rated M for Mature. 

Watching a violent movie is not nearly as bad as playing a violent video game. You have control over the video game, you can do what you want. Games like GTA let you go around and kill people whenever you feel like it, you can steal cars. Playing video games for an excessive amounts of time can result in poor emotional regulation. Playing violent video games also results in desensitization, something that would have been really violent to you a few years back, would be “normal” now. Video games also provide mental practice, e.g bowling in a game, even if you have never been to a real life bowling alley, you still know how to bowl decently well. This may seem good, but with violent video games it can be bad, people can take killing people from a game and take it into real life.

Creating video games that are entertaining without relying on violence as a core gameplay mechanic is an important goal in the gaming industry. By focusing on unique gameplay mechanics, interesting stories, and immersive worlds, developers can grab players attention. Including cooperative and competitive features, strategic decision making, and challenging tasks can keep the players playing. By incorporating diverse themes, well developed characters, and meaningful choices, game designers can offer thought provoking experiences. Finding the right balance between entertainment and responsible design allows developers to move away from excessive violence while still delivering an enjoyable game.

Various different approaches, including age ratings, and parental controls are in place to address the negative effects of violence in video games. Alternative game mechanics like cooperative gameplay and moral decision making have been a replacement for violence in many games including: It Takes Two, and Journey. Finding the right balance between the negative effects of violence in video games and creative freedom of game developers is a difficult task.

In conclusion, evidence points that violent video games aren’t the primary cause of mass shootings. Instead,evidence states that mental health problems are the main cause. More focus should be directed to prioritize mental health support and recognize its significance in preventing violent acts. Furthermore, age ratings are assigned to violent video games, they serve as safeguards, making sure young children are protected from these violent games. Game developers do have the option to use alternative strategies, such as going for more story driven games, rather than relying on violent features. In summary, by giving more recognition to mental health issues, enforcing age restrictions, and promoting alternative game designs. Video games can be just as fun, and be more inclusive to younger players.