Study downplays link of video games to violence
From The Observer:
Playing computer games may actually be good for children, according to a government study that found no proof that even violent games triggered aggressive behaviour.The games can improve children’s decision-making and instil ‘positive learning traits’, some research suggests. At least one study argues that make-believe violence helps children ‘conquer fears and develop a sense of identity’, as gruesome fairytales once did.
The review was ordered by ministers over concerns about possible links between bloodthirsty games and real-life violence. The fatal stabbing of 14-year-old Stefan Pakeerah, whose attacker was said to have been obsessed with a game called Manhunt, prompted a campaign by his mother to have violent titles banned.
The review concluded fears about violent games reflected deeper social concerns about ‘the changing nature of childhood in a modern world’. Most research suggesting a link came from America and did not take into account the context in which children played.
Ministers have discussed age-labelling of games and are understood to be planning talks with the industry about helping parents choose titles.
Tags: game-ratings, harmful-games, kids, parental-consent, Parenting, research, rockstar
What study was this?
October 23rd, 2009 at 1:50 pmHi Matt– the link at http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2006/may/21/news.games refers to a gov’t study but does not link to it. I would give this more credence if it linked to the actual study– I don’t know why they don’t do that– but as it’s a fairly well-established source I decided to publish it anyway. Let me know if you find link to the study or its refutation!
October 23rd, 2009 at 2:20 pm