Do video games increase violence in children?
As a psychologist, one of the most common concerns that parents ask about is whether their child’s video game use will increase their likelihood of being violent. So, what does the research say about video games and violence?
First, it's important to note that violent video games do not directly cause children to become violent. While playing violent video games may increase aggression in some children, it is not a direct cause of violent behavior. It's important to remember that aggression and violence are complex issues that are influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, upbringing, and environment.
That being said, research has shown that children who play violent video games may be more likely to engage in aggressive behavior, both immediately after playing and over time. However, it's important to note that these effects are small and only apply to a small percentage of children.
On the other hand, I also see many benefits from children playing video games. I often meet children who don’t feel competent anywhere else in their lives, feeling good about themselves when they play video games. I see young people who are really isolated, starting to make connections through online gaming. This can include in-game typing and then move into voice chat. I see young people use video games as a regulation tool when the outside world feels too overwhelming. This is a solution they have found. Parents often worry that this is not healthy and start to impose bans but this often doesn’t help the situation as the problem is feeling overwhelmed in the world rather than the video games.
To remove video games completely is unrealistic and not helpful. So, what can parents do to ensure that their child is using video games in a safe and healthy way? Here are some tips:
Set limits: Establish rules around how much time your child can spend playing video games. Encourage them to take breaks and engage in other activities.
Monitor content: Be aware of the content of the video games your child is playing. Look for age-appropriate games and avoid those that are excessively violent.
Encourage social interaction: Encourage your child to play video games with friends or family members. This can help promote social interaction and reduce isolation. It can also be a wonderful bonding opportunity to strengthen your relationship with your child.
Talk to your child: Have open and honest conversations with your child about the impact of video games on their behavior. Encourage them to express their feelings and opinions.
Educate: Teach your child how to use video games safely and navigate the online world, including not talking to anyone they don’t know in real life or releasing personal information.
Remember, video games can be a fun and engaging activity for children when used in moderation and in a healthy way. By setting limits, monitoring content, encouraging social interaction, and having open conversations, parents can help ensure that their children are using video games in a safe and responsible way.