| A topic that has recently become subject to | | | | years of age. This can present a problem for a |
| much debate is if video games contribute to | | | | parent, since they see that their children have |
| violent behavior in both children and adults. There | | | | been exposed to game content that is only |
| are many opposing viewpoints on this subject, | | | | intended for mature players. This is usually what |
| with each side presenting 'research' and special | | | | leads to parents complaining about the content of |
| studies to support their case. With all of this | | | | some games designed for mature audiences, such |
| conflicting information, it's difficult to actually form | | | | as the Grand Theft Auto series. |
| your own concise opinion as to if video games | | | | However, there has been no proven connection |
| could possibly contribute to violent behavior. | | | | that directly associates children displaying violent |
| However, with a quick look at some key facts, | | | | behavior solely because they are exposed to |
| it's clear that the association between playing | | | | violent video game content. This is a myth, and is |
| video games and acting out on violent tendencies | | | | not currently proven by any reputable study. |
| is not directly connected. | | | | Most children that exhibit violent behavior are also |
| Many parents discourage their children from | | | | exposed to many other environmental factors |
| playing violent video games. This is the main | | | | that can cause them to act inappropriately. |
| reason why most video games include a rating, | | | | Blaming video games for problems in children is |
| which has a general guideline for how old a child | | | | baseless, false and poorly informed. When in |
| has to be before they should be allowed to play | | | | doubt , it is best to pay attention to the ratings |
| this game. However, it may occur that a child | | | | on a game, using it as a guideline for what type |
| gains access to a game that is only designed to | | | | of games you should allow your children to play. |
| be played by individuals that are over eighteen | | | | |