video violence

The profound issue of Video Violence is sparking many questions over the effects it may be having on the children in our society today. Video Violence is becoming a greater concern as technology develops, with graphics looking more authentic and real. The debate has struck controversy through the media and scientific researchers, on whether or not this is really an environment we want the children of today to grow up in and become a part of. The reality of all this is the violence itself and what its teaching society.

Since the invention of video’s and video games in the early eighty’s, technology has grown at an alarming speed and its society that’s had to catch up. Generally there was an acceptance of violent movies and video games as it all happened so quickly, but now we’re asking is this really acceptable? And can technology really make our children violent?

Scientists believe from studies undertaken, that violent videos may effect a child’s performance at school, cause them to argue and can cause them to become violent themselves, resulting to violence with other peer members. Researchers have also discovered that increased exposure to violent games may cause lower levels of empathy and a stronger pro violence attitude. From further research and more findings, great public debates have sparked controversy over this issue.

The graphic images can give a vibrant portrayal of an aggressive incident and may have a long-term effect on a child. Some images can also have a sense of falsity portraying reality. Take for example a video game that requires you to kill; even after violently bashing your opponent (who has fallen to the ground and has blood pouring out of them), they un-reluctantly jump straight back up. This is teaching children that violence has no real affects. Also take in to consideration a game that requires a child (who is playing the bad guy) to shoot his opponents, the police. Each shot that gets the policeman is rewarded in bonus points and victorious music being played flashing the words ‘congratulations’ or ‘good shot’, encouraging the child to keep going. This is a portrayal of reality giving a child a false pretence.

Last year there was a case where two Tennessee teenagers were charged for a murder that was imitated from a popular playstation game, Grand Theft Auto (a game which in involves murder and prostitution). The two brothers told investigators that they took the gun, which was locked up in their home and shot at a passing vehicle, mimicking the game. This is just one recent report of a serious incident that has been a result of violent video games. Should they really be allowed?

There is also another way a child can be affected from violent games and films, that has little attention payed towards it. Take into account a child who may become intimidated and terrified by what they’ve seen, this doesn’t necessarily have to be the child that’s playing the game, it may be a brother, sister or friend that’s near by. The child can become the victim of nightmares or just be scared of going to sleep.

On the other hand Australia has laws that prohibit a film from being sold without a rating from the government or Film and Literature Classification (OFLC). There are also laws that stops any video game thats been rated ‘X’ or ‘R18+’ from being sold. Australia's Censorship System has been put in place to warn parents of what exactly their child is watching or playing, allowing the parent to make decision on whether or not the child should be allowed to become involved with the game or film.

This issue is challenging to come to a conclusion that is entirely right, because it depends on the individuals opinion. From the information I have gathered I believe that video games will continue to entertain children in the future, and that violent video games will continue to be apart of many childrens lives. Although I believe that violent films and video games aren’t really appropriate for young children, I also believe that the final decision is up to the parent/s. There are always going to be cases where children can’t be supervised by their own parents and be stopped from watching or playing with violence. But this is the case in all situations, its not just voilent films and video games that parents can’t always supervise. As a society I think we have to accept the fact that some children are going to be allowed to become apart of this voilent world and there is nothing, you, I or anyone can do to stop it. The ratings and warnings are emphasised now it’s up to the parents and the individuals!