Video Game Violence - On the flip side...
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On the contrary, the International Game Developers Association and the Free Expression Policy Project have argued that there is no consistent evidence of an effect of violence in entertainment on violence in children. They’ve shown that negative results linking the two are far more common than positive results, showing the positive results as merely coincidence.
Yee’s bill approaches the situation in an illogical manner. Banning videogames and putting it on a shelf beside Playboy will only ensure that every teenager will want it. The theory behind games causing violence and obesity is damaging. More than just teen behavior is at stake here; grown-up gamers are clearly being stigmatized by the stereotypes implicit in these theories and legislation.
If researchers witnessed Counter-Strike tournaments, (Counter-Strike is a very popular and realistic violent first person shooter/simulation game), they would see many minors playing a mature-rated game, but focusing on teamwork and communication to win. Even though winning consists of shooting the other team; players clearly can tell the difference between the game and reality.
Conclusion
Gaming is not a form of mainstream entertainment in the United States and most adults over the age of 35 don't entirely understand it. They can, however, perceive the violence inherent in most of today's games--making games the inevitable scapegoat of social crisis.
Virtual world experiences are complex. How can we expect legislation to respect the subtleties? Is there even enough realistic expertise out there to come to any sensible judgment? Looking at the efforts of state assembly member Leland Yee, who holds a PhD in child psychology, there is much reason to be concerned.
Video games will continue on being a growing part of children’s media diets. With so many fun and rewarding games available, it is unfortunate that so much attention and criticism has been given to games which adults have felt are “inappropriate for all youth.” Perhaps as future generations displace today’s, acceptance of video game violence will become easier, like television or movie violence.
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