Do Video Games Have a Negative Impact on Kids?
The practice of playing violent video games is common among children and teens but may leave parents wondering whether or not this negatively impacts children later in life. Studies have shown mixed results, attributing both positive and negative effects to frequent video game playing.
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Effects
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A study conducted at Iowa State University demonstrates that violent video games lead to more aggressive behavior later on, regardless of age. Craig Anderson, one author of the study, writes, "These are not huge effects... But these effects are also not trivial in size. It is one risk factor for future aggression and other sorts of negative outcomes."
Benefits
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Other studies have indicated that video games can have a positive impact. A study appearing in the 1996 issue of "Perceptual and Motor Skills" found that video game usage resulted in faster reaction times, Other studies have attributed better hand-eye coordination and better spacial abilities to children who frequently play video games.
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Prevention/Solution
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Parents should check the ratings of video games to ensure that they are age appropriate before purchasing them for their children. Questionable content, such as violence or strong language, will be listed on the packaging of the game in addition to an age rating.
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References
- Photo Credit playing video games image by Lisa Turay from Fotolia.com
