Evidence Linking
Violent Video Games to Aggression Builds
The National Institute on Media and
the Family has been a leading voice linking video
game violence to real world aggression in youth.
The research evidence grew significantly stronger
this week with the release of a brain based study
showing that the brain activity caused by playing
violent video games is similar to the pattern typical
in real world aggression. The study was conducted
at several American and German universities. Rene
Weber of Michigan State University, a member of
the research team said, "Violent video games
frequently have been criticized for enhancing aggressive
reactions such as aggressive cognitions, aggressive
affects or aggressive behavior. On a neurobiological
level we have shown the link exists."
The National Institute on Media and the Family president
Dr. David Walsh commented, "This latest study
is a another strong link in the chain of evidence
supporting our work to alert parents, educators,
and other leaders about the dangers of children
and youth playing violent video games."
The 10th annual video game report card will be released
by the Institute next month. For more information
on video games and other media's effects on children
and youth go to www.mediafamily.org.
