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Playing violent video games and desensitization to violence
1Emeritus, Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, MS 948, 2800 West Bancroft, Toledo, OH 43606-3390, USA.
Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|December 3, 2014
Summary
Exposure to violent video games may desensitize individuals to violence. This review synthesizes research on violent video game exposure and its link to desensitization, exploring real-world consequences.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Media Studies
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding the impact of violent media, specifically video games, on psychological processes.
- Desensitization to violence is a potential outcome of repeated exposure to aggressive content.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize current research on the relationship between violent video game exposure and desensitization to violence.
- To evaluate violent video game exposure as a potential risk factor for developing desensitization.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing studies.
- Inclusion of data from questionnaire-based, behavioral, and psychophysiological research.
- Analysis of research methodologies and findings.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a correlation between violent video game exposure and reduced emotional and physiological responses to violence.
- Multiple research methods indicate that prolonged engagement with violent games may contribute to desensitization.
- Individual differences and game characteristics may moderate this effect.
Conclusions:
- Violent video game exposure is a potential contributing factor to desensitization to violence.
- Understanding this link is crucial for addressing the real-world implications of reduced sensitivity to aggression.
- Further research is needed to clarify causal mechanisms and long-term effects.