Violent Video Games – The Pro’s & Con’s

We’ve all heard that there may be a link between a child’s exposure to violence and their future use of violence as an acceptable conflict-resolution strategy. This may mean that the more a child is exposed to violence at an early age, the more the child may think that violence is not only okay, but also helpful in some scenarios. This issue is the reason why violent video games are so controversial, especially to young children and/or preadolescents who are likely to be most exposed.

At Firestone Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, it’s not just your child’s teeth we care about. We want to make sure all of our young patients are safe and healthy in all aspects of their lives! Below, we’ve put together a list of the pros (yes, there actually are some!) as well as the cons of violent video games:

Pros of Violent Video Games

• No Direct Relation – Even as violent video games increase in popularity, youth violence has been at its lowest levels in almost 32 years. According to federal crime stats, between 1995-2008, game sales quadrupled, but youth violence decreased more than 49%.
• Action-Consequence – These games teach the young players about following rules and will also help them learn consequences of each action. An important lesson of this includes “violence begets violence.”
• Skill Development – Video games, even violent ones, have been shown to improve right brain activity by helping the player solve problems, and enhance strategic thinking.

Cons of Violent Video Games

• Violence As Fun – After playing a violent video game, a child may see violence as fun and entertaining.
• Desensitization – Violent games may have a desensitizing effect on young players, making it more difficult to tell the difference between fantasy and reality.
• Makes Violence Acceptable – These games may teach young people that violence is an acceptable way to solve conflict or get what they want.

Clearly, it’s up to parents to decide what’s best for their children. We just want the parents of our patients to be well informed on all issues that could affect the health and well being of their children. For your child’s oral health needs, please contact Firestone Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, located in Firestone, CO!