While inconsistencies remain in the research on kids and video games, some new studies help us to improve some focus on what we understand. Not only are kids who play violent video games more prone to aggression, but new data shows they are also more prone to impulsivity. This may include reckless driving, smoking, binge drinking and unprotected sex.
An interesting new twist is that the type of aggression in video games can influence this. For example, video games that are aggressive but who have the player in the role of a "noble protagonist" are less likely to produce these same behaviors. The example given here is the game "Spiderman II" in which the motives of the character are seen as good (i.e. fighting crime). Other types of aggression (i.e. criminal intent), as in "Manhunt" or "Grand Theft Auto", are more likely to influence negative behavior.
New studies also reveal that, not only the type of video game, but the amount of time played is correlated with effects on behavior. The "magic number" is seen at one hour/day. Children and teenagers ages 10-15 who play one hour or less a day report being happier and more satisfied in life. The same study found that kids of the same age range who played video games 3 or more hours/day were less satisfied with their lives and had more personal and social difficulties.
Perhaps most interesting, kids who do not play video games at all may develop problems with socialization and adaptation in the digital world. So...too much, too little, the right type and the wrong type; it is complicated. The most important aspect in all of this is the quality of the child's relationship at home with the caregivers.
- www.npr.org -
New studies also reveal that, not only the type of video game, but the amount of time played is correlated with effects on behavior. The "magic number" is seen at one hour/day. Children and teenagers ages 10-15 who play one hour or less a day report being happier and more satisfied in life. The same study found that kids of the same age range who played video games 3 or more hours/day were less satisfied with their lives and had more personal and social difficulties.
Perhaps most interesting, kids who do not play video games at all may develop problems with socialization and adaptation in the digital world. So...too much, too little, the right type and the wrong type; it is complicated. The most important aspect in all of this is the quality of the child's relationship at home with the caregivers.
- www.npr.org -
