Violence and Young People

It has come to my attention, and many others, that violent games have influenced young kids to become more violent. This controversy has been for a period of time, and people have grown very strong opinions on the topic. Violent games actually influence young people today to become more violent and encourages them to do so.

    First, lets look at some arguments that support my opinion. Research has shown that, “Children who see a lot of violence are more likely to view violence as an effective way of settling conflicts. Children exposed to violence are more likely to assume that acts of violence are acceptable behavior” (The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, American Psychological Association, American Medical Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American Psychiatric Association, 2000). This means that violent games will in fact give young people a violence craving side.

    While many claim that violent games do not contribute to youth violence, I find that these games set a part of their conscience to think it’s ok to be violent. The Columbine shooting and movie theater shooting in Aurora, Colorado both shooters had something in common. They both were serious gamers who were acting out a dark fantasy as if in a game. How could this not connect to violent video games? We need to stop hiding in delusional mind sets and start keeping our young generation away from these life distracting games!

On the other hand people might say that video games will  help stop violence. The claim is that these games will keep criminals off the streets and in their houses. Isn’t this a good thing for our society? The games will allow criminals to act out their violence on the game not in life. Yes, this will satisfy them with enough violence. Video games or any violent games in general will help our young people not hurt them.

To conclude, violent games can hurt our society. Even with some reasons that it can't, the evidence saying it can overrules it. I now ask you fellow classmates and teachers, can you help the young people succeed in life?

Authors Note   

Mohammad Wdaa is a 14 year old 8th grader who loves basketball and football. He says don't read if you're going to hate! Peace out girl scout.