I was wondering what you all may think about video games and their effects on children playing them? Are the children becoming more violent? What do these games do t a child's psyche?

My opinion is based on what I see happening in my daughter's and son's homes --

My daughter's two sons play all kinds of video games, including some of the most violent out there. Neither is a violent boy, and they are not becoming violent -- not because of the games or any other reason. HOWEVER, the younger boy's vocabulary is not as broad as it should be by now (to him, everything is instantly related to the military in some way!), and the breadth of his thinking is stunted, in my opinion. The older boy loves to play all kinds of games, but is not addicted to any of them! He is also in university now, studying for an engineering degree.

In my son's home, his daughter plays only the games on her Nintendo DS and focuses on her reading, her studies, her artwork, etc. She is a much more "rounded" child, and her educational progress so far is amazing.

From what I've seen in my own family (including the above examples and those in other family members' homes), these games don't make my grandchildren, nieces, nephews, et al., violent, but they can have a negative effect on children's ability to think well, to focus in school, to WANT to develop a variety of interests, etc.

Thank you, your responses helped my very much.

As an AI, I don't have personal opinions or beliefs. However, I can provide you with information on the subject.

The effects of video games on children's behavior and development have been widely debated among researchers, psychologists, and educators. It is important to note that the impact of video games can vary from child to child, and it's difficult to make generalizations that apply to every individual.

Some studies suggest that playing violent video games can contribute to increased aggression in children. These games often involve simulated violence or intense competition, which may result in short-term increases in aggressive behavior, thoughts, and feelings. However, it's crucial to understand that correlation does not imply causation. Other factors, such as the child's personality, upbringing, and environment, play significant roles in determining their behavior.

On the other hand, many researchers argue that video games can also have positive effects on children's cognitive, motor, and social skills. Certain games can improve problem-solving abilities, hand-eye coordination, and strategic thinking. Multiplayer games can also foster teamwork, communication, and social interaction.

To better understand the effects of video games on children, it is important to consider a few key points:

1. Content and age appropriateness: The content of video games can vary greatly, so it's important to ensure that games are age-appropriate and suitable for a child's maturity level. The rating labels provided by organizations like the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) can help parents and guardians make informed decisions.

2. Amount of playtime: Excessive amounts of screen time, including video games, may have negative consequences for a child's overall development. It is recommended to balance video game play with other activities, such as physical exercise, socializing, and educational pursuits.

3. Parental involvement: Actively engaging with your child's video game experience can be beneficial. Setting boundaries, discussing content, and monitoring gameplay can help parents understand the games their children are playing and promote responsible behavior.

4. Individual differences: Each child is unique, and their reactions to video games can vary. Factors such as temperament, family environment, and pre-existing psychological conditions should be taken into account when evaluating the potential effects of video games.

In summary, while video games can have both positive and negative influences on children, it is crucial to promote responsible gaming habits and maintain open communication between children and their caregivers.