Video Game Violence And Public Policy By David Walsh

Violent Video Games Seventy-nine percent of American children now play video games on a regular basis. Whether the children are playing videogames out of boredom, for entertainment, or for a social activity, they may have a negative impact. Increased physiological reactions, aggressive emotions and behavior, and addiction are all caused by violent videogames. According to the paper “Video Game Violence and Public Policy” by David Walsh, physical reactions are increased while playing violent video games. The paper states “exposure to violent video games increases physiological arousal…heart rate…and…blood pressure all increase when playing violent games…These are the same types of physiological reactions bodies have when engaged in a fight.” Having these reactions for long periods of time can cause a hostile mentality. In fact, students who play video games frequently have been found to be in foul mood before, during, and after playing a violent game, while those who do not play games frequently did not have the same reaction. Though these reactions don’t appear to have a significant effect on children, the can progress to other, more violent, behaviors.

Because the physiological reactions are increased, which makes children more likely to have a hostile point-of-view, aggressive behaviors and emotions form. Walsh’s research states that “In a study of 8th and 9th graders, students who played more violent video games were also more likely to see the world as a hostile place, to get into frequent arguments with teachers, and to be involved in physical fights.” Violent video games not only cause people to have the desire to fight, they also make children more likely to act upon the