Video Games and Teaching

Y= m x + b
Why do I know that math formula off of the top of my head? Repetition.

Repetition is one of the oldest and most thorough learning and memorization techniques in the world. Whether it is learning math equations, English, foreign languages, or instruments, none of these things could be taught without repetition. So why would violence be any different? "Gentile & Anderson (2003) state that playing video games may increase aggressive behavior because violent acts are continually repeated throughout the video game."- The impact of video games on children.  Not only are young children viewing violent acts (such as a violent movie) but they are deliberately committing them on their own will. This is what makes the repetition in video games frighteningly effective in teaching violence. 

A research study was done by the Congressional Public Health Summit on the Impact of Entertainment Violence on Children which concluded these main points:

• "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. 

• Viewing violence can lead to emotional desensitization towards violence in real life. It can decrease the likelihood that one will take action on behalf of a victim when violence occurs. 

• Entertainment violence feeds a perception that the world is a violent and mean place. Viewing violence increases fear of becoming a victim of violence, with a resultant increase in self-protective behaviors and a mistrust of others. 

• Viewing violence may lead to real life violence. Children exposed to violent programming at a young age have a higher tendency for violent and aggressive behavior later in life than children who are not so exposed."

This study focused on viewing violence. But I'm sure participating in violent computer-generated entertainment is not much healthier for a child.  Repetition of participation in violent acts is a danger to the fragile minds of America's youth.