It is truly a sad comment to our evolutionary process when media hype replaces factual data on important issues we face daily. Mass media influences parental decisions everyday. I am speaking of the perpetual myth that violent video games result in an increased number of violent crimes committed by the youth in our society. Research and statistics prove that video games are not the primary cause of violence. In fact, almost the opposite is true.
Grand Theft Auto was first released in early 1990 and is extremely violent. With data from the Bureau of Statistics, the release of Grand Theft Auto did not have any effect on America’s crime rate. For young adults, the crime rate actually dropped after the release of the video game. With people between ages 14-24, it is believed that they are more susceptible to violence if they see it through video games. The same holds true for the statistics on violent crimes not resulting in homicide.
Violent video games and crimes do not have any direct relationship to one another. Statistics by law enforcement agencies prove mass media to be false in their claims. Ironically, as new violent video games are released, the crime rate decreases or does not change. Media presents false information on popular items such as video games to produce more viewers.
Ratings are the main cause of false data being released. Competition for a large audience in mainstream media is important for network survival. Parent’s pay more attention to the news than anyone else. News channels know that the best way to get a parents attention is by insinuating that something can and will affect their children. Information is based on a general thought or opinion, not statistical data.
Also, many child psychologist give their personal opinions on video games and can influence a crowd of people. All in all, the statistics of the Department of Justice for the nation do not support the claim that the popularity of violent video games is creating an increase in violent crimes across the nation.
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