Violence and Gaming

ESRB "Mature 17+" rating symbol, displayed on the packaging of computer and video games appropriate for audiences over the age of 17. Part of the ESRB Video Game Rating System. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The bashing of violent video games, by the media, isn't new. Since the release of Mortal Kombat (more than likely even before it), society labeled gaming and other entertainment(movies,tv,music) as the main culprit.

Is it fair?

I don't think it's fair to blame these forms of entertainment and feel like this 'blame game' is a way for society to ignore the bigger issue.
A lack of values and respect

Most parents/guardians are content with the television or gaming system being the babysitter and letting their children play and watch any game or show no matter the content, to keep them placated, or out of their hair.

English: This is the warning message that the ESRB uses for some RP titles. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I've played violent games and have watched many violent films during my childhood(and I still do) yet I'm not out stealing or killing.
Why haven't I declined into a state of debauchery like most studies claim happen to children who surround themselves with violent media?

It's simple. My parents raised me well and taught me the difference between right,wrong,real, and fantasy; along with how to treat others and to always respect your elders.

It's up to the parents to take the time with their children and decide if they can handle the violent media and know that its fake.

Sub-Zero's Spine Rip Fatality in Mortal Kombat has led to censorship due to its violent content (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I'm not advocating that toddlers be subjected to the violent media; not at all but when they reach a proper age(decided by parents not the government); they should be able to watch or play violent media(again the parents have to play a role in this decision).

Violent media doesn't need to banned and become the only the escape route when things go bad. The ESRB(rating system) works fine along with stores adhering to a strict 'no selling violent media to minors' policy. Parents need to step up and take control.

If you decide to keep your kids away from violent media then that's great but don't complain when he/she plays or watches violent media at a friend's house or etc.

Manhunt 2 (Photo credit: Bobbie)

If his/her friend can interact with violent media then as a parent you need to keep him away from the friend's house and not blame the game or movie company.

Related articles

• Joe Biden shouldn't blame video games for gun violence (o.canada.com)
• 77% of Parents Blame Video Games For Exposing Kids to Violence (mashable.com)
• How to talk to your children about their gaming habits (polygon.com)
• Connecticut school giving out money to parents who destroy violent video games, clearly has no idea that the ESRB exists (gimmegimmegames.com)
• Violent video games put parental judgment to test (boston.com)
• Today, The NRA Held A Press Conference Blaming Violent Media For The Newtown Massacre (bloody-disgusting.com)