Violent Games 'Almost' As Dangerous as Smoking

Via Voodoo Extreme, a Reuters report on some very 'interesting' research into violent games. A study out of the University of Michigan has apparently found that 'exposure to violent electronic media' is almost as dangerous to our society as smoking. "'The research clearly shows that exposure to virtual violence increases the risk that both children and adults will behave aggressively,' said Huesmann, adding it could have a particularly detrimental effect on the well-being of youngsters. Although not every child exposed to violence in the media will become aggressive, he said it does not diminish the need for greater control on the part of parents and society of what children are exposed to in films, video games and television programs."

Comments

Re:Get thee away from me

[ehrichweiss]

"So let us imagine what the difference between the UK and the US could be. Oh yes the fact that you let every loony and criminal arm themselves to the teeth with cheap firearms."

Why is it that we always see someone from the UK(and maybe elsewhere) saying exactly this type of statement: "What could be the difference between the UK and the US? Oh I know. Guns!!".


Seriously, it's overplayed. One only need to look inside of a prison where there are no guns whatsoever, except in the gun tower, to see that violence doesn't need bullets to be effective and that it's the culture, not the gun.

This isn't a debate on gun control so why is it that it's the biggest harping point of people that live in your Nanny State when there is a discussion on violence in general? I only half-heartedly jest when I say that it's probably simple envy. Regardless, if I had to choose my method of death, I'd rather be shot than have someone spend 10 minutes bludgeoning me with a baseball bat or whatever other violent methods someone in your country might have to resort to.

Re:A Few Statistics From A Slightly Better Article

[Auraiken]

I AM a pillow, you insensitive clod!

OMFG Idiocracy...

[EddyPearson]

That has to be the stupidest thing I have EVER heard. Ever.