Do Violent Video Games Influence Violent Behavior?

by John Nowacky
in News, Release
on 26 May 2024

Studies have long debated the impact of violent video games on individuals, particularly in relation to school shootings. While I’m not an expert, it is reasonable to question whether these games glorify violence. However, a recent lawsuit involving the parents and families of Uvalde school shooting victims raises a different concern – the role of video game and gun companies in advertising and promoting combat-related images and products through social media.

In the past, lawsuits that blamed video game companies for school shootings have generally failed to hold up in court. Conversely, lawsuits against gun manufacturers like Remington have resulted in significant compensation. This particular case, though, highlights the complexities of targeted advertising and the influence of social media influencers in promoting firearm purchases.

Section 230, a legal provision in the United States, protects platforms from civil liability arising from user-generated content. However, things become more complicated when the primary issue is a platform’s targeted advertising. Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has stated in its advertising standards that ads must not promote the sale or use of weapons or ammunition. Nevertheless, there are ways to circumvent these rules.

One such method is through influencers – popular Instagram users who are enlisted by companies to promote products to their extensive audiences. While Instagram prohibits direct advertising of firearms and ammunition, influencers can pay to promote content that reviews firearms without linking directly to websites selling guns and ammunition.

According to an interview with an employee from a gun range, influencers often prove more effective in promoting their products than the companies themselves. This raises questions about the extent of influence social media has in shaping consumer behaviors, including firearm purchases.

While the impact of violent video games on violent behavior remains a contentious subject, this lawsuit highlights the potential effects of targeted advertising by video game and gun companies. As society continues to grapple with issues surrounding mass shootings and the role of media, it is crucial to explore the various factors that contribute to these tragic events.

Additional Facts:
1. Research studies have shown mixed results when it comes to the relationship between violent video games and violent behavior. Some studies suggest a link, while others find no significant correlation.
2. The American Psychological Association (APA) released a statement acknowledging the potential influence of violent video games on aggression, but also stated that it is just one risk factor among many.
3. The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rates video games based on content, including violence, making it easier for parents and consumers to make informed decisions about the games they purchase.
4. Many countries, including Australia, Germany, and Japan, have stricter regulations when it comes to the sale and access of violent video games, reflecting the ongoing debate about their impact.
5. The Supreme Court of the United States has ruled that video games receive the same level of First Amendment protection as other forms of media, such as books and movies.

Important Questions:
1. Do violent video games have a desensitizing effect on individuals, making them less sensitive to real-life violence?
2. Are there certain populations, such as individuals with preexisting aggressive tendencies or mental health conditions, who may be more susceptible to the influence of violent video games?
3. How do other factors, such as family environment, peer influence, and socio-economic status, interact with the impact of violent video games on behavior?
4. What role does parental guidance and media literacy play in mitigating any potential negative effects of violent video games?

Key Challenges/Controversies:
1. The challenge of conducting ethical and practical experiments to directly study the effects of violent video games on real-world aggression.
2. Debates regarding the consistency and validity of research findings in this area.
3. Balancing freedom of expression and the need to protect individuals from potential harmful effects.
4. The difficulty of separating the influence of violent video games from other contributing factors, such as exposure to real-life violence or access to firearms.

Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages:
1. Video games can provide opportunities for problem-solving, strategic thinking, and skill development.
2. They can serve as a form of entertainment and stress relief.
3. Many video games now incorporate positive and educational content.

Disadvantages:
1. Excessive and unmonitored gaming can lead to sedentary lifestyles and potential health issues.
2. Some individuals may become desensitized to violence or develop aggressive thoughts and behaviors.
3. The portrayal of certain groups and stereotypes in video games can perpetuate harmful biases and prejudices.