How the violence in video games affects your child

Video games and computer games are one of the most common ways children and adults pass the time today. Many kids spend a good portion of their time playing video games, and not nearly enough participating in physical activity. They play against others via the Internet and they are not getting the face-to-face contact needed to foster good social skills. There are a wide variety of games available, most of which contain violence. This has become so common in fact, that many kids view it as a normal occurrence in the realm of gaming, but can it present danger in real life?

The depiction of negative themes

Many experts have discussed the presence of violence in video games and what it is teaching kids. Children often talk about it like it isn’t a big deal, leaving parents to wonder just how their children are viewing real violence that goes on in the world around them. Even if a particular game isn’t particularly violent, chances are it emphasises a negative narrative. Other games promote the killing of people or animals, the use of drugs and alcohol, disrespect for authority and the law, which leads to criminal behaviour, sexual exploitation, violence toward women, stereotypes of a gender, racial, or sexual nature, and the use of foul language and obscenity.

So how can you limit the negative effects of video games on your child?

Monitor the games your kids play 

If you don’t want your children engaging in negative content, don’t allow them to play games containing it. Studies have shown that kids who frequently play these types of video games often adopt the negative attitudes the games imply. Monitor what they are playing very carefully. This will ensure they don’t play games with a negative or destructive theme and also help them maintain a positive attitude toward other people and life in general. Buy them educational games instead or games that are family-friendly and you can enjoy them together.

Bring back the board games and incorporate them into family night 

Encourage your children to go back to basics and play board games. This way, the entire family must participate and play games that don’t involve a screen and the use of some sort of controller.

Make sure your kids get plenty of exercise 

Kids who don’t get enough exercise are usually those who are playing video games too often. Encourage your children to play soccer or go for a walk around the neighbourhood