Why You Should Consider Banning Video Games from Your Home

Video game manufacturers are quick to point out what they consider are a myriad of benefits to having children play video games.  Gaming enthusiasts note that their eye-hand coordination improved as a result of playing video games while other fans maintained that they developed skills in reading, math, and problem solving thanks to certain video games.

But what about the negative effects video games have on young children?  As a parent you should be actively managing how much time your child spends playing video games.  In addition, it’s a good idea help select games as well.
Unfortunately, some parents don’t realize that the entertainment industry targets children.  Recent studies prompted the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate how the media actively targets young children with violent entertainment meant for adults. The FTC’s report noted that during its investigation it found that almost every video game company it came in contact with regularly marketed violent games to children. 

As such experts suggest parents become aware of the growing concerns associated with video games and young children.  For example, parents should be aware that young children have difficulty distinguishing reality from fantasy, which makes them more vulnerable to the effects of media violence. Studies show that some children become more aggressive when exposed to high levels of violence in video games.

What’s more, the violence portrayed in video games usually has no consequences, so children are often left to classify what they see on the screen as funny or innocent.  In addition, studies show that children’s ideas of what it means to be male and female can be negatively influenced by video games.  Experts say most video games promote gender stereotypes found in the media (e.g. females are portrayed as victims, while males are the aggressors), which is absorbed by young children.

To avoid having your child fall into the video game trap experts say it is critical to not only monitor what he or she plays, but also set limits on the amount of time your son or daughter is allowed to play.  Otherwise, designate your home a video game-free zone. 

See Also:

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