Violent Video Games and Films - Dissertation Example

However, an analysis of previous research and available statistical data reveals contradictory results. Therefore, the causal link between violence in media and video games and violence in youth has not yet been established. The limitations of the present study and recommendations for future research have also been discussed. Future studies that investigate whether aggression induced by violent media leads to real-life violence are warranted. Furthermore, long-term longitudinal studies are required for more conclusive results. Statistical data on gang culture and youth violence, and the actual exposure to media violence need to be compiled for a better investigative approach.

Ever since their inception, mass media and video games have successfully kept the masses entertained and fixated with scintillating and exciting content. The craving for adventure, thrill, suspensive, and out-of-the-world experiences has kept the entertainment industry up and running, with thrilling and often violent content. Airing violent programs on TV and using brutal and aggressive storylines in video games seemed entirely harmless until research reports linking them with aggression and youth violence surfaced. Every time there are episodes of violence in educational institutions, widespread riots on the streets, etc., fingers are pointed at the aggression displayed in media and games, which are then blamed for being the root cause of psychological abnormalities, behavioral problems, aggression, delinquency and violence in the youth. A recent case in point is the London riots that surfaced in August 2011. Shortly after the riots, a police constable reportedly blamed games such a Grand Theft Auto for the lawlessness and aggression of the youth witnessed during the riots. The London Evening Standard quoted the police constable as saying—

Go home, get a takeaway and watch anything that happens on TV. These are bad people who did this. Kids out of control. When I was young it was all Pacman and board games. Now they're playing Grand Theft Auto and want to live it for themselves (Poole 2011).