Effects Of Video games

Question 1

Explanations of games and aggression

Answer 1

Bi-directional model
Desensitisation
Interactive media

Question 2

Bi-directional model

Answer 2

Gentile and Anderson propose that while video games may cause aggression, individuals who posses such personality traits will be more likely to select to play the games

Question 3

Desensitisation

Answer 3

Funk - people who play the games constantly become desensitised to them and are then less likely to be disgusted by real life aggression

Question 4

Interactive media

Answer 4

Porter and Starcevic argue that interactive violence is more likely to cause aggression and hostility because they convey messages that violence is an acceptable way to deal with irritants

Question 5

Positive effects

Answer 5

1. Calming effect - kestenbaum et al argue that playing computer games has a calming effect in that they can help manage conflict and can discharge aggression by allowing the open expression of competition
2. Intelligence - Van Schie found no relationship between the amount of time playing computer games and levels of aggressive behaviour. They also found that time spent gaming was positively correlated with intelligence

Question 6

Negative effects

Answer 6

1. Desensitisation - Carnagey et al found that those who had played a violent game immediately before watching the violent film had lower heart rates and galvanic skin response
2. Behavioural effects - Anderson et al found that short term exposure to video game violence was significantly associated with temporary increases in aggression in all of their participants