Why I Don't Believe In-Game Violence Affects My Daughter's Behavior

As a mother of a 13-year-old who is passionate about gaming, I often face questions about the impact of in-game violence on my child's behavior. My unequivocal response remains unchanged – I firmly believe that in-game violence has no bearing on my daughter's conduct. Let me take you through our journey and why I stand by this conviction.

It's the Intensity, Not the Violence

Perhaps the most common misconception about video games is the direct correlation between violence in games and aggressive behavior in children. However, my experience with my daughter has proven otherwise. Video games, such as Overwatch, offer high-intensity experiences that captivate players, especially teens, in the heat of the moment. It's not the violence that fuels emotions; rather, it's the pressure and competition inherent in gaming.

Analogous to the emotional responses witnessed in children after a tough loss in sports, frustration in gaming is more about the intensity of the challenge rather than the violent content. It manifests emotionally or verbally, not physically, further supporting the notion that game violence is not synonymous with real-world behavior.

Violence Doesn’t Equal Behavior

Movies with fight scenes, similar to games with combat elements, do not spur violent tendencies in individuals. My daughter's enjoyment of games like Overwatch stems from the strategic mindset required to win rather than any inclination towards real-life aggression. The focus in games like Overwatch lies not in promoting violence but in nurturing skills like teamwork and critical thinking.

Contrary to popular belief that exposure to violent video games cultivates aggressive traits, my daughter's gaming experience has emphasized camaraderie and skill development rather than violence-driven behavior.

Setting Boundaries

By fostering a balance that encourages teamwork, strategy, and healthy competition, I aim to cultivate a gaming environment that enriches my daughter's skills without promoting negative influences.

In conclusion, my stance on in-game violence remains unwavering. Through our journey with video games, particularly Overwatch, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of gaming on my daughter's development, highlighting the nuanced relationship between video games and real-world behavior.