Can violent video games encourage my child to be aggressive?

Although it can seem like common sense that violent video games drive real-world aggression, the facts of the matter tell a different story. This study not only provides robust evidence about the effects of violent video games on behaviour but in sidestepping moral panic, it clears space for us to better support parents and carers of children who love video games.

This is not to say that video games don’t affect young players. Rather, that we are still learning how this relatively new, and complex, pastime functions. The gaming worlds that I see children enjoy them clearly affect them, and trigger their imagination and creativity. For parents to encourage these positive benefits requires a first-hand understanding of games themselves, which comes from having excellent resources and advice on the topic.

The report is not only important in terms of results but also in setting excellent standards of rigor and transparency for further work.