United States Senator Jay Rockefeller has brought a new bill before Congress that requests that research be done in exploring the impact that violent video games have on kids. If the bill is passed, the study will be conducted by the National Academy of Sciences.
Rockefeller details the bill on his website, saying:
Major corporations, including the video game industry, make billions on marketing and selling violent content to children. They have a responsibility to protect our children. If they do not, you can count on the Congress to take a more aggressive role.
The recent tragedy that struck an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut undoubtedly sparked the idea to propose this bill. The senator went on to elaborate how the research would be conducted, adding:
With respect to violent video games, NAS must look at whether current or emerging aspects of games, like their interactive nature and the personal and vivid way violence is portrayed, have a unique impact on kids.
Changes in technology now allow kids to access violent content online with less parental involvement. It is time for these two agencies to take a fresh look at these issues.
While there’s no denying that there are loads of video games that are extremely violent and unhealthy for young minds, it’s important to remember that these games are rated by the ESRB to prevent underage children from purchasing such experiences. The problem lies with the parents who buy these extremely violent games for their kids anyway.
[Via]
