Children and Video Games: The Cover Letter, Discussion (Research Paper Sample)

Student’s Name:
Instructor’s Name:
Course Code:
Date:
Children and Video Games
The Cover Letter
This essay talks about children and video games. As time progresses, it is becoming harder and harder to ignore the field of technological advancement because soon it will take over operating systems of all kinds hence the topic. Also the growth of technology goes hand in hand with its effects on the human race especially the young individuals. This essay explores the topic on video games, its invention and its ensuing viral nature among children. I want readers to be able to have a solution to video game shortcomings rather than taking sides. This research also will help readers to find a mutual base to agree upon.From this research, I have learnt that there are always two sides in every argument. Basically I saw video game as a waste of time. This research has enabled me to actually see the other end of video games. For instance I never knew that my IQ could be improved by a simple game in a box let alone in the comfort of my lounge!The conduction of this research was faced with some challenges. Firstly in administering interviews because most of respondents’ arguments were one sided. Secondly, this is a wide topic with extensive explanation for one to fully understand the standing point. With the limited amount of words that was given, it was hard to compress the outcome.The amazing part of this research is in its ability to expand my understanding of the topic. Also I learnt a lot of things that I did not know like getting to know the timeline of video game invention. Furthermore, it is very interesting how people like to talk about their games and habits on the same.I picked the topic because I saw that there was a lot of controversy about it besides beings intuitive. I also saw the need to find a common ground for the opposing views. In my experience, video game has always been a last resort to waste times i. I had no idea it could be so educative.Reading this essay with an open mind allows for a more unbiased thinking when internalizing the topic.
Introduction
Computers have to be the greatest invention of all time thanks to Charles Barbage who is known ‘the father of modern computer’ (Ifrah 36). With the tremendous growth of technology today it is only right to appreciate the cofounders of this field because they made it possible for the milestones we are at now. Video games get its roots from such kinds of historical discoveries since 1952 with the invention of the first video game ever, tennis for two by William Higinbotham. After that it has been a growing phenomenon for the industry and too for the criticism of the same as is the nature of human existence.
Discussion
Video games have been appreciated from the time of their creation until recently when it was believed that they are actually hazardous with increasing population especially parents aggravating about its negative influence in the lives of their children. From the statistics of Kaiser Family Study Reports,83% of U.S homes own gaming systems and more than 50% are children especially teenagers. According to these reports children now consume this kind of media innovations like no other with a record of over 8 hours daily.
Parents argue that video games are time wasters. This could be associated with the fact that playing most video games involvesbeing glued to one place basically doing the same thing over and over every single day. Other than that SarahEstlundin the articlethe psychological effects of video game playingsays that such kind of behaviour leads to addiction which result in health complications like obesity and subsequently psychological complications of antisocialism and decreased motivation.
From this research I have established that the main reason for resentment in video games today is in increased violence. Perhaps the biggest concern about video games in America today is in gun violence. According to media violence in teens is highly associated with the kinds of video games that they play. For instance, the Connecticut elementary school massacre (CNN) and in 1999 the columbine high school shooting in Colorado by two teenage boys was linked to aggressive video game indulgence. Although, it should be noted this was just one part factor of the whole ordeal. Gun violence among teenagers and youth is in the rise in the US and it is unfortunately related to playing violent games. In his book, Media violence and children: a complete guide for parents and professionals, Gentile states that violent video games increase aggression due to repeated violence acts in the game. This serves as learning spot that could make the gamer harbour destructive thoughts and in the end when they are being confronted they are likely to react aggressively (Bushman & Anderson 1680).
Truthfully, video games have their perils but these disadvantages shouldn’t be used to clog our eyes from the benefits that they offer.Despite their downside, video games offer learning opportunities that can be applied in the real world. For instance, many video games involve tackling of a situation in order to reach an intended goal. In the real world search goal oriented skills are fundamental in learning.
Besides entertainment, video games are stimulants for cognitive thinking. Some of these cognitive benefits have been illustrated in problem solving, dexterity and increased computer literacy. According to researchers, video games are known to aid in hand-eye coordination and accelerated inductive reasoning and strategy development. Children who engage in video games are most likely sharp and quick to deal with situations due to increased brain activity. This is very different for inactive children especially those who don’t engage in other simulating activities like sport. They tend to have docile minds as a result of inactivity in their brains. Aside from mental factors, video games can be used for social interactions where meaningful relationships can develop. Also this could be an easy way to keep children off bad habits of drug dealing and alcoholism.
Interestingly, the evidence there is about the implications of video games is still contradictory and confusing. Like in the case of academic performance where the video game is not the factor rather the amount of time spent playing. Research found that playing video games in moderation, violent as it may did not affect the behaviour of children as opposed to playing it every time. Therefore having established the pros and cons of video games it should be a matter of past that controversy arises about this topic in future. Instead of rebuking inventions with not so much luck, it is high time people stop bickering and act accordingly. Of course most of the blame is directed to inventors for their inconsideration of the younger generation; but actually they have done their part. I believe that the best way to deal with video game negative effects is first to accept its existence and growth of the industry. Then through extension and awareness learn the pros and cons before judging andafterwards every party to take responsibility for its effects....