Media Influences on Aggression: Violent computer games: A01

Question 1

What experimental studies holistically found when looking into the effects of violent computer games on aggression …

Answer 1

They have found short-term increases in levels of physiological arousal, hostile feelings and aggressive behaviour.

Question 2

Experimental studies: Anderson and Dill (2000).

Answer 2

Aims:
-Investigated the differences in levels of aggression between a group playing a violent video game compared to a group which was not.

Procedures:
- One group played Wolfestein 3D (shooting game), whilst the other group played Myth (a puzzle game).

Findings:
- The longer participants blasted there opponents with white noise (random, multi-frequency sound), the higher they rated themselves on the State of Hostility Scale.

Conclusions:
- Violent computer games does increase aggressive behaviour

Question 3

Longitudinal studies: Anderson et al (2007).

Answer 3

Aims: Test the long term effects of violent computer games on aggressive behaviour.

Procedures:
- Surveyed 430 children, aged between 7 - 9 at 2 points during school year.

Findings:
- Children with high exposure to violent video games became more verbally and physically aggressive.
- Also, became less prosocial ( rated by peers, teachers and themselves).