Do computer games make people aggressive? Narrative review on the associations between violent computer games and aggressiveness

BackgroundComputer games are becoming increasingly more common as a form of leisure activity. While these games can be captivating, there are concerns about the potential risks associated with excessive use.ObjectiveA controversially discussed question is whether violent computer games directly contribute to increased aggression in individuals, thus posing a risk to society.MethodIn this narrative review the results of different research approaches are discussed.ResultsCorrelational field studies have reported a positive association between aggressive personality traits and the frequent use of violent computer games. Experimental laboratory studies have often found a positive correlation between the extent of violent game use and aggressive thoughts, but weaker effects on aggressive behavior. In contrast, there is discussion about the potential for computer games to regulate aggression in the sense of managing moods; however, longitudinal studies have yielded contradictory findings. The results of systematic reviews were also similar, which have shown weak correlations at best between violent computer games and in particular aggressive thoughts, whereby the quality of the individual studies was often criticized.DiscussionIn summary, the existing body of research presents an inconsistent picture, characterized by partially contradictory results. While some studies have found significant correlations between aggressiveness and exposure to violent video games, the question of causality has not yet been answered with certainty. The assumption that violent computer games are directly responsible for violent behavior appears to lack sufficient empirical support at present.