How To Stop Kids From Playing Violent Video Games

Before I became the newest producer here at KFYO, I spent 4 years working retail at a video game store. And during those 4 years, I can't tell you how many times I heard this one: "Oh, those video games are so violent! I don't want my kids playing those violent games!"

OK...so if you parents feel that way, why do you keep buying those violent games for your kids?

Video games have been under a lot of fire (no pun intended) for a while now. People seem to think that, because these games are becoming more and more realistic, that these poor little kids might confuse the video game for reality and will not only become desensitized to real violence, but will also become more inclined to violent behavior themselves.

And yet, these are the same parents who go into the store, grab the game their kids are begging them for, and without even looking at the contents or the rating, buy those exact same games they are claiming are so horrible and violent.

Does anyone else see a problem with this?

First of all, if you can't tell the difference between a video game and real life, you probably shouldn't be playing video games in the first place.  I don't care how realistic the graphics are, there will always be a distinct difference between reality and virtual reality.

And secondly, parents, pay attention to what you're buying. All video games have a small box at the bottom that tells you what age group should be playing that game, and what the game has is it.  As a matter of fact, most retailers not will not allow you to purchase these violent games without a valid ID.

What it really comes down to is this: if you don't want your kids to play violent video games, then stop buying them for your kids.  I think that, as long as your kids are too young to play those games, you as a parent have to take at least some responsibility for what your kids are exposed to.

Anyway, it's just a thought.