Before 'Skyfall': 46 years of violence in James Bond movies
Researchers found that rates of violence increased significantly in James Bond films over a 46-year period, with severe violence increasing by nearly three times.
Media Violence
Articles tagged with Media Violence
Violent video games: More playing time equals more aggression
A new study found that playing violent video games for three consecutive days led to increases in aggressive behavior and hostile expectations. In contrast, players of nonviolent games showed no significant changes. The study suggests a cumulative effect of repeated exposure to violent games on aggression.
The most popular TV series among youngsters in Spain recreates violence
A Spanish study found that Telecinco's Sin tetas no hay paraíso is the most violent of five studied TV series, with a significant impact on aggressive behavior in youngsters. The show's portrayal of violence and aggression contributes to its detrimental effects, including learning and imitating negative behaviors.
How does Pakistani media consumption affect opinions on violence?
A $276,000 grant will fund a national survey of 6,000 Pakistanis exploring the relationship between media consumption and beliefs on Islamist violence. The study aims to identify critical thinking skills among Pakistani communities.
Violent video games not so bad when players cooperate
Researchers found that college students who played violent video games cooperatively showed more cooperative behavior and less signs of aggression than those who played competitively. The studies suggest that the social aspect of modern video games can change how people react to violence.
Strong female portrayals eliminate negative effects of violent media
A recent study found that positive depictions of strong female characters can mitigate the negative impacts of violent media on viewers' attitudes towards women. The research, conducted by Christopher Ferguson, surveyed 150 university students and showed that men and women exhibited less anxiety when viewing shows with positive female ...
Special international commission on media violence confirms aggression link
A research-based report by an international Media Violence Commission confirms that media violence exposure increases the relative risk of aggression. The commission recommends that parents know what media their children and adolescents are using and set limits on screen time to promote critical thinking and healthy consumption.
New study on media violence and kids could have applications on school bullying
A new study by Iowa State University researchers suggests a link between media violence exposure and increased aggression in children, which could help identify students at higher risk of bullying behavior. The study found that media violence exposure was one of six risk factors for predicting later aggression in 430 children.
Video games depict religion as violent, problematized, MU study shows
A recent MU study found that many newer-generation video games equate religion with violence in game narratives. The study analyzed five recent games, including Mass Effect 2 and Assassin's Creed, which closely tie religion to violent plotlines.
Violent video games alter brain function in young men
A study by Indiana University researchers found that playing violent video games for a week can lead to changes in the brain's frontal regions associated with emotion and aggressive behavior. The study, which followed 28 healthy adult males, showed reduced activation in these areas after one week of gameplay.
Violent video games alter brain function in young men
A study found that playing violent video games for one week reduced activation in certain brain regions associated with emotional control and aggressive behavior in young adult men. After two weeks without game play, the changes were diminished.
Playing highly competitive video games may lead to aggressive behavior
Research suggests that competitiveness in video games is a key factor in aggressive behavior, with highly competitive games leading to greater elevations in aggression. In contrast, less competitive games do not elevate aggressive behavior, regardless of violence content.
Kinder, gentler video games may actually be good for players
A new study by Ohio State University shows that relaxing video games can make people happier and more kind, while violent games lead to increased aggression. Players who played relaxing games chose to give their opponents more money and participated in pro-social behaviors.
Violent video games reduce brain response to violence and increase aggressive behavior
A University of Missouri study found that playing violent video games reduces brain response to violence and increases aggressive behavior in young adults. Participants who played violent games set louder noise blasts for their opponents during a competitive task, indicating increased aggression.
New study finds that violence doesn't add to children's enjoyment of TV shows, movies
A new Indiana University study challenges the common view that violent programming is a key factor in children's entertainment. Researchers found that violence has an indirect negative effect on boys' enjoyment, while girls do not show a decrease in preference for violent content.
Why are we fascinated by death, horror and violence?
Veteran psychologist Jeffrey A. Kottler examines what draws a wide audience to violent entertainment, focusing on normal people who enjoy the forbidden side of destruction and evil. The book explores psychological impact and future trends in society's attitudes toward violence.
Seeing and experiencing violence makes aggression 'normal' for children
Children who witness or experience violence are more likely to engage in aggression against others, as they perceive violence as a common and acceptable way to resolve conflicts. This study found that witnessing or being victimized by violence increases aggression six months later.
Violent games not to blame for youth aggression
A new study published in Journal of Youth and Adolescence found no link between violent video games and serious acts of youth aggression or violence. Instead, depression was identified as a strong predictor of youth violence and aggression.
Violent video games increase aggression long after the game is turned off
A recent study found that violent video games can stimulate aggression for an extended period of time, with effects lasting up to 24 hours. The researchers also discovered that women who played violent games did not experience increased aggression in the long term.
Study proves conclusively that violent video game play makes more aggressive kids
A recent study led by Iowa State University's Craig Anderson analyzed over 130,000 subjects worldwide and found that exposure to violent video games is a causal risk factor for increased aggressive thoughts and behavior. The research suggests that playing violent video games increases the likelihood of aggressive behavior in both short...
In absence of other democratic institutions, freedom of press can lead to cycles of violence
A new study by Jenifer Whitten-Woodring found that media freedom in countries without democratic institutions is associated with greater oppression of human rights. In the absence of other outlets for dissent, media freedom can lead to cycles of violence and repression.
Easier access to media by children increases risk for influence on numerous health issues
Children spend more than 6 hours a day with media, making parental monitoring difficult. Media exposure contributes to various health problems, such as violence, earlier onset of sexual intercourse, smoking initiation, and obesity. Education about media literacy and responsible consumption is crucial.
Violent video games can improve vision
A Tel Aviv University study found that playing violent video games can enhance the ability of teenagers to discriminate between subtle contrasts in color or shades of gray. After playing 50 hours of violent action games, players showed a significant improvement in contrast sensitivity, with some even experiencing up to 58% enhancement.
Rutgers researcher's study cites media violence as 'critical risk factor' for aggression
A large-scale Rutgers University study shows a conclusive link between media violence and real violence in adolescents. The research found that exposure to violent media significantly contributes to the prediction of violence and general aggression, even when other factors are considered.
Television viewing and aggression: Some alternative perspectives
A new study found a positive relationship between violent TV viewing and negative personality attributes among white males and females, and African-American females. However, African-American males showed no increased aggression or lower IQ despite watching violent TV.
Dartmouth researchers say too many children see extreme violence in movies
A study published in Pediatrics found that an average of 12.5% of 10-14 year olds are exposed to graphic violence in R-rated movies, with some films seen by up to 48% of this age group. The researchers recommend rethinking the movie rating system and promoting clearer messages to parents.
Video games and violence
A recent study by Patrick Kierkegaard suggests that there is limited scientific evidence linking video games to real-world aggression. In fact, research shows that violent video games have not led to an increase in violence but rather may have reduced it. The study's findings contradict previous work on the topic and highlight the need...
Public policy fails to address the effects of media violence on children
Research shows that exposure to violent media increases aggressive behavior in children, with over 14 scientifically documented effects on physiological and psychological well-being. Despite this, few people take action, and public policy has failed to address the issue.
This is your brain on violent media
Studies show that watching violent programs can cause parts of the brain to become less active, leading to reduced ability to control aggressive behavior. This effect is seen after repeated viewings of violence and is not observed with non-violent movies.
Violent TV, games pack a powerful public health threat
A University of Michigan study reveals that watching violent TV and playing video games significantly increases the risk of aggressive behavior in both children and adults. The research, conducted over half a century, highlights the detrimental effect of media violence on public health.
Researchers explore how violent video games are exemplary aggression teachers
A study of nearly 2,500 youths found that playing multiple violent video games increased aggressive behaviors and hostile attribution bias. The researchers identified seven parallels between video games and effective teaching methods, including adaptability to individual learners and teaching for real-world situations.
PG-13 films not safe for kids
UCLA researchers found that 90% of PG-13 rated films feature 'happy violence,' which can increase aggression and fear in young viewers. The study highlights the importance of media depictions on youth violence, with potential long-term consequences.
Psychologists publish 3 new studies on violent video game effects on youths
Two studies found that exposure to even cartoonish children's violent video games increases aggressive behavior in children and adolescents. A third study showed that frequent play of violent video games leads to a more aggressive worldview and behaviors in school-aged children. Both studies support the idea that violent video game exp...
Violent video games leave teenagers emotionally aroused
A new study found that adolescents playing violent video games exhibited increased emotional arousal and decreased executive function compared to those playing nonviolent games. The researchers used fMRI scans to measure brain activity during tasks requiring concentration and emotional processing.
Alarming revelation: Women over 50 live in fear
A Queensland University of Technology nationwide study found that women on lower incomes experience increased feelings of vulnerability as they grow older. They need information and want opportunities to learn about protecting themselves against violence, which affects their quality of life and social connectedness.
Teens half as likely to smoke if they are wise to subliminal messages in cigarette ads
A University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine study suggests that teens with higher media literacy scores are nearly half as likely to smoke. The results provide quantitative evidence linking media literacy to smoking and hold promise for schools and community organizations seeking to implement effective tobacco control programs.
Watching wrestling associated with date fighting and other violence
A study found that adolescents who watch wrestling on TV are more likely to engage in date fighting and other violent behaviors. Exposure to violence on television can affect adolescents' behavior, particularly when combined with socialization, the study suggests.
Iowa State psychologists produce first study on violence desensitization from video games
Researchers found that playing violent video games for 20 minutes can cause people to become less physiologically aroused by real violence. Participants who played violent games had lower heart rates and skin responses while watching footage of people being beaten, stabbed, and shot.
M-rated video games contain unlabeled violence, sexual themes, substances, and profanity
A study found that M-rated video games often contain violent content, blood, and profanity without clear ESRB descriptors. Researchers urge parents to play games with kids and discuss content to make informed decisions.
Mature-rated video games often include content not specified on warning labels
Researchers analyzed 36 M-rated video games and found nearly all contained violence and blood, with 4,268 human deaths observed. The study highlights the need for parents and physicians to recognize that popular M-rated games contain unlabeled content that may negatively influence children's perceptions and behaviors.
In video games, not all mayhem is created equal
Research by Iowa State University researchers found that rewarded violence in video games significantly increases aggressive thoughts and behavior, as well as feelings of hostility. In contrast, punishment did not affect aggressive behavior but had a lesser impact on hostile feelings and aggressive thoughts.
Possible predictors of relationship violence
Researchers found that certain acts, such as unexpected visits and controlling behavior, are linked to an increased risk of relationship violence. The study suggests that these behaviors can be used as warning signs to prevent future violence.
Violent video games lead to brain activity characteristic of aggression
A functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study found a causal link between playing violent video games and brain-activity patterns characteristic of aggressive cognitions. The research used a novel frame-by-frame method to analyze game content and measured brain activity, physiological measures, and audio data from the game.
Review of research shows that playing violent video games can heighten aggression
A recent review of research suggests that playing violent video games can lead to increased aggressive behavior in children and adolescents. The study found that boys tend to play more violent video games than girls, and those who do play may be more vulnerable to the effects of exposure.
Media violence linked to concentration, self-control
Researchers found that media violence exposure may be associated with alterations in brain function, particularly in the frontal cortex, which is linked to attention and self-control. High exposure to violent media was linked to reduced activity in this area, while low exposure showed increased activity.
Motion picture ratings fail to distinguish violent content
A new study found that MPAA ratings fail to predict the frequency of violence in individual films, with PG and R ratings containing a wide range of violent acts. The study suggests that objective content descriptions and measures of explicit violence are better indicators of big screen violence.
Prof: Stop explaining 'why' when teens kill; Instead reach out
Sociologist J. William Spencer argues that the way we understand and respond to teen violence shapes our solutions, emphasizing the need for mentoring programs and adult relationships over punishment and protection.
Violence in the media can lead to aggressive behaviour in young children
A review of North American studies found consistent evidence that media violence is associated with increased aggressive play and behavior in younger children. The effect is small but significant, particularly in boys, and persists even when socioeconomic factors are considered.
TV ads during sports depict unsafe behavior and violence
A study found that nearly one in five commercials during televised major sporting events show unsafe behavior, with bicycles ridden without helmets being depicted frequently. The study also revealed that 14% of commercials showed unsafe behavior, while 6% displayed violence, mostly in movies and TV programs.
Children see televised violence despite parent monitoring
A recent study of 677 families found that children's exposure to violent TV content is more common than previously thought, particularly among younger children and mothers. Parents' monitoring practices decreased with increasing child age, highlighting the need for continued education on media management and violence prevention.
Report shows 'unequivocal evidence' that media violence has significant negative impact on children
A recent report by the Association for Psychological Science reveals that media violence consistently shows a link to aggressive behavior in children. The short-term exposure to violent media can increase aggression, while long-term exposure can produce lasting increases in aggressive thought patterns and emotions.
Childhood exposure to media violence predicts young adult aggressive behavior
A study found that children who were exposed to violent TV shows at a young age were more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior as adults, including physical fights and crimes. The study suggests that parental co-viewing and content-based ratings can help mitigate the effects of media violence.
Study finds that children are exposed to too many violent movies
A study of over 5000 5th-8th graders found that 28% were exposed to extremely violent R-rated movies, including scenes of rape and murder. The researchers suggest better oversight of movie industry marketing practices and parental monitoring are needed to protect children.
Program to reduce impact of TV violence on kids shows promise
A study by Oregon State University has found that changing children's attitudes towards TV violence may be easier than directly changing their viewing habits. The program, called Project REViEW, teaches kids to become television detectives and analyze logical and illogical consequences of TV events.
Televised sex impairs memory for TV ads just like violence does, according to a new study
A study found that participants who watched TV programs with sex or violence had impaired memory for advertised products compared to those who watched neutral programs. The results suggest that sex and violence can impair commercial memory, potentially deterring advertisers from sponsoring such content.
Emotional problems of children living in war zones not recognised
A study found that children exposed to home bombardment and demolition reported higher rates of post-traumatic stress disorder compared to those not directly exposed. The research highlights the need for early detection and training of healthcare professionals to address child mental health problems in war zones.
Violent media not to blame for violent people
A University of Toronto professor's comprehensive review of research on media violence reveals no link between watching violent shows and aggressive behavior. The majority of studies found little to no evidence of a correlation between media violence exposure and increased violence in viewers.
Violence is a learned behavior, say researchers at Wake Forest University
A new study by researchers at Wake Forest University found a strong association between exposure to violence and the use of violence by young adolescents. The study, which included 722 Georgia middle school students living in or around public housing, found that even if children are exposed to other risk factors, social learning from e...
Violent video games can increase aggression
Research suggests that violent video games can increase aggressive thoughts, feelings, and behavior in individuals, particularly young men who are habitually aggressive. The interactive nature of these games may be more harmful than exposure to violent television and movies, as they require players to identify with the aggressor.
Teen Pregnancy And Sexual Risk Taking Associated With Violence
A recent study found that teenage girls who engaged in HIV-related sexual risk taking and were currently pregnant viewed more television programs depicting violence, women's abuse, or demeaning behavior. This suggests the need for TV networks to decrease violent content and promote healthy sexual behaviors.