The Research I gathered, all show examples of tests done on different people, typically young adults or children. The article Video Games Desensitize to Real World show Scientists focusing on Video Games and it's affect on young adults. What they already know is 'Video-games can alter physiological responses typically aroused by real violence' and 'increases aggressive thoughts, angry feelings, physiological arousal and aggressive behaviours, decreasing helpful behaviours'. They also know 85% of video games were violent, engaging the players in serious violent actions. First they asked the individuals what were the 4 most violent vid. games and what were the 4 non-violent vid. games. This was to give the Scientists an idea of what the individuals perceived as violent and non-violent. They then tested the individuals through heart rate and skin response measurements, while they played the vid. games. In conclusion those who were 'new' to vid. games, showed an increase in heart rate and skin response whereas those who already played vid. games showed no change in heart rate and skin response. Proving the Scientist theory that these games are always improving in a way that is fun and individuals eventually become physiologically 'numb' to the violence. Although some may disagree that engaging in these violent games could actually be beneficial.
This also applies to other sources in the media, with the same affect on individuals. I have come up with my own conclusion based on research. For desensitisation to occur, there is engagement and interaction between the viewer and the source. It only takes three senses to engage and interact: sight, sound and touch.
Please take the time to watch the video below. Caution, intense amount of violence.
The following article Can Media Violence Desensitize You? has some interesting statistics and examples that support my stance on the issue. The article Desensitize due to Media also has interesting statistics focusing more on children.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this blog and to be honest at first had a little doubt. However watching the video was assuring enough that this is in fact a topic that should be taken seriously. i was disgusted by the people watching people getting severely hurt and walking around as if they didnt see it. Great topic and am very interested as to see what your next blog consists of :)
ReplyDeleteHay Nick,
Deletethanks for reading my blog. Yeah i've always felt too much exposure to violence can desensitize a person. The videos pretty brutal but true. Got one more post to do so stay tuned :)
thanks,
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ReplyDeleteHeeeeey Eden. I understand your topic well and the points you have made are very definitive that technology in our world- no matter the type and increasing development- is impacting and affecting the younger generation a lot more than in decades past. I for one can see it, my younger step-brother watches Ben 10 and he then goes around shooting plastic guns and things like that. Its sad to see these things happening, and we can only hope that it doesnt affect them to such an extent when they are older.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to reading more of what you think, goodluck :)