The Effects of Computer Games on Aggression (OCR A-Level Psychology): Revision Notes

15.5.1 The Effects of Computer Games on Aggression

Cultivation Theory and Aggression

Cultivation Theory (Gerbner, 1969):

• Suggests that extensive exposure to mass media (including computer games) distorts reality perception.
• Regular gaming can lead to beliefs such as:
• The world is more violent and hostile.
• Overestimating the likelihood of personal involvement in violence.
• Developing stereotyped views of women, minorities, and law enforcement.

Mean World Syndrome:

• A cognitive bias where the world is perceived as more dangerous than it is.
• Gerbner's theory originally focused on TV but applied to computer games, especially MMORPGs.

Reversing Distorted Perceptions:

• Real-life interactions with diverse social groups can help correct these distorted perceptions (White, 2012). Research Findings:

• Williams (2006): Found that one month of playing violent games altered perceptions of real-world dangers.

• Fox & Potocki (2015): Surveyed 351 adults and found a link between gaming, aggression, and hostile sexism.

  

Desensitisation and Aggression

Desensitisation:

• The process where repeated exposure to violent games reduces sensitivity to violence.

• Physiological desensitisation involves a reduced sympathetic nervous response (e.g., lower heart rate, less adrenaline). Impact of Desensitisation:

• Decreased emotional response to violence.

• Reduced empathy and sympathy for victims of violence.

• Potential link to real-life violence, such as mass shootings (Cantor, 2003). Research Findings:

• Brockmyer (2021): Concluded that violent games increase desensitisation, potentially leading to increased aggression.

• Carnagey et al. (2007): Found that violent game players had lower physiological responses to real-life violence compared to non-violent game players.

  

Evaluation of Computer Games' Impact on Aggression