Question

Explain how the creators of the GAM theorise violent video games effects a person's process through the model.

Answer 1

Playing violent video games can have a negative impact on a person's thought processes and behavior, making them more prone to aggression. The General Aggression Model posits that violent video games can increase aggressive thoughts, emotions, and arousal, potentially leading to aggressive behavior. However, a definitive causal link between violent video games and criminal behavior is still under debate despite observed correlations.

Step-by-step explanation:

In their research on the effects of violent video games, Anderson and Bushman (2001) found that there are causal linkages between violent video game use and aggression. Specifically, children who had just played a violent video game demonstrated an immediate increase in hostile or aggressive thoughts, an increase in aggressive emotions, and physiological arousal that increased the chances of acting out aggressive behavior.

These findings suggest that playing violent video games can have a negative impact on a person's thought processes and behavior, making them more prone to aggression. However, it is important to note that there is ongoing debate in the field regarding the extent and impact of media socialization, and some studies have not been able to establish a definitive link between viewing violence in media and committing criminal violence.

In conclusion, while there is evidence to suggest that violent video games can affect a person's thought processes and behavior, it is important to consider multiple factors when studying the effects of media violence, and further research is needed to fully understand the relationship.

Answer 2

The creators of the GAM (General Aggression Model) theorize that violent video games can affect a person's thought process, emotions, and behavior using their model. According to the GAM, playing violent video games can lead to aggressive thoughts, increase hostile feelings, and influence aggressive behavior.

The model suggests that exposure to violent video games can prime aggressive thoughts and concepts in a person's mind. This means that playing violent games can make aggressive thoughts more accessible and likely to come to mind in certain situations. These aggressive thoughts can then influence a person's emotions, leading to increased feelings of anger, hostility, or even desensitization to violence.

Furthermore, the GAM proposes that playing violent video games can affect a person's behavior by providing them with aggressive scripts or behavioral scripts. These scripts can influence how a person perceives and responds to real-life situations. For example, someone who frequently plays violent video games may be more likely to respond to a conflict with aggression rather than seeking non-violent solutions.

It's important to note that the GAM is a theoretical model, and the effects of violent video games can vary from person to person. While some individuals may be more susceptible to the influence of violent video games, others may not experience the same effects. Additionally, other factors such as individual characteristics, upbringing, and social environment also play a role in how video games impact individuals.