E-Thesis 70 views 69 downloads
Parental perceptions and decisions relating to violent video games before and after the COVID-19 pandemic / KERI KNUTSON
Swansea University Author: KERI KNUTSON
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUthesis.67944
Abstract
Video games have become an increasingly popular pastime and form of entertainment for all ages and demographics. However, video games with violent themes have been a societal concern since the release of what was deemed the first violent video game in 1976. While formal definitions of what constitut...
| Published: |
Swansea, Wales, UK
2024
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Crick, Tom ; Tyrie, Jacky |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa67944 |
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| Abstract: |
Video games have become an increasingly popular pastime and form of entertainment for all ages and demographics. However, video games with violent themes have been a societal concern since the release of what was deemed the first violent video game in 1976. While formal definitions of what constitutes a “violent video game” may differ, previous research that explored the effect of violent video games on players has shown a connection between aggressive or violent behaviour and playing violent video games, yet many other studies disproved any correlation, much less causation. Thus, parents are left with an unclear evidence base, mixed messages, and assessments to make when their children ask to play video games with violent content. This thesis explores parents’ opinions on violence in video games, their perceptions of the impact of violent video games on children, and it examines parents’ general concerns about video game play. The research investigates how parents make decisions for their school-age children regarding violent video games, including their own childhood experiences, their child’s age, video game rating systems, and where and how they seek advice and information. Additionally, this work considers potential changes in parents’ attitudes and decisions about violent video game play in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine periods. This study also analyses headlines from 2020-2021 to ascertain the media’s view of violent video games and its prospective impact on parents’ perceptions or decisions. This thesis posits that not only do parents need better access to accurate information about violent video games to make informed decisions for children, but it is necessary for schools to be more informed on violent video game play so they can better support children and their families. Therefore, this research project provides a timely foundation for more evidence-informed critical discussions with children, parents, and policymakers at various levels. |
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| Keywords: |
video games, violent video games, parents, parenting, COVID-19, pandemic, digital play |
| College: |
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences |
| Funders: |
Partner Research Study – University of Central Oklahoma |