Lots of people worry that playing violent video games will make teens more aggressive or mean. Some think these games cause bad behavior, but it’s not quite that simple. Here’s why.

First of all, not every teen who plays violent games acts violently. Many people can play these games and still be kind, friendly, and respectful toward others; they know the difference between a game and real life. Just because there is fighting in a game doesn’t mean someone will start fighting in real life.

Some would argue that violent video games make teens more aggressive or agitated. After all, some games are quite extreme, and players can get frustrated if they continuously lose. However, one should also consider that there can be many different reasons for a teen to feel upset or act out, such as problems at school or at home. So, we can’t just blame video games.

Additionally, not all video games are harmful. Many violent video games have rules and are focused on strategy and fun. Some games even have engaging stories or challenges that teach teamwork and problem-solving. These kinds of games can actually help people think critically and work together better.

In my opinion, playing violent video games does not necessarily make teens violent. Parents should ensure that the games are appropriate for their kids’ age and that they know when to stop playing. But I don’t believe video games are a major influence on teen behavior. There are many other factors—like family, friends, social media, and school—that shape a teen’s behavior much more than video games.

I believe that, in some minimal ways, violent video games can affect certain teens, but they aren’t the primary cause of misbehavior. It is the overall picture of a teenager’s life that molds them into who they are.