Game On!

Sensible Answers About Video Games and Media Violence

By: Courtney Plante, Craig Anderson, Johnie Allen, Christopher Groves, Douglas Gentile

Narrated by: Jean Rystrom

Length: 14 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

When someone brings up the subject of violent video games, it's usually for one of two reasons: first, to insist that media violence is turning our kids into killers; second, to deny that the media has any effects on us and to call anyone who says otherwise a moral crusader. Like most complex issues, the effects of media violence aren't so black-and-white. This book cuts through the rhetoric and grandstanding to directly answer the questions that parents, gamers, and researchers have.

Condensing more than 50 years' worth of scientific research into an easy-to-digest book that provides clear, practical answers, the authors also "show their work" with detailed explanations and scientific references for those who want that level of detail. Presented in an FAQ format, this book is the first of its kind: a handy reference guide that bridges the gap between media researchers and those who want scientifically accurate and informed answers stripped of the polarizing rhetoric. 

©2020 Courtney Plante, Craig Anderson, Johnie Allen, Christopher Groves, Douglas Gentile (P)2022 Courtney Plante, Craig Anderson, Johnie Allen, Christopher Groves, Douglas Gentile

Critic reviews

"This outstanding book is absolutely the best I have ever read for supporting parents and professionals alike with accurate information about the impact of media violence. The short answer/long answer to all the questions is a brilliant way to give practical information that can immediately be put into decisive, confident action. I love this book and can't thank the authors enough for writing it and compiling mountains of relevant research in extremely useable ways. I am sharing it with everyone I know." (Gloria DeGaetano, founder/director, Parent Coaching Institute; author of Parenting Well in a Media Age, Keep Our Kids Human)

"The authors know exactly what questions need answering, and they answer them in a clear style that should dispel many of the myths and misconceptions. I hope that this book will lead to a more civilized and rational debate about violent games and their place in society." (Professor Elizabeth Handsley, president, Australian Council on Children and the Media)

"The issues surrounding mass media violence are complex. This book helps us navigate this complex terrain in an easy and structured manner. It is a must-read for educators, parents, researchers, and policy-makers." (Edward Donnerstein, PhD, Dean Emeritus, University of Arizona)