| Violent video games, an increasingly pervasive form of violent media, have been specifically implicated as causes of aggression and violence. Though most research on the consequences of violent video games has focused solely on aggression, there is reason to believe that exposure to violent video games leads to increases in a multitude of deviant behaviors. Recent longitudinal studies have linked mature-rated, risk-glorifying (MRRG) video game play in early adolescence with increased levels of aggression, alcohol use, cigarette smoking, risky sex, and risky driving later in adolescence. In the present thesis we propose that mature video games stimulate the development of a deviant identity, by way of identification with a socially deviant protagonist. A series of experimental studies were conducted to test this hypothesis and investigate a causal mechanism underlying the deviance- promoting effects of mature-rated video games. Taken together, this series of studies suggests that playing Mature-Rated, Risk-Glorifying video games leads to more than increases in aggressive behavior. While a multitude of studies in the media psychology literature have linked violent video games and aggression, our findings suggest that that these games cause a general erosion of moral standards. This novel understanding of the consequences and psychological processes underlying violent video game play has powerful implications, both theoretically and practically. Our identity simulation account of video game effects is relevant to the continuing study of interactive media and public health efforts to limit unhealthy and dangerous behaviors in adolescents and young adults. |
