Essay Writing Sample 54 - What can be done to minimize the bad effects of computer games?

Essay Writing Sample 54 

Nowadays many people have access to computers on a wide basis and a large number of children play computer games. What are the negative impacts of playing computer games and what can be done to minimize the bad effects?

In recent years, computer and internet usage has increased excessively, and it is a fact that almost everybody from all kinds of age groups has access to them, including children. Children’s access to inappropriate internet data, such as adult video games, may have some serious adverse effects on them. This essay will discuss the problems computer games can cause and suggest some possible solutions regarding this topic.

The most important negative impact of playing computer games on a child is the risk of their psychology being adversely affected by the inappropriate imagery shown in these games. The majority of popular computer games these days all include the same type of war elements, such as shooting, murder, blood, and hatred, etc. These elements can easily cause trauma in the mind of an innocent child. If that child continues to grow up playing these types of violent games, he/she will possibly have a higher risk of becoming a criminal in the future. According to an article I've read, the vast majority of teenage school shooters in the United States all had a personal history with these kinds of games.

My suggested solution to this problem is age restriction. Children under the age of 16 should not have any type of access to games where these violent images are present. Nowadays, there are already some small warnings regarding the game content on top of the cases, but this is not enough. The sale of games with violent content to minors should be illegal, and the people responsible for this action should get prosecuted. This restriction should also include online sales. People need to acknowledge the fact that the possible side effects of computer games may be as severe as the usage of alcohol and tobacco.

In conclusion, it has to be stated that not every computer game has negative effects on a child, and some games can even be a good tool for them to get used to technology and spend free time. However, parents should be aware that the violent content of some computer games is highly dangerous for a child's mind, and they need to take immediate action on this matter.

Approximiately 360 words / Written by Arda D. (IELTS)