US politicians push for health warnings on video games

Link violent games to aggression in young people

14 January 2009 14:08 GMT / By Verity Burns

American politicians are pushing for health warnings to be placed on video games, similar to those placed on cigarettes and alcohol.

Democratic US congressman Joe Baca, co-sponsored by Republican Frank R.Wolf, has proposed the Video Game Health Labeling Act of 2009 for all T and M rated games (Teen and Mature) in the States.

This would see games with these classifications carry a label reading: "Warning: Excessive exposure to violent videogames and other violent media has been linked to aggressive behaviour".

Baca said: "The video game industry has a responsibility to parents, families, and to consumers – to inform them of the potentially damaging content that is often found in their products".

"They have repeatedly failed to live up to this responsibility. Meanwhile research continues to show a proven link between playing violent games and increased aggression in young people. American families deserve to know the truth about these potentially dangerous products".

Baca cites numerous studies into video games and young people as proof there is a "neurological link" between children and teenagers who play violent video games, and aggressive behaviour.

"We must hold the video game industry accountable and do everything in our power to ensure parents are aware of the detrimental effects that violent games can have before making decisions on which games are appropriate for their children to play", Baca added.

"I am proud to introduce the Video Game Health Labeling Act of 2009, and am hopeful my legislation can work to stop the growing influence of violent media on America's children and youth".