Academics criticise new study on violence in videogames

A new US study suggesting a link between violent videogames and aggression has been criticised by a group of academics.

The American Psychological Association (APA) recently put together a taskforce to review hundreds of studies and papers published between 2005 and 2013, identifying a consistent relationship between violent videogame use and increases in aggressive behaviour, cognition and feelings.

It also suggested gaming can lead to decreases in pro-social behaviour, empathy and sensitivity to aggression, leading to the conclusion that violent videogame use is a risk factor for aggressive or violent behaviour.

However, more than 200 academics have since signed an open letter criticising the document, noting that the methodology of the study is highly suspect.

It was pointed out that a significant part of the material had not been subjected to peer review, while suggesting the report may have leapt to conclusions.

The open letter described the APA's current policy statements on videogames as "misleading and alarmist", saying: "The scientific evidence is inconsistent and the APA should adopt a neutral stance."