According to research by E.KAT.O in the framework of “SafeNetHome”, 92% of children aged 4-17 play electronic games. Questions arise as to whether they affect the physical and mental health of children, and if there is any substance to accusations that they have caused an increase in violent behaviour.

Research in Europe and the USA hasn’t provided any conclusive evidence either way on the question of violence.  Neither is there any scientific evidence that moderate use of electronic games cause problems to children’s health. 

Some of the most common problems associated with excessive gaming are:

• Obesity and lack of fitness
• Pain in the hands,
• Poor vision  
• Epilepsy

In recent years the average amount of time young Europeans spend on games has increased from 2.8 hours per week to 4.3 hours.

Physical problems can be treated, but there is also concern about the psychological effects? Is violence necessary in electronic games? And how harmful can it be for children?

Recent games have included slogans such as:

• “Kill your friends, guilt-free”
• “How would you feel if you killed the neighbour’s cat or dog?”
• “As easy as killing a baby with an axe”

Violence in videogames is categorised. Children’s preferences are as follows:

• Fantasy violence - 32%
• Sports - 29%
• General - 20%
• Human violence - 17%
• Educational - 2%