Damage caused by violent computer games on children aged 5-7 in Shiraz: Mixed Method Study

Camputer games are one of the attractive recreational activites for children that takes considerable amount of children’ free time.. These games affect children’ physical, mental and psychological health. The aim of the present study was to investigate the complications of addication to violent computer games in mental, behavioral and physical dimention in children aged 5 to7 in shiraz.

The study was an mixed method study that used natural observation methods, interventions in the form of a single subject study, and a qualitative analysis through semi-organized and telephone interviews with parents . Frist, a list of active game nets in Shiraz was prepared. The game nets where considered no age-restrictions for registered members and usual users were identified. Among them, one of was randomly selected by lot. The game net had 90 users, among which 38 were registered member Behavior and the reactions of five boys aged 5-7 was observed and recorded in 8 months after their parents signed a formal consent. Then some the alternative gaming program was given to the children for 8 months. At the end the parents were interviewed for the last time about their childrens’ behaviors.

in psychological dimention, computer games increased false excitement, anxiety, impulsive behaviors, fear of loneliness, nail biting, and decreased interest in doing homeworks. In behavioral dimention, the games resulted in aggressiveness,violent showups, immorality, and angriness. They physical induced vision problems, sedentaryness, and overweight.Using alternative games reduced childrens aggressive behaviors and improved adaptation with their playmates and siblings.

Reducing play time and replacing computer games with childrens favorite games (puzzle games, painting, coloring, and educational classes) may reduce the negative effects of computer games.