Poll: 58 Percent of Adults Believe Violent Video Games Creates Violent Behavior

Violent video games has always been a hot topic, especially when it comes to discussing the possibility of gun control. Earlier this year, we reported on a poll that said 75 percent of parents believe violent video games leads to violence, and today, we’re hearing of another poll where 58 percent of adults believe the same thing.

According to a Harris Poll, which surveyed 2,278 adults in the U.S., roughly 58 percent of adults polled believe video game violence does contribute violent behaviors in teenagers. In addition to that surprisingly high number, 38 percent of adults polled said they are completely unaware of the Electronic Software Rating Board’s (ESRB) labeling, with 33 percent of adults polled letting their children play whatever they want.

“The findings underscore the lack of awareness Americans have about the video game rating system, as well as the confusion in the market,” said Harris Poll president Mike de Vere in a statement. “They also factor into a larger discussion playing out across our country and on a political stage around how violent games impact our youth, with President Obama recently announcing his desire to look into ways to fund research examining the impact of violent video games on children.”