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Kids and violent video games: One senator calls for research

Violent video games and programming affect the lives of American children, says Sen. Jay Rockefeller. Legislation introduced by Rockefeller this week will investigate their long-term effects.

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Electronic Arts/AP
Violent video games and TV for kids would be investigated by the National Academy of Sciences if Rockefeller's legislation passes. Seen here: an image from the video game 'Need for Speed: Most Wanted.'
  • By Associated Press Associated Press

| CHARLESTON, W.Va.

Sen. Jay Rockefeller says with all of America focused on the safety of their children, it's the perfect time to look at the role of violent TV programming and video games play in their lives.

The West Virginia Democrat says he introduced legislation on Dec. 19 that would direct the National Academy of Sciences to thoroughly investigate the impact of violent games and other content on children's long-term well-being.

He specifically wants it to study whether the interactive nature of the games and the vivid way violence is portrayed affects kids. The report would be due within 18 months.

Mr. Rockefeller says court decisions show that many people still believe violent games are no more dangerous to children than classic literature or Saturday morning cartoons.

But he says parents, pediatricians and psychologists know better.

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