One of the most hotly debated topics today is whether violent video games cause bad behavior. This topic has been studied for almost 30 years and there are still major differences of opinion. Many psychologists say that violent video games cause bad behavior and argue that games like Manhunt, Grand Theft Auto and Modern Warfare desensitize people to violence, making it a norm in society. Others disagree and argue that these games, while they can be very violent, can help people develop critical thinking skills. (However, non-violent video games are preferred for this.) The truth is that violent video games do both; studies have indicated that some games increase aggressive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in both the long and short term. But studies also show that some benefits include visual attention on the periphery of a computer screen, improved contrast sensitivity in adults, and some games require teamwork, which helps develop collaboration skills. Why do some like video games while others despise them? As stated before, video games can cause many problems and many benefits, which explains why people love or hate them. Video games are very repetitive and that's what makes them such good teachers. Douglas Gentile, author of the article 'Video games affect the brain, for better or worse', states: “. . . repetition is a precondition for long-term potentiation: the strengthening of brain cell connections (synapses) through repeated use that is believed to underlie memory storage and learning.” That said, violent video games involving strategy can increase the number of critical thinkers in the world. However, the fact that video games have such a huge influence on gamers is exactly why so many people in society are... middle of the road... nor bad. Rather, they are a powerful form of entertainment that does what good entertainment should do: influence us. "Works Cited Glazer, Sarah. Do Video Games Have Educational Value? SAGE Publications., 2006. Richard Gallagher, Ph.D., AOK Interview. Video Games: Cons and Pros (n.d.). Violent Video Games: Psychologists Help Protect Children from harmful effects. Washington DC, June 8, 2004.Craig A. Anderson, Ph.D. Frequently Asked Questions about Violent Video Games and Violence in the Media (2009). “Children and Violent Video Games.” Technical Topics - Children and Violent Video Games (n.d.).Douglas A. Gentile, Ph.D. Video Games Affect the Brain, for Good or Bad. Dana Foundation, 2011.Knorr, Caroline 10 alternatives)." common sense media, 09.