Crime Solicitors

Researchers in the Netherlands say they have identified a “violence” gene which makes it more likely children will become addicted to playing violent computer games such as ‘Grand Theft Auto’.

The team at the University of Amsterdam identified a variation in the serotonin transporter gene – and also found that children with this gene variation are more likely to suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which sometimes known as the happiness chemical – when levels of serotonin dip this can result in conditions such as depression. Serotonin levels in the brain are enhanced by participating in pleasurable activities, however.

Children with the gene variant may therefore deliberately seek out activities involving violence, such as violent television programmes or films.

The extent to which violent computer games and films may influence violent behaviour in real life has been the subject of debate among child health experts and criminologists.

Some psychologists believe that exposure to violence through entertainment – including violent computer games – may de-sensitise some individuals, making it less traumatic for them to commit acts of violence in their normal, everyday lives.

Researcher Dr Sanne Nikkelen from the University of Amsterdam said that the results of the study indicate that children who enjoy violent entertainment games and other violent media are partly influenced by genetic factors.

Dr Nikkelen added:

“This means that children with this gene variant are more likely to seek out stimulating activities, such as violent television viewing and video game playing.

“It is important to study the relationship between media use and ADHD-related behaviours.”

Dr Nikkelen said children with ADHD-related behaviour issues are often challenged academically and can encounter difficulty mixing with their peers. Such children can also have a higher risk for substance abuse.

The study involved 1,612 parents from the Netherlands whose children were aged between five and nine years. The study team took DNA samples from the children at birth and their parents recorded the amount of violent media the children were exposed to.

The researchers found that, although previous studies have shown children are in partly influenced by their parents’ choice of viewing and entertainment, children with a particular variation in the serotonin transporter gene were more likely to choose to watch violent media.

The study is the first to examine children’s viewing and a possible genetic influence in their choice of visual entertainment.

The study is published in the Journal of Communication.

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