PETALING JAYA: It often begins innocently enough – a few rounds of Roblox, Minecraft or Free Fire – but for many young minds, online gaming may turn into a daily habit that shapes their thoughts, emotions and social interactions.
While gaming alone does not necessarily lead to criminal behaviour, factors such as family environment, personality and social context can influence how repeated exposure to violent gameplay shapes attitudes, said criminologist Prof Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy of Universiti Sains Malaysia.
He said that while many parents view gaming as harmless entertainment, exposure to violent content and excessive screen time can have lasting psychological effects if left unchecked.
He said studies conducted over the past two decades have shown that violent games can increase short-term aggression and reduce empathy among players.
The American Psychological Association, he said, has documented modest but consistent links between violent gameplay and aggressive thoughts.
Sundramoorthy said games that reward fighting, shooting or taunting can also normalise aggression as acceptable behaviour.
“Over time, repeated exposure may blunt empathy and emotional control, especially among children who already struggle with anger or attention issues.
“Multiplayer games also expose players to toxic communication and cyberbullying, which further harm social and emotional well-being.”
He warned that easy access to smartphones, free downloads and the thrill of competitive online play have turned gaming into a powerful force in children’s lives.
“We need to understand both the benefits and the risks so we can manage it better,” he said.
Sundramoorthy added that excessive screen time can also lead to poor sleep, lower academic focus and irritability, all of which can amplify aggression.
However, he cautioned that banning children from electronic devices outright is rarely effective and may even drive them to play in secret.
Instead, he suggested that parents co-play with their children, discuss the game content honestly and set fair playtime limits.
A handwritten note found during the arrest of a 14-year-old boy over the murder of his Form Four schoolmate at SMK Bandar Utama Damansara 4 reportedly contained scribblings using terminology commonly found in violent mobile games, along with ramblings of personal frustrations.
One of the messages were reported to be “This world is fake. I have already won”.
Psychologist and counsellor Assoc Prof Dr Fauziah Mohd Saad of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris said violent video games can have a particular impact on children who use them as an “escape” from real life.
“When a child feels emotionally disconnected, lonely or powerless, they may immerse themselves in a fantasy world where they feel in control.
“Constant exposure to violence can desensitise them, reduce empathy and blur the line between fiction and reality, especially if they lack strong emotional support at home or school,” she said.
Fauziah added that early recognition of emotional distress is crucial in preventing tragic outcomes.
Warning signs include an obsession with violent content, fascination with weapons or power, social withdrawal and expressions of violent fantasies, she said.
“Teachers and parents should stay alert to behavioural changes, monitor online and gaming activities and build strong communication and trust with children.
“Early intervention through counselling, school support or reporting a concerning case to the relevant authorities can prevent escalation.
“The key is to create a safe and supportive environment where children can express themselves,” she said.