Secretary & Treasurer

Rev. Fr. Rajkumar Mervyn SDB

The Virtual Violence Epidemic: A Growing Concern in College Campus

The proliferation of media, particularly in the digital age, has dramatically altered the way young people consume information and entertainment. One of the most concerning trends is the increasing exposure to violent content in films, television, and video games. This virtual violence has raised significant concerns about its potential impact on the behaviour and attitudes of young people, particularly college students.

The Impact of Virtual Violence on College Students
The exposure to virtual violence can have a profound effect on college students in several ways:

Desensitisation: Repeated exposure to violent content can lead to desensitisation, making individuals less emotionally affected by real-world violence. This can contribute to a callous attitude towards violence and a decreased empathy for victims.
Aggression: Research has shown a correlation between exposure to violent media and increased aggressive behaviour in individuals. College students who consume a lot of violent content may be more likely to engage in aggressive or violent behaviour, both online and offline.
Fear and Anxiety: While exposure to violence can lead to desensitization, it can also cause fear and anxiety. College students who are exposed to excessive violence may experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Normalisation of Violence: The frequent portrayal of violence in media can contribute to the normalisation of violence in society. This can make it seem more acceptable or even inevitable, leading to a decreased willingness to challenge or prevent violence.

The Reflection of Virtual Violence in College Life

The effects of virtual violence can be seen in various aspects of college life including:
Interpersonal Relationships: Exposure to violent content can contribute to aggressive behaviour among college students, leading to conflicts and confrontations. This can have a negative impact on interpersonal relationships and the overall campus climate.
Cultural Activities: Virtual violence can also influence cultural activities on campus. For example, students may choose to participate in or organise events that glorify violence or promote aggressive behaviour.
Sports Activities: The competitive nature of sports can sometimes be exacerbated by exposure to violent media. Students may be more likely to engage in aggressive or unsportsmanlike behaviour on the field or court.
Preventing Virtual Violence: Cultivating a Culture of Peace and Harmony;
To address the issue of virtual violence among college students, it is essential to promote a culture of peace and harmony on campus. Here are some strategies that can be implemented:
Media Literacy Education: College students should be equipped with the skills to critically analyse and evaluate media content. Media literacy education can help them understand the potential impact of violent media and make informed choices about what they consume.
Positive Role Models: The presence of positive role models on campus can have a significant influence on students’ attitudes and behaviours. Encouraging faculty, staff, and student leaders to promote peaceful and respectful behaviour can create a more positive campus environment.
Conflict Resolution Training: Providing students with training in conflict resolution skills can help them manage disagreements and conflicts peacefully. This can reduce the likelihood of resorting to violence or aggression.
Community Engagement: Engaging students in community service and volunteer work can foster a sense of empathy and social responsibility. These experiences can help students develop a greater appreciation for the value of human life and the importance of peace.

The Role of Professors and Parents

Professors and parents play a crucial role in addressing the issue of virtual violence among college students. Professors can incorporate discussions about media literacy and the impact of violence into their courses. They can also create a classroom environment that promotes respectful and inclusive behaviour.
Parents can also play a role by monitoring their children’s media consumption and encouraging them to engage in healthy activities. By working together, professors and parents can help to prevent the negative effects of virtual violence and create a more peaceful and harmonious campus.
In conclusion, the prevalence of virtual violence in media is a growing concern that has significant implications for college students. By understanding the impact of virtual violence, promoting media literacy, and cultivating a culture of peace and harmony, we can work towards addressing this issue and creating a safer and more positive campus environment.