There are many controversies surrounding video games ranging from the idea that they lead to violence due to the graphic nature of some video games, are addictive, or promote laziness and corpulence rather than going out to be active. Contrary to popular belief, there are many family-friendly, educational, and fun games available if a person takes the time to look past all the media hype about games like Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty. “Nearly 60% of the nearly 1,700 ratings we gave last year were E for everyone, meaning there is a large selection of games available suitable for all ages,” says Patricia Vance of the ESRB. If parents took the time to pay attention to what games their children are playing, then there wouldn't be such a big controversy on this topic. It is the parents' job to know their child's maturity level and be able to tell if he or she can handle certain games without taking them to the literal level. If a parent does not agree with the content of a video game, they have the right to tell their children that they are not allowed to play it. Despite widespread skepticism regarding the “violence and adult content” present in many video games, the benefits that derive from it are many. Many studies have shown that they stimulate education, increase brain function and improve motor skills. They have been proven to provide relief from mental pain and depression by creating a distraction from the problems weighing on a person's mind. Not only can they provide relief from mental pain, but some cases have shown that they can provide relief to people with a chronic illness or constant physical pain. Video games have been shown to encourage social skills and inte...... middle of paper ......and videogames.Works CitedAssociation, American Psychological, and Brown University. “New study shows benefits of violent video games for children's learning.” Washington Post. The Washington Post, December 2, 2013. Web. March 27, 2014."Children and video games: playing with violence." Children and video games: playing with violence. Np, nd Web. March 24, 2014.Gallagher, Danny. “7 Health Benefits of Playing Video Games: The Week.” The week. Np, nd Web. April 10, 2014. “Media Spotlight.” Are there benefits to playing video games? Np, nd Web. April 02, 2014. News, ABC. “The Benefits of Video Games.” ABC News. ABC News Network, December 26, 2011. Web. March 27, 2014."Pediatric News Blog Pediatric Articles Behavior Video Games: Pros and Cons." Utah Valley Pediatrics. Np, nd Web. March 26, 2014."ProCon.org Video Games." ProConorg Securities. Np, nd Web. March 25. 2014.