Psychologists who counsel adults are given the task of analyzing the impulses and actions their clients exhibit. This assignment can become much more difficult when the subject of analysis is a child who may be unwilling or unable to communicate issues of psychological health. Stressing the influence of environmental factors on development, some with careers in psychology have become experts in parenting. As many parents around the country are beginning making their Christmas shopping lists, two Iowa State University psychologists have been conducting research to determine if the most popular gifts on the market are also constructive to the child's mental health. Professors Craig Anderson and Doug Gentile have determined that children often develop behavioral patterns from the content presented in video games. Of particular concern to the researchers are games which promote the harm of others. "Our research suggests that what matters most is whether you have to harm other characters to advance in the game," Gentile said. "Increased aggression may result from practicing harming others, even if it is unrealistic or cartoonish." This year, the psychologists recommend music simulation, trivia or movement games such as Wii Fit Plus as well as pro-social games like The Sims to teach kids to be more cooperative and helpful to others. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the employment of psychiatric counselors is expected to increase by 21 percent until 2016.  |