Gaming The Console Summary

Linda Bernstein’s article “Gaming the Console” addresses the possible effects that video gaming has on teenagers and children. The article supports both sides of the debate: whether or not video gaming has negative consequences. Ultimately, Bernstein lets the reader form his or her own opinion on the subject. Some scientists and experts claim that video gaming is harmful as it may negatively affect areas of the brain, academic and social skills, and can become highly addictive. Other experts argue that some video games are educational and have positive physical benefits. Throughout the article, the author successfully utilizes three images that allow the reader to visualize what is written, and ultimately they correspond with both the pro and con sides of the debate.
The first image, located on the cover of the article, represents the ‘typical’ gamer that plays violent video games and, as a result, has an increased potential to become aggressive. “Violent games and movies activate areas of the
brain associated with aggression” (Bernstein, 14). The male’s features depict a slightly more rebellious appearance; he has spiked hair, thick eyebrows, dark eyes and an ear piercing. This male also looks very concentrated and actively engaged in the game. This can give readers the impression that he is playing a fast-paced, action game, which corresponds with the information on the cover of the article. The image effectively supports the text and corresponds with the information regarding increased aggression and violent video games, a point that is brought up on the negative side of the argument.
The second image can either support the argument that video gaming in moderation can be an enjoyable past time, or that teenagers are spending too much time playing video games, which leads to negative consequences.
The image depicts that video gaming may be an enjoyable pastime with friends, as the four teenagers look like they are enjoying themselves. “It’s a fun way of being with your friends when you are home relaxing. It is competitive and fun, but I only do it when I have extra time” (Bernstein 14). On the other hand, this image can support the notion that teenagers are spending too much time playing video games. Instead of being physically active or productive, these young teenagers are sitting on a couch, extremely concentrated on the video game. “Teens are spending time playing video games that they once spent reading” (Bernstein, 14). The image effectively supports the text but could depict either side of the argument, depending on the perspective of the
reader.
The third image can either support the notion that video gaming can have positive benefits or may depict someone who plays too many video games. The boy in the image has a wide smile and appears to be enjoying himself, which could support the argument that video gaming can have positive benefits. On the other hand, the boy is grasping his head with his hands, holding a video game controller and has his video game headphones on. This may indicate that he spends a lot of time playing video games. The image correlates well with the question on the image, “Do you game too much?” The reader is left to decide the answer to the question. Once again, this image effectively supports the text while being neutral as it can support either side of the argument.
Linda Bernstein’s article, “Gaming the Console” is a neutral article. The reader is left to decide whether they support the argument that video gaming amongst teenagers leads to negative consequences, or that video gaming in moderation can potentially have benefits. The three images Linda Bernstein uses in the article effectively support the text and correspond with both sides of the debate.