Study: Violent videogames don't cause teen violence

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- With so many ways for kids to consume media, violent video in movies and games is a top concern for parents. But a new study indicates that teens know the difference between fantasy and reality.

Parents and politicians have long blamed violence in movies and games for contributing to societal violence. So the study that says consumption of graphic media isn't a factor is tough to swallow.

Stetson University researchers did two studies. The first one looked at the frequency of violence in popular movies from 1920 to 2005, and then they compared that to homicide rates. They found no correlation.

In the second study, scientists looked at violent videogame use alongside federal data on youth violence from 1996 to 2011. The study showed no increase in violent incidents.

So does this give everyone a free pass? Children's Hospital Los Angeles psychologist Stephanie Marcy says absolutely not.

"Every child is completely different," Marcy said.

Marcy says parents need to monitor all the media their child participates in, including social media. But she says parents should also worry about what kids are missing when they're with their screens.

"Getting outside in the world, socializing, being active," Marcy said. "So look at more of what it's replacing, not so much what they're being exposed to."