Despite their graphic violent content and mature ratings—or maybe because of it—a number of video games are likely to be at the top of many Christmas lists this year

Despite their graphic violent content and mature ratings--or maybe because of it--a number of video games are likely to be at the top of many Christmas lists this year. These games might be mere entertainment to some, but a researcher at the University of Missouri, Columbia, has found that playing them changes a person's brain function and desensitizes chronic gamers to real-world violence.

"It can reduce inhibitions against aggressive behavior and increase the possibility of inflicting violence on others," says Bruce Bartholow, assistant professor of psychological sciences.

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