• A.J., 12, sees clear line between reality and games
• Jeremy, 8, finds violence still too close to life

Video-game research yields wide-ranging conclusions
A hot issue like video-game violence is fertile ground for research and reports. For those seeking guidance, however, many of these studies produce contradictory conclusions.

Ratings system may not help parents much
Vague ratings on game packages can leave parents confused and ineffective as monitors until they actually see what happens on the screen.

Parents need to take the first step, author says
Gloria DeGaetano has a simple mission: To educate parents on the effects of video-game technology and violent games on their children.

Murder, pimping, drugs: Subjects guarantee concern
The concern over video-game violence seems relevant as long as there are games like "Grand Theft Auto," where the basic idea is to kill people, steal cars, earn points.

GameWorks card will keep kids out of violent games
The downtown Seattle mega-arcade doesn't require parental permission for young players, but some changes are in the works. As of this month, patrons can buy special debit cards which won't work on violent games.

Where to go for more information
Online resources for gaming and gaming issues.