n the shock and utter tragedy of the moment, imposing a complete ban on violent online video games to counter violence allegedly perpetuated on account of these games (whether an addiction to these games or anger over not being allowed to play them) may seem to be an effective immediate remedy to some. We are told there are countries that have taken the route. We are also told that there are online video games that feature a lot of violence, blood and gore. We are also told that in a world increasingly driven by and reliant on gadgets and devices, screen-fixation is an addiction altogether – not just among the young but also, alarmingly so, among those of age.

An immediate remedy may be effective – though some even argue otherwise – in the immediate, not the long run. There is the need therefore to develop a dialogue and eventually a mechanism that addresses challenges beyond the surface.

This week, our Special Report focuses on the debate surrounding violent online games and the repeated demands to put a ban on these games.

While the use of and addiction to violent online games among the youth poses clear health risks, as mentioned by experts, there is a need also to focus on societal changes and behavioural challenges that force individuals to take extreme steps and commit acts of violence. Our experts, this week, weigh in on those challenges from sociological and psychological angles.

We also look at the causes police investigations identify and how societies – parents, guardians, teachers – look at the issue. In our pieces we also look at what parents and guardians can do to ensure a healthier relationship between their children and their screens and online activities.