#tellusatoday: Violent video games play role?

We asked our followers on Twitter whether violent video games and movies are, in part, to blame for mass shootings. Comments are edited for clarity and grammar:

Having been in the video game business for more than 25 years, I do not believe they lead to violence. It's about good parenting.

— @mpolack

I don't know how being desensitized to violence can be a good thing, or be worthy of protection under First Amendment rights.

— @ChrisStene1

Violent video games are released worldwide, not just in U.S. They are a non-factor. Strict gun laws in rest of world make the difference.

— @boileratlaw

I believe the games are reflective of American culture rather than vice versa.

— @Gabe_Herman

Video gamers have the potential to create scenarios in which the game becomes their reality.

— @ReynoldsBream

We are all influenced by our environment. Violent games and TV contribute to a culture of violence, but are not solely responsible.

— @not_tina_fey

Did people kill each other before video games, movies, TV and radio? They sure did.

— @CrazedCarlinist

Video games are irrelevant as studies have shown. Easy access to guns, alcohol are to blame as has been shown over and over.

— @MWhalan

Violent movies, games share little blame for shootings. It is up to parents, authority figures to guide children, ID potential issues.

— @tmwarren22

Competitive games anger me. Dramatic or morbid games depress me. Violent games that are neither of the above are therapeutic.

— @ClevelandRock

For more of this discussion, follow @USATOpinion or search #tellusatoday on Twitter.