Video Gaming: Reality and Myth,

Wednesday, February 13, 12:45 – 2:30 p.m.,
 New Trier High School, Room C234, 7 Happ Road, Northfield

The headlines about video gaming frighten many parents, who worry about issues of social isolation, constant exposure to violent images, and the effects of long-term sedentary behavior. Cynthia Mee, Ph.D., will discuss the possible harm that can accrue from playing “first-person shooter” games, and offer strategies on managing your child’s exposure and interest in them. Yet Dr. Mee’s research reveals a complex and varied reality behind the media-fueled myths. Exploring why video gaming is so attractive to adolescents, and examining the creative skills employed, serves to assuage parental fear with knowledge and confidence. Dr. Mee, a professor of education at National-Louis University, specializes in young adolescent behavior, especially as seen through the lens and perceptions of media, popular culture and gender.   Flyer  Map to location.