Religious video games are computer games that incorporate various aspects of religion into their gameplay, including religious themes, stories, and characters. These games have become increasingly popular among people who identify as religious or spiritual, particularly in Christian communities.
They also raise important questions about how these types of games impact players' perceptions of morality, sexuality, and relationships. In this article, we will explore how religious video games influence cognitive processes related to sexual behavior, moral reasoning, and ethical imagination.
How do religious video games influence sexual cognition?
The way that religious video games portray sexuality can have significant effects on players' cognitions about sex and sexual behavior.
Some games may present sexuality as something inherently sinful or immoral, while others may emphasize its role in procreation or intimacy within marriage. This can lead to confusion or internal conflict for players who are trying to understand their own beliefs and values around sexuality.
Many religious video games feature explicit violence or other disturbing content that can desensitize players to sexual imagery and make it more acceptable in real life.
Impact on sexual cognition
Research has shown that exposure to violent media can increase aggression and desensitization towards violence. Similarly, religious video games that include graphic depictions of sexual acts may cause players to view sexual behavior as less taboo or shameful. One study found that playing a game with sexual content increased participants' arousal levels and decreased their feelings of guilt and anxiety about engaging in similar behaviors in real life. Another study showed that exposure to pornography can alter brain activity associated with empathy and emotional regulation, which could potentially affect sexual decision-making.
Effects on moral reasoning
Religious video games also impact the way players think about morality and right vs. wrong. Many games encourage players to act according to biblical principles, such as avoiding lust, adultery, and premarital sex.
This can create a dichotomy where anything outside these boundaries is seen as immoral, even if it does not harm anyone else. Players may struggle to reconcile their spiritual beliefs with everyday situations where they encounter sexuality outside of their chosen faith tradition.
Some religious video games present violence and retribution as appropriate responses to sexual transgressions, which can reinforce harmful attitudes toward women and LGBTQ+ individuals.
How do religious video games influence ethical imagination?
Ethical imagination refers to our ability to imagine alternative outcomes and consequences when making decisions. Religious video games can shape how we think about right and wrong by offering us limited options for addressing complex moral dilemmas.
In one popular game, players must choose between killing innocent civilians or allowing them to die from radiation poisoning. This kind of choice forces players to grapple with the consequences of their actions but only presents two unethical options. It does not allow for nuance or consideration of other possibilities.
Impact on ethical imagination
Limiting the range of possible solutions to an ethical problem can lead to black-and-white thinking and a lack of empathy for those who hold different values. In addition, many religious video games focus on judgment rather than compassion, suggesting that those who make immoral choices will be punished by God. This can lead to feelings of shame and self-blame among players who are already struggling with guilt and regret.
Religious video games often portray sexuality as inherently sinful or dangerous, which could cause players to view it negatively and avoid engaging in healthy relationships.
Religious video games have significant impacts on cognitive processes related to sexual behavior, moral reasoning, and ethical imagination. They can lead to confusion and internal conflict for players trying to reconcile their beliefs with everyday life experiences. They may also reinforce harmful attitudes towards women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people who do not share their faith tradition.
They provide an opportunity for players to explore difficult topics in a safe and controlled environment, which can promote critical thinking and reflection.
How do religious video games influence sexual cognition, moral reasoning, and ethical imagination?
Religious video games can influence several psychological factors related to sexuality, morality, and ethics. Firstly, they often portray explicit content that is prohibited in real life settings, such as sex scenes or nudity. This may lead players to develop an unrealistic view of these concepts, which could potentially affect their perception of what is acceptable in society.