Contact: Sammy McDavid
STARKVILLE, Miss.--A new faculty member at Mississippi State University will receive major recognitions in coming months for his research into the potential relationships between video games and violence.
Kevin D. Williams, an assistant professor in the communication department, is being honored with the Broadcast Education Association's 2006 Best Doctoral Dissertation Award. The award and accompanying cash prize will be presented next month at the national organization's annual convention in Las Vegas, Nev.
Also, a research paper derived from his doctoral-degree research at the University of Georgia is being recognized as the top faculty paper submitted for the International Communication Association's convention this summer in Dresden, Germany. This honor also includes a cash prize.
Williams, who joined the MSU faculty in August, said his communication-based investigations have focused on how violent content in video games may combine with human frustrations encountered in playing difficult games.
"The research suggests that frustration with game play may be a more important factor in inspiring violence than merely viewing graphic violence in the games," Williams said.
In addition to his MSU teaching duties, Williams said he continues to investigate the human impacts of video games, specifically "what other factors may contribute to feelings of aggression while playing video games." He also is examining the role of violence in other forms of media, as well as other psychology-related media events.
Previously, Williams received national recognition for work regarding the use of violence in superhero cartoons.
NEWS EDITORS/DIRECTORS: For additional information on Dr. Williams' research and related honors, contact him at (662) 325-3320 or kdw170@msstate.edu.