Roseanna Singletary
ENC 1102-Warren
Digital Nation Essay
February 18, 2013
Gaming Addiction
Gaming addiction affects the social, physical, academic, career, and material life of an
individual. Addiction refers to the excessive use of something. Excessive utilization of a
substance or product can produce tragic results. There are various areas of addiction that can be
experienced. One of them is Internet gaming. While internet gaming may have some positive
effects on its users, such as building social relationships and entertainment. The negative effects
of gaming seem to outweigh the positive and often lead to addiction.
Gamers on the other hand may have a different view that is in support of online gaming.
First, arguing the point that gaming is entertaining and a stress reliever. Secondly, by showing
how playing games and analyzing different ways to beat their opponents build analytical skills.
The contemporary world has become digital and internet connection has reached remote parts of
the world. As a result, many activities can be accomplished online. We have become accustomed
to using computers in every aspect of our daily lives, using them for everything from
entertainment, school, banking, music and even reading books. We now see computers as
necessities, which add to the growing number of Internet misuse.
Singletary 2
The film “Digital Nation” brings the world into the reality of Internet usage and points
out various effects. The film offers information related to digital life and investigates the risk
myths, possibilities and realities posed by the culture of the digital lifestyle. One area of concern
raised in the film is gaming addiction. (Digital Nation Roundtable 4).
Internet gaming is an enjoyable activity undertaken by many people, especially the youth during
their leisure time. There are various gaming systems to choose from, they include Play Station by
Sony and Xbox by Microsoft. The two systems are accessed for games, such as FIFA versions,
Halo, Ever quest, World of War craft and Need for Speed among many (Griffiths 808).
Individuals addicted to these games play them all day every day. The social life of these people
becomes tied to their playing partner and the computer.
Gaming addiction can be compared to other addictions such as drug and alcohol
addictions. Gaming addictions result from the tendency of the game to hold the interest of the
participant. This can also be both positive and negative. Players find games entertaining. The
entertaining capability of the game holds the interest of the player and also leads to the addiction.
Internet games also provide a challenge and a struggle to win. The tendency of winning fuels the
participants need to play. Those addicted to Internet gaming master various skills needed to beat
the game. The adrenaline rush they get from winning or moving on to the next level increases
their desire to play. This in turn further fuels the addiction and breeds the negative effects that
not only have an impact on the player but, also affects their family, friends and others they have
close ties to.
Singletary 3
As the addiction progresses the gamer devotes more time to the game, ignoring important
activities. Gamers give little or no attention to real world activities such as academics, family,
relationships, and work. Addiction to computer games also has an impact on the financial
position of gamers. Digital Nation estimates that more than 100 hours of work are spent by
gamers. Gamers often stay up all hours of night the playing games, resulting in them calling in
frequently and eventually to stop showing up for work all together. This means the productivity
of these people suffers and translates to further financial loss. Some internet games also are
played at a fee. This means more money being spent on virtual items (Griffiths 35).
Addiction to computer games affects the health of gamers. Spending more time than
required on the computer can result in skipping meals and less physical activity or exercise.
Children lacking physical exercise combined with poor eating habits leads to obesity (Ferguson
808).
In addition, addiction to computer games results in physical strain. People who suffer
from physical strain experience symptoms that include headache, backache, eye strain and could
even result in a condition called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Carpal tunnel Syndrome is an
inflammatory disorder usually caused by repetitive hand or wrist movement symptoms include
numbness and pain in the shoulders, wrist, elbows and hands. Addiction to computer games
increases aggressive behaviors in children. According to a study conducted by the Mayo Clinic
(5), players addicted to shooter-style computer games are detached from society. They develop
aggressive thoughts, which affect their interaction with people.
Singletary 4
Addictions to computer games are on the rise. Although the contemporary generation is
inclining toward adoption of digital technology in most areas, the negative effects of technology
ought to be considered by those using it. Computer games are praise worthy innovations, but for
those who develop a problem for there, may need to be some regulations put in place.
Singletary 5
Works Cited
Mayo Foundation for medical Education and Research. “Children and TV: Limiting your child’s
Screen time.” 2012. Mayo foundation for medical education research. 8 February 2013.
< http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/children-and-tv/My0052>
Digital Nation Roundtable. “Digital Nation Roundtable discussion, Freedom.” 2010. Public
Broadcasting Service. 8 February 2013
< http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/digitalnation/veiw/#roundtable.
Ferguson, Christopher. “The influence of television and video game use on attention and school
Problems: A multivariate analysis with other risk factors controlled.” Journal of
Psychiatric Research 45.6 (2010): 808-713
Griffiths, Michael. “Online video gaming: What should educational Psychologist know?”
Educational Psychology in Practice 26.1 (2010): 35-40.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Roseanna Singletary
ENC 1102
Reality TV Journal #2
February 2, 2013
People tune in night after night to view reality television shows and find themselves compelled
to watch them. You watch one show and find yourself sucked into watching another episode
until finally you’ve followed the whole season.
I was a faithful viewer of the Atlanta/Basketball housewives shows, watching week after week,
rushing home from work, school, cutting errands and household chores short just to tune in.
When I couldn’t get home in time, I recorded them or watched them on demand. I could not wait
to see what clothes the ladies were wearing, were they were vacationing, their hairstyles and
makeup and most importantly what shoes they had on.
The shows took a turn from glitzy and glamorous to drama filled and violent. Reality was far
from what was being portrayed. What real woman takes the time put on her best dress, shoes,
accessories, makeup, gets her nails and hair done to go to lunch or dinner with the same group of
women week after week to act like gladiators.
African American women are often negatively stereotyped as being aggressive, angry, loud,
bitter, and ghetto. These types of shows are adding to these false perceptions. These shows are
also sending out a negative message to the younger generation who see these women as role
models and think because they see it on TV it must be acceptable. I just feel that instead of
looking at the next big paycheck, a little more thought should be put into the images they portray
and the underlying messages these shows are sending out.
ENC 1102
Reality TV Journal #2
February 2, 2013
People tune in night after night to view reality television shows and find themselves compelled
to watch them. You watch one show and find yourself sucked into watching another episode
until finally you’ve followed the whole season.
I was a faithful viewer of the Atlanta/Basketball housewives shows, watching week after week,
rushing home from work, school, cutting errands and household chores short just to tune in.
When I couldn’t get home in time, I recorded them or watched them on demand. I could not wait
to see what clothes the ladies were wearing, were they were vacationing, their hairstyles and
makeup and most importantly what shoes they had on.
The shows took a turn from glitzy and glamorous to drama filled and violent. Reality was far
from what was being portrayed. What real woman takes the time put on her best dress, shoes,
accessories, makeup, gets her nails and hair done to go to lunch or dinner with the same group of
women week after week to act like gladiators.
African American women are often negatively stereotyped as being aggressive, angry, loud,
bitter, and ghetto. These types of shows are adding to these false perceptions. These shows are
also sending out a negative message to the younger generation who see these women as role
models and think because they see it on TV it must be acceptable. I just feel that instead of
looking at the next big paycheck, a little more thought should be put into the images they portray
and the underlying messages these shows are sending out.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Roseanna Singletary
ENC1102
Gallery Essay
January 29, 2013
Unspoken Emotion
Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is
captured forever.”It remembers little things long after you have forgotten everything.”(Aaron
Siskind). Photographs give vivid memory, which cannot be expressed by words. It brings out a
special feeling and understanding of the moment, the place, the environment and the people or
creatures that are captured. It allows us to visualize, interpret, and explain the mood or nature
of a given situation. A photograph is very powerful since it evokes many emotions. It gives us a
record of our lives.
Innocence by Rachel Hammond
In this photograph, there is a young boy with dark hair. He has big dark eyes. Tears can be seen
in his eyes. I am moved by the contents of this photo. Although the language is non texual, the
face, tears, snot in the nose and dark eyes suggest that he has been crying. The poor kid is hurt.
He clearly seems confused by what is going on around him. Nobody is concerned with his state
of emotion. He is now probably in deep thought. Very little attention, if any, has been give to
the environment, making him think deeply of his next options. Therefore, he feels lonely and
abandoned.
Singletary 2
Devil by Amanda Gross
In this picture, a little girl is standing in a white sundress. Her hands are behind her back, and
she has a devilish grin on her face. The picture suggests a mysterious mixture of anger and
unpleasant attitude. The grin is evidence of how uncomfortable she feels. Her hands behind her
back could suggest that she is helpless and has been forced into her current state. In addition, the
devilish face means that there is nothing that she can do to change the situation to suit her needs
and emotions. Her posture and facial expression could mean boredom or she may be tired.
On the other hand, the face could mean cunning or ingenuity. This expression may be used to
show how cruel she is. It can demonstrate how inconsiderate she is, especially, when her needs
are not met.
Angel by Amanda Gross
In this case, the little girl described previously is now smiling. This is an awesome image.
The change of facial expression shows the current mood of the little girl. She has probably
seen some hope. Her problems or cause of the devilish face seem to have been resolved. This
transformation has been clearly depicted with the photos. A feeling of hope is inspired by such
a beautiful photo. She feels good and has now developed a positive attitude due to the change of
feelings. The general atmosphere of the picture is now cheerful. Generally, she feels successful
and this can increase her level of confidence. When children smile they embody the innocence
and beauty of God.
Singletary 3
I chose these photographs because they highlight the plight of children. At a young age they do
not fully understand their surroundings. Therefore, they are helpless and vulnerable. The first
two pictures voice the alarm to the helplessness and vulnerability. They make people appreciate
children and never abandon their needs. The third picture is also interesting because it explores
the beauty and innocence of the young generation. The smile and the natural beauty of these
children give hope in times of despair. They seem to enjoy the moment and are not worried about
tomorrow. The third photo is an encouragement to overcome hard times. The smile of the girl
shows an instant transformation as compared to the previous photos. Our minds are, therefore,
refreshed, reset and rejuvenated. This photo is a symbol of hope for a brighter future.
These photos convey meaning to any viewer. The meaning that the different photographers have
attributed to the photos may not be necessarily what the viewer is likely to deduce. A picture can
be worth a thousand words. The emotion displayed by a picture is impossible to dispute. A photo
stays with you and is retained for memory. Basically, it is easier to understand and remember
anything explained with the help of a picture.
Pictures stimulate thinking. By viewing a photo, one is inspired to think about what is actually
taking place at that moment. When viewing a photograph, we usually see an object at first sight.
We then try to relate to the people, places and objects in the photograph to one another and try to
get an understanding. The meaning may differ from one individual to another. Finally, photos
Singletary 4
help to bridge the gap caused by language barriers. People speaking different languages may
not understand each other. They might be referring to a similar object, but the medium of
communication makes it difficult. With the aid of a photo containing the object, the problem is
solved.
ENC1102
Gallery Essay
January 29, 2013
Unspoken Emotion
Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is
captured forever.”It remembers little things long after you have forgotten everything.”(Aaron
Siskind). Photographs give vivid memory, which cannot be expressed by words. It brings out a
special feeling and understanding of the moment, the place, the environment and the people or
creatures that are captured. It allows us to visualize, interpret, and explain the mood or nature
of a given situation. A photograph is very powerful since it evokes many emotions. It gives us a
record of our lives.
Innocence by Rachel Hammond
In this photograph, there is a young boy with dark hair. He has big dark eyes. Tears can be seen
in his eyes. I am moved by the contents of this photo. Although the language is non texual, the
face, tears, snot in the nose and dark eyes suggest that he has been crying. The poor kid is hurt.
He clearly seems confused by what is going on around him. Nobody is concerned with his state
of emotion. He is now probably in deep thought. Very little attention, if any, has been give to
the environment, making him think deeply of his next options. Therefore, he feels lonely and
abandoned.
Singletary 2
Devil by Amanda Gross
In this picture, a little girl is standing in a white sundress. Her hands are behind her back, and
she has a devilish grin on her face. The picture suggests a mysterious mixture of anger and
unpleasant attitude. The grin is evidence of how uncomfortable she feels. Her hands behind her
back could suggest that she is helpless and has been forced into her current state. In addition, the
devilish face means that there is nothing that she can do to change the situation to suit her needs
and emotions. Her posture and facial expression could mean boredom or she may be tired.
On the other hand, the face could mean cunning or ingenuity. This expression may be used to
show how cruel she is. It can demonstrate how inconsiderate she is, especially, when her needs
are not met.
Angel by Amanda Gross
In this case, the little girl described previously is now smiling. This is an awesome image.
The change of facial expression shows the current mood of the little girl. She has probably
seen some hope. Her problems or cause of the devilish face seem to have been resolved. This
transformation has been clearly depicted with the photos. A feeling of hope is inspired by such
a beautiful photo. She feels good and has now developed a positive attitude due to the change of
feelings. The general atmosphere of the picture is now cheerful. Generally, she feels successful
and this can increase her level of confidence. When children smile they embody the innocence
and beauty of God.
Singletary 3
I chose these photographs because they highlight the plight of children. At a young age they do
not fully understand their surroundings. Therefore, they are helpless and vulnerable. The first
two pictures voice the alarm to the helplessness and vulnerability. They make people appreciate
children and never abandon their needs. The third picture is also interesting because it explores
the beauty and innocence of the young generation. The smile and the natural beauty of these
children give hope in times of despair. They seem to enjoy the moment and are not worried about
tomorrow. The third photo is an encouragement to overcome hard times. The smile of the girl
shows an instant transformation as compared to the previous photos. Our minds are, therefore,
refreshed, reset and rejuvenated. This photo is a symbol of hope for a brighter future.
These photos convey meaning to any viewer. The meaning that the different photographers have
attributed to the photos may not be necessarily what the viewer is likely to deduce. A picture can
be worth a thousand words. The emotion displayed by a picture is impossible to dispute. A photo
stays with you and is retained for memory. Basically, it is easier to understand and remember
anything explained with the help of a picture.
Pictures stimulate thinking. By viewing a photo, one is inspired to think about what is actually
taking place at that moment. When viewing a photograph, we usually see an object at first sight.
We then try to relate to the people, places and objects in the photograph to one another and try to
get an understanding. The meaning may differ from one individual to another. Finally, photos
Singletary 4
help to bridge the gap caused by language barriers. People speaking different languages may
not understand each other. They might be referring to a similar object, but the medium of
communication makes it difficult. With the aid of a photo containing the object, the problem is
solved.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
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