On a web site where the game "Ethnic Cleansing" can be purchased, makers of the game make the following boast:

"Run through the ghetto blasting away various blacks and spics in an attempt to gain entrance to the subway system, where the jews have hidden to avoid the carnage. Then, if YOU'RE lucky.... you can blow away jews as they scream "Oy Vey!", on your way to their command center."

. Have you ever wondered about the video games your child is playing at home? Unfortunately, racist and violent images are part of many video games currently available to purchasers-many of whom are teenagers--on the open market.

Nearly 66 million children and teens under the age of 18 are video game players. One-third of all video games purchased are rated "M" for mature audiences only.

The increasing trend of bigotry and violence in video games marketed to teenagers is causing people to take a closer look at the social and psychological impact theses games may have on young people. A 2003 study of violent video games found that 78% of all violent action shown in these games was shown in close ups. Nearly 50% of the violent games also featured humor.

The good news is that not all video games are this bad. In fact, many video games have been shown to actually enhance higher-level thinking and motor skills. A recent study conducted at the Beth Israel Medical Center in New York found that doctors who played video games made 37% fewer mistakes while performing laparoscopic surgery and completed related tasks 27% faster than their counterparts.

Our concern as parents and educators should focus on the impact video games have on the development of pro-social attitudes in children. Our concern as citizens should focus on the impact these images and themes may have on our ability to build a stronger, more inclusive, and mutually respectful community.