Background. - This research aims to evaluate the relationship between the use of violent video games (VVG) and emotional desensitization (ED). Method. - Two hundred and one pupils between the ages of 12 and 16 years completed a questionnaire measuring VVG exposure, empathy and ED. Results. - Correlations and regression analyses revealed links between exposure to VVG and ED. The VVG experience is a risk factor in the presence of two moderating variables: preexisting empathy and the amount of time spent playing VVG. Conclusions. - The results suggest that exposure to WG is a risk factor for ED. (C) 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.