Beginning in the 1950's studies about violence and the growth of violence showed that like drug addiction, addiction for violence needs an ever more potent i.e. bigger dose to keep the addict happy. Events and Portrayals of violence need to be heightened in order for the "player" to enjoy the process at the same level. People who are cruel to animals eventually move on to people as their targets. The level or degree of violence against targets changes/increases as time goes on. It's an upward syndrome which we are seeing the fruits of everyday in this country. [Portion removed due to disrespectful comment or offensive language]