Recently, my partner and I discovered that our daughter had been exposed to significant violence in media, unbeknownst to us. We were engrossed in the trending series “Squid Game” when our daughter wandered downstairs for a drink after her bedtime. Upon seeing the screen, she casually remarked, “Oh, you guys are watching ‘Squid Game?’”
Stunned, my partner and I exchanged glances, baffled that our seven-year-old was familiar with such a brutal show, especially since we had never watched it around her or her siblings. Naturally, we asked how she knew about it. She explained that a friend on her bus had been playing a Roblox game inspired by the Netflix series.
We were not surprised to learn that violent content permeates Roblox. While the platform offers many interactive games suitable for kids, it also hosts some that are quite violent. Research indicates that while exposure to violence in media does not automatically make a child violent, it can increase the risk of aggressive behavior.
To illustrate this, some researchers draw parallels between smoking and lung cancer. Not everyone with lung cancer is a smoker, yet smoking increases one’s vulnerability to the disease. Similarly, not every child exposed to media violence will become aggressive, but they may be more susceptible to such behavior.
Moreover, children often lack the emotional maturity to distinguish between fiction and reality. As Michelle Garrison, a researcher at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, points out, younger children may perceive violent imagery as a direct threat to their safety, leading to issues like nightmares and sleep disturbances, even when the violence is cartoonish. In fact, a study shows that exposure to violent media can foster aggressive thoughts and behaviors while diminishing empathy and social skills.
The simplistic portrayals of good versus evil in media can warp a child’s understanding of morality. If a child identifies as a “good guy,” they may see anyone who disagrees with them as a “bad guy,” limiting their ability to empathize with different perspectives. Conversely, if they view themselves as the “bad guy,” they might feel resigned to their actions, believing change is impossible.
Some argue that iconic characters like superheroes from Marvel, who often engage in violence against villains, can normalize aggression. While parents might justify these actions as heroic, children may struggle to grasp the complexities of these narratives.
Despite differing opinions among experts, many caution against cherry-picking data to support either viewpoint. For instance, Christopher Ferguson’s study suggests that while children may mimic violent behavior in play, it does not necessarily predict future violence. However, Dan Romer from the University of Pennsylvania critiques this stance, arguing that it oversimplifies the impact of media.
In today’s tech-driven world, it is unrealistic to shield children completely from violent media. However, parents can take steps to minimize exposure. Reviewing TV and video game ratings is a great start. Parents should also engage with their children’s media consumption, which fosters bonding and provides opportunities to discuss moral lessons as they arise.
Implementing rules, such as allowing device use only in shared spaces, can help monitor content better. This approach ensures that parents remain present, providing guidance and maintaining a peaceful environment in the child’s bedroom.
If children begin to exhibit concerning behaviors, such as becoming overly fixated on screens or displaying anger over device restrictions, this may indicate a need for increased supervision or professional help.
Ultimately, even with precautions, children will inevitably encounter violence in media. When this happens, parents should seize the opportunity to engage in discussions about real-world consequences and appropriate responses.
For more insights on parenting and media consumption, consider checking out this resource on home insemination and family building, or delve into this guide for expert advice. Additionally, Resolve offers an excellent resource for understanding family-building options.
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Summary:
The presence of violence in media can significantly affect children’s behavior and emotional development. While exposure does not guarantee aggressive behavior, it heightens susceptibility to such responses. Parents can mitigate risks by monitoring content, engaging in discussions about morality, and setting rules around media consumption. Open dialogue about real-world consequences can help children navigate their understanding of violence in media.
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