A new study released by the University of Montreal shows that when boys are exposed to violence on TV at preschool age, they are more likely to be violent and anti-social in their teenage years.
Exposure To Violence Affects The Brain
Doctors know that when children are exposed to violence in person, they have a change in brain development. Children who witness violence before the age of five have difficulty with safe attachment and emotional regulation. Over the last few decades, several studies have been conducted to see if there is a connection between on-screen violence and changes in children.
The Journal of Adolescent Health published a study in 2007 proving that chronic exposure to violence in the media and through video games has short-term and long-term effects on a child.
In 2017, The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) released a newsletter for families stating that watching violence on television impacts behaviors and value systems in children.
The AACAP warns parents that media violence can cause children to become desensitized to violence; they imitate violent behaviors and begin to see violence as an acceptable solution to problems.
Boys Are More Affected Than Girls
In 2022, PUBMED published research specifically linking exposure to violent video games directly to mental health, violence desensitization, and increased aggression. This study also showed that the age of the child exposed and the gender are influential factors. These researchers and others have concluded that boys are more likely to be exposed to and influenced by violent media than girls.
The new study published by researchers at the University of Montreal confirms previous research. Young children – particularly boys- who are exposed to violence through media at a young age are “more likely to become antisocial and violent themselves.”
The study included almost 2,000 children and took place over 11 years. Researchers analyzed children who were exposed to violent media between the ages of three and four, following up with the subjects at age 15 to see if exposure affected development.
Researchers found that only boys – not girls- at age 15 had an increase in antisocial behavior, generalized violence, use of weapons, threatening of others, stealing, and joining gangs.
Choosing Appropriate Entertainment
When choosing media and video games, start with the parental guidance rating systems that are in place. For movies and television, refer to the Motion Picture Association guidelines. If your child plays video games online or through a gaming system, start with the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB). Remember that these companies’ standards may not be the same as yours.
If you struggle with handling media for your children, the American Academy of Pediatrics has an article that may help guide your decisions.