What Are the Effects of TV Violence on Children?

Violence on television affects children differently than it does adults. Your child, depending on her age, might not have a firm grasp on the difference between fantasy and reality, which could significantly alter how she reacts to television.

Effects on Children

Children that see violence on television might become numb to violence or imitate the violence they see. They might also accept violence as a problem solving solution or identify with the characters on television on commit violence.

Warning

Children who see realistic violence or unpunished violence are more likely to display violent behavior.

Limits

One effective way to avoid these behaviors is to limit how much violent television your child watches. Limiting TV will give your child more time for other activities.

When Watching TV

If your child sees violent acts on television, remind her that violence is not a good way to solve a problem. Also tell her that the images on the screen are not real, and the violent acts are not really being committed.

Further Options

If you are having trouble limiting your child's TV watching or she is exhibiting violent behavior, you might want to take her in for a consultation with a child psychiatrist.

References

• Children and TV Violence

Resources

• TV Bloodbath: Violence on Prime Time Broadcast TV