NCJ Number
150937
Date Published
1994
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article reviews research findings on the links between the viewing of media violence and the aggressive behavior of child viewers, followed by suggestions for how schools may counter the negative effects of viewing media violence.
Abstract
Research shows that continued exposure to media violence and aggression has significant effects on emotions and behaviors. It yields less sensitivity to others' pain and suffering, unrealistic fears, and the approbation of aggression as a response to conflict or stress. The effects of media portrayals can be counteracted in the school and the home. The National Association for the Education of Young Children has stated, "Of all the sources and manifestations of violence in children's lives, media violence is perhaps the most easily corrected." Education can provide children and youth with positive coping strategies and models for behavior, as well as critical tools for examining media content. School strategies should create a school culture of nonviolence, develop school rules that reinforce nonviolent behaviors, provide playground supervision that encourages nonviolent games and behaviors, promote a process for conflict resolution, and work with students when themes of media violence appear in their play and in their work. Schools should also help students be critical media viewers and emphasize the difference between reality and television. Another area in which teachers can make a difference is by pushing for legislated controls on programming.