How Violent TV Shows Affect Children

The more television children watch, the more they will be exposed to violence, as the average American child will witness 200,000 violent acts on television before he turns 18, according to the Kids Health website. Since 32 percent of children between the ages of 2 and 7 have televisions in their rooms, reports Pediatrics journal, children have unprecedented access to the violent images that are found on daily broadcasts. It is important for parents to learn about how violence can influence their child's behavior and make the necessary changes.

  1. Desensitization

    • Children who frequently view violent behavior on television are more likely to become immune to the shock value that these sights would bring others, suggest experts with the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. The violent images seen on television become part of everyday life, so they do not affect these children as they get older. This then leaks into their everyday life, as these children can begin to lack empathy for the pain and suffering of others.

    Trauma and Fear

    • Fear is a common reaction after being exposed to violence, as children quickly learn that many bad things happen in the world daily. Violence in the news is one cause of this fear, as about 37 percent of parents report having a frightened child at least once per year after watching the news, according to Pediatrics. This programming can lead to nightmares that can stick with the child well beyond the viewing period.

    Accept Violent Behavior

    • Eventually, a child can learn to accept violence as a problem-solving method, especially if the main character in a television show continually uses violence as a problem-solving method. These television shows rarely show the consequences that violence can bring, treating it as a glamorous event, suggests Pediatrics. When a violent offender is not punished during a children's television program, it shows the child that violence is an acceptable way in which to deal with a problem and that nothing bad happens as a result of this behavior.

    Imitate Violence

    • Viewing television violence as a child could lead to real-world violence problems in adults. Those who view many hours of violent television as children are more likely to exhibit violent behavior as adults, according to the American Psychological Association. These individuals are also more likely to be arrested for a criminal act as adults. In addition, children are encouraged to admire the heroes in television shows, but these heroes often resort to violence to solve their problems. This can lead to the children using violence in a similar manner.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • Sensory Activities for Children Who Are Angry
      Children are bound to get angry from time to time. However, dealing with this anger may be difficult. Providing a routine that deals with anger and teaches a child appropriate emotional outlets is vital to keeping anger under control. Sensory activit
    • How to Teach Kids the Lord's Prayer
      Most children are quick to learn important concepts and messages. While teaching kids can sometimes be frustrating or difficult, it can also be very rewarding. This is especially true when it comes to teaching children about spiritual and religious t
    • Social Recreation Games for Toddlers With Autism
      One of the trademark qualities of autistic children is that they have trouble communicating with others. This makes it difficult for parents to encourage their autistic children to engage in social play but that doesnt mean its impossible. With patie