Does Violence In Media Affect Children's Behavior? Essay

Running head: DOES VIOLENCE IN MEDIA AFFECT CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR?                                     1                                          

DOES VIOLENCE IN MEDIA AFFECT CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR?
Analytical Report
Marjorie Gaines
April 8th 2012

DOES VIOLENCE IN MEDIA AFFECT CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR                                                                                   2  

ABSTRACT
Decades of research have demonstrated that exposure to violence on television can cause increases in aggression. The recent emergence of violent video games has raised new questions regarding the effects of violent media. Recent research has shown that connections between children playing violent video games can cause later aggressive behavioral problems.   In retrospect studies have also shown a twelve percent increase in aggressive behavior after watching violent television as well.   Some parents and psychologists have said that there are children who benefit from the proficiency and coordination of playing video games while others disagree.   Critics of video games claim that watching violent television is less detrimental due to the children not physically playing out the violence.   Research has also shown heavy viewers, which is four or more hours a day, put in less effort at school, have poorer reading skills, play less friendly with friends, have fewer hobbies and activities, and are more likely to be overweight.   The American Psychological Association says there are three major effects of watching violence in the media (ex: video games/television) children may become less sensitive to the pain and suffering of others, children may be more fearful of the world around them, and children may be more likely to behave in aggressive or hurtful ways toward others.

DOES VIOLENCE IN MEDIA AFFECT CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR                                                                                 3  

DOES VIOLENCE IN MEDIA AFFECT CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR  
    It is no...