A University of Toronto professor's comprehensive review of research on media violence reveals no link between watching violent shows and aggressive behavior. The majority of studies found little to no evidence of a correlation between media violence exposure and increased violence in viewers.
A new study by researchers at Wake Forest University found a strong association between exposure to violence and the use of violence by young adolescents. The study, which included 722 Georgia middle school students living in or around public housing, found that even if children are exposed to other risk factors, social learning from e...
Research suggests that violent video games can increase aggressive thoughts, feelings, and behavior in individuals, particularly young men who are habitually aggressive. The interactive nature of these games may be more harmful than exposure to violent television and movies, as they require players to identify with the aggressor.
A recent study found that teenage girls who engaged in HIV-related sexual risk taking and were currently pregnant viewed more television programs depicting violence, women's abuse, or demeaning behavior. This suggests the need for TV networks to decrease violent content and promote healthy sexual behaviors.
A Case Western Reserve University study of 2,244 youngsters ages 8-14 found that those with the greatest exposure to violence are at high risk for severe psychological trauma. The study investigated the relationship between violence exposure and symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, posttraumatic stress, and dissociation.
A study of 100 PSAs found that narratives showing consequences of violence are more appealing to adolescents and effective in reducing violence, unlike PSAs with celebrities simply telling kids not to be violent.