Impact of TV Violence

Research Proposal # 104531

Child, Youth Issues > Teen, Adult Issues
Communication > Mass Media
Communication > Television

This paper discusses the impact of TV violence on society and, in particular, on children.

750 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that children learn very rapidly and they are exposed to many scenes of violence on television each day. The writer points out that it is amazing that the majority of parents do not perceive this violence to be destructive for their children's development. Children especially are at a stage in their development where they learn so quickly that they absorb information. They learn from television that the easiest way to solve disputes is through the use of fists or guns. The writer maintains that the problem is that many people do not believe that a clear and definite link exists between children's aggressive behavior and the violence they so regularly observe being depicted on television. The writer concludes that research, especially in the form of longitudinal studies, shows the clear-cut connection between TV violence and children's behavior.

Outline:
Executive Summary
Statement of Need
Project Description
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The best studies that have been conducted since 1972 are longitudinal studies related to TV violence and its impact on the attitudes and behavior of children and adolescents. Other studies have consisted of cross sectional and field studies and, together, researchers have made use of all three types in a triangulation strategy to determine the effects of media violence on children. The most convincing studies also are discussed and evaluated by Centerwall, and these researchers also report the findings of professional groups such as the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association. Basically, all of these studies found that physical aggression among children is significantly increased as a result of exposure to violence in television. Other studies reveal a clear link between TV viewing at a young age and later juvenile delinquency and crime."

Sample of Sources Used:

Anderson, Craig & Bushman, Brad. "The Effects of Media Violence on Society". Science 295, 29 March 2002: 2377-2379.
Centerwall, Brandon. "Television and Violence: The Scale of the Problem and Where to Go from Here". JAMA 267.22, June 10, 1992, 3059-3063.