Most of us know that children shouldn’t be witness to violent acts but some of us still believe that ‘virtual violence’, being the kind that actors or cartoon characters portray in movies, is not as harmful.  After all, it isn’t real, we argue.  But virtual violence can affect children deeply.

David Hill writes that virtual violence is any act of aggression your child might absorb through TV, movies, video games, social media and other digital channels. It includes the simulated violence in blockbuster films and amateur videos and the animated violence in cartoons and interactive games.  It needn’t involve physical harm because aggressive, threatening, racist or hateful statements can be damaging too.  News reports of real-life tragedies also deliver an endless loop of virtual violence.

What children see (or play) influences how they behave

Many years of research prove that virtual violence gives rise to aggressive thoughts, feelings and actions in children. Experts agree that children are deeply influenced by brutality wherever they experience it and whether it is real or simulated.   Through it, children come to believe that aggression is normal and acceptable and this prompts them to act out what they see or hear.  Exposure to violence also affects their mental health and can lead to depression and anxiety.

Practical steps to protect children and teens from the effects of virtual violence

It isn’t possible to shield all children from all forms of virtual violence but there are some steps that you can take to help minimize the harm it can do to their health and well-being.

1. Limit what very young childrenwatch and play. If you have children under age 6, try to exclude violent content. Young children cannot distinguish fantasy from reality. To them, even violence that seems cartoonish to us seems real.

1. Use parental controls and media ratings. Many devices offer you control over what your children may view or play and they can certainly be helpful if you learn how to use them. But no programme can replace your involvement in your children’s choices. Young children should always ask permission before they watch or play video games on any device. Learn more about TV content ratings and movie ratings that can help you choose wisely for your family.
2. Watch or play with your children.  Being involved has tremendous power. Explain that you’re interested in the things they like to watch and play. Sit down with them and gauge the level of virtual violence in their favourite shows, movies, games or apps. You’ll almost certainly be surprised at what you learn!
3. When enjoying entertainment with your child, take time to talk with them about it. Ask how violent scenes made them feel. Show interest in their opinions without arguing with them. You can share your own views without suggesting that any single opinion is totally right or wrong. For example, you might say, “I can understand why that character was angry. But I hate to see people get violent instead of finding other ways to settle their differences.” These conversations can compare what your child is seeing with your family values such as respect, tolerance, kindness and mutual understanding.

A single violent movie or video game will not make a child violent. What matters is the amount and intensity of virtual violence children absorb over time. We can protect our children’s health by monitoring what they watch and play and putting common-sense rules in place, based on their age, temperament, and unique needs.