Question

Research generally shows that children a. are not at all likely to be aggressive after watching aggression on TV or in movies. b. are likely to be aggressive after watching aggression on TV or in movies. c. are more aggressive after watching aggression in movies only if they are from impoverished backgrounds. d. know the difference between movies and real life and are not influenced by movie or TV violence.

Short answer

Option b is the correct answer.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

The question is asking about the general findings of research regarding children's behavior after watching aggression on TV or in movies.

Analyzing Each Option

We need to carefully consider each of the options provided: - a: Claims children are not likely to be aggressive after watching aggression. - b: Claims children are likely to be aggressive after watching aggression. - c: Claims children are more aggressive only if they are from impoverished backgrounds. - d: Claims children know the difference and are not influenced by violence on screen.

Evaluating Evidence from Research

Research generally suggests that exposure to media violence can increase the likelihood of aggressive behavior in children. Therefore, option b aligns with common research findings, whereas options a and d are less supported. Option c adds specific conditions that are not typically general conclusions from research.

Selecting the Best Answer

Given the analysis and understanding research on the influence of media violence, the most plausible option is b: "children are likely to be aggressive after watching aggression on TV or in movies."

Key concepts

child behavior

Children learn from the world around them through observation and imitation, two important aspects of their development. They observe behaviors in their environment and often imitate what they see. This ability to mimic can influence how they develop social and emotional skills. When children watch aggressive behavior on TV or in movies, they may begin to imitate these actions in real life.

However, not all children who are exposed to media violence will automatically display aggression. A child's reaction can depend on many factors, including their temperament, upbringing, and existing behavior patterns.

Understanding how and why children may mimic aggressive behavior is important for caregivers. By being aware of what children watch, and discussing content that may be inappropriate, adults can guide children in processing what they see in a healthy way.

effects of media on children

The influence of media on children, particularly concerning violence, is a widely studied phenomenon in psychology. Media can impact a child's behavior and worldview in various ways.

• Aggressive Behavior: Exposure to violent media can lead to an increase in aggressive thoughts, emotions, and behaviors among children. It can also desensitize them to violence in real life, making them less responsive to acts of aggression.
• Fear and Anxiety: Constant exposure to violent or aggressive media may lead to increased levels of fear, anxiety, and worry about the world around them.
• Misleading Norms: Children might develop a skewed vision of reality, seeing aggressive behavior as normal or acceptable.

These effects highlight the importance of monitoring media consumption, promoting positive content, and maintaining open communication about what children watch.

psychology research on children

Research in psychology has consistently focused on understanding the influence of different variables on child development. The effects of media violence are a significant area of interest. Studies have shown that children who watch more violent television tend to believe that aggression is an acceptable way to resolve conflicts.

Psychologists use various methods to study these effects, such as longitudinal studies, which follow children over time, to see long-term outcomes of media exposure. They also consider socio-economic factors and family environments to gain a broader understanding of how media affects children differently.

Research also indicates that interventions, like parental guidance and educational programs, can mitigate negative impacts. By promoting awareness and education, researchers aim to equip families and educators with tools to better manage media influences.