The Effects of Digital Media on Child Development

The Dark Side of the Screen: Claims and Violence

Despite the educational successes, television is often criticized. Common claims suggest that television viewing in infancy delays development, mesmerizes children, causes hyperactivity through overstimulation, and displaces essential activities like homework or sleep.

A more serious concern is the impact of television violence on behavior. Researchers have utilized various methods to study this, such as the study by Boyatzis, Matillo, & Nesbitt (1995), which compared children watching "Power Rangers" to a control group. The results showed that children in the "Power Rangers" condition committed seven aggressive acts for every one act committed by the control group.

Longitudinal research also suggests lasting consequences. Huessman et al. (1984) followed 198 boys from age 8 to age 30. They found that boys who preferred violent television at age 8 were more likely to have committed more serious crimes by age 30.

The consensus on television violence suggests:

1. Imitation: Children are more likely to imitate violence that is realistic, repeated, or unpunished.
2. Vulnerability: Children with existing emotional, behavioral, or impulse control problems may be more easily influenced.

Videogames: Benefits and Behavioral Risks

While television viewing remains relatively stable, videogame use is increasing, particularly among males. For example, in New Zealand, 20% of male secondary students play for more than 3 hours per day, compared to only 5% of females.

However, videogames are not inherently "bad." Research suggests several potential benefits:

• Cognitive & Physical: They may improve fine motor skills, coordination, decision-making, and even brain plasticity.
• Psychological: They can be therapeutic for children with chronic illnesses, provide a distraction from physical or emotional pain, and foster persistence and resilience.
• Social: Certain games can promote prosocial behavior and teamwork.

Despite these benefits, the debate over videogame violence is intense. Anderson & Dill (2000) conducted experiments suggesting a link between videogame use and aggression. In one experiment, university students who played a violent game (Wolfenstein) delivered significantly longer "blasts" in a competitive reaction task than those who played a non-violent game (Myst), even when controlling for gender and personality.

The Verdict: A Nuanced Perspective

The research suggests that the "danger" of videogames may theoretically be greater than that of television because the player is often the active aggressor and is frequently rewarded for aggressive actions. However, it is important to note that many studies on videogame aggression are plagued by methodological issues. When these issues are addressed, the observed effects on aggression tend to be significant but relatively small.

In summary, the impact of digital media depends heavily on content and context:

• Educational content (like Sesame Street) can significantly boost literacy and cognitive skills.
• Violent content (especially if realistic or unpunished) can increase aggressive acts and long-term criminal severity.
• Non-violent videogames can offer cognitive, motor, and therapeutic benefits.
• Prosocial or team-based games are generally considered less problematic and can foster positive social skills.