Violent movies, video games boost aggressive behaviour in children: study

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2005

PARIS (AFP) — Violence on TV, home movies and video and computer games has a major short-term effect on young children, boosting the risk of aggressive behaviour or fear, British researchers say.

In a review of the best scientific evidence, they warn that youngsters, especially boys, are at risk from watching unsupervised TV programmes, video movies and games that have violent scenes.

"The availability of video film, satellite and cable TV in the home allows children to access violent media inappropriate to their age, development stage and mental health," they write in next Saturday's issue of The Lancet.

"Parents and caregivers might be recommended to exercise the same care with adult media entertainment as they do with medication and chemicals around the...