From graphic videos in the news to cyberbullying and online hate in popular internet spaces for kids and teens, young people are exposed to more disturbing content and experiences online than ever before. Research suggests this exposure may be linked to increased aggressive behavior – both online and offline. When does exposure to violent or toxic online content start to negatively impact children’s mental health and behavior, and what should parents and caregivers do about it?
Children and Screens held the #AskTheExperts webinar, “Violent Media, Toxic Online Spaces, and Youth Aggression,” on Wednesday, April 30 at 12pm ET. Leading experts in media, child development, and online behavior examined what we know — and what we still need to understand – about the connection between digital media exposure and youth aggression. Panelists explored how and where children encounter harmful content, what the research says about impacts on youth development, and what parents and caregivers can do to protect and empower their kids in today’s digital landscape.
Speakers
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Michael Rich, MD, MPH
Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School; Director, Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s HospitalModerator
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Stephanie Fredrick, PhD, NCSP
Associate Director, Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention, University at Buffalo, SUNY
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Brad J. Bushman, PhD
Professor of Communication, The Ohio State University
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Jun Sung Hong, PhD
Associate Professor, School of Social Work, Wayne State University; Visiting Professor, Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, South Korea
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Rob Eschmann, PhD
Associate Professor, School of Social Work, Columbia University; Faculty Associate, Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society, Harvard University
A full recording and transcript for this webinar will be made available soon.
Violent Media, Toxic Online Spaces, and Youth Aggression
When does exposure to violent or toxic online content start to negatively impact young people's behavior, and what should parents and caregivers do about it?
Suicide, Self-Harm, and Digital Media Use
A quick-read research summary for parents, caregivers, and professionals.
Cyberbullying and Digital Cruelty: Summary and Recommendations
Summary and Recommendations found in the "Handbook of Children and Screens: Digital Media, Development, and Well-Being from Birth Through Adolescence," Part Two: Research on How Media Influence Relationships, Family, Culture, and Society, Cyberbullying and Digital Cruelty Section (pages 427-463)
Umbrella review of meta-analyses on the risk factors, protective factors, consequences and interventions of cyberbullying victimization
Factors contributing to the defending behavior of adolescent cyberbystanders: A systematic review and meta-analysis