Toddlers: excess TV viewing linked to violent behaviour
13 November 2009
Recommendations may be needed to restrict children’s TV viewing, say US experts who have linked aggressive behaviour to higher levels of TV exposure.
A study of 3128 children from 20 US cities has found direct TV exposure and household TV use were significantly associated with childhood aggression. This association remained after controlling for other factors (Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med 2009; 163: 1037-45).
About two-thirds of parents reported their 3-year-old child watched more than 2 hours of TV per day. Children were exposed to an average of 5.2 hours of household TV use per day as well. Aggression was associated using a 15-item tool.
“Heavy household TV use may be an indicator of general attitudes concerning discipline and rules regarding media habits and child rearing in general,” the authors said.
Last Reviewed: 13 November 2009
- 1. Manganello JA, Taylor CA. Television exposure as a risk factor for aggressive behavior among 3-year-old children. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med 2009; 163(11): 1037-45
