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As children’s screen time continues to climb, so does their exposure to age-inappropriate content, including R-rated movies and violent video games. A recent study published in BMC Pediatrics emphasizes the critical role parents play in shaping their children’s media consumption, highlighting that the habits and rules set by parents directly affect their preteens’ engagement with mature content.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, reveals that parents’ own screen habits have a significant impact on how much mature media children consume. For instance, when parents use screens in front of their children or allow screen time during meals or bedtime, preteens are more likely to engage with R-rated movies and violent video games.
“Bedroom screen use emerged as the strongest predictor of mature media consumption,” says Dr. Jason M. Nagata, lead author of the study and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at UCSF. “Unrestricted access to screens, particularly in the privacy of a child’s bedroom, opens the door to unchecked exposure to content that may not be age-appropriate.”
Interestingly, the study also found that proactive parental monitoring and setting clear media rules were associated with lower levels of exposure to mature content. For example, using screen time as a reward was linked to less consumption of mature media, while taking screens away as a punishment led to increased exposure. These findings suggest that how parents regulate screen time is just as important as the amount of screen time allowed.
“Our findings reinforce the importance of setting clear, consistent rules around media use,” says Dr. Nagata. “The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends creating a family media plan to set limits and encourage screen-free time, especially during meals and at bedtime.”
The study analyzed data from 10,054 children, ages 12-13, as part of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, the largest long-term study of brain development in the United States. A related ABCD study recently revealed that nearly two-thirds of preteens have underage social media accounts, despite most platforms requiring users to be at least 13.
The authors of the study note that R-rated movie and video game consumption by teens is linked to poor academic performance, mental health struggles, substance use, and behavioral issues. “Parents play a critical role in influencing children’s screen use patterns,” said Dr. Kyle T. Ganson, co-author of the study and assistant professor at the University of Toronto. “We hope our findings empower parents to take actionable steps to foster healthier screen use habits.”
The study also suggests that parents can have a positive impact on their children’s media consumption by setting a good example themselves. “Children often model their screen habits after their parents, so setting a positive example can make a big difference,” Dr. Nagata explains.
As screen time continues to rise, the study serves as a reminder of the significant influence parents have in shaping their children’s media consumption habits. By being mindful of their own screen use and setting clear, consistent rules, parents can help reduce their children’s exposure to inappropriate content.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on research findings and are intended to inform readers. Parents are encouraged to review the full study and consult with pediatric professionals when creating media plans for their families.
