The Influence of Violent Content on Children: A Case of the General Aggression Model – Dr. Haritha S

19th December 2024

Background: The General Aggression Model (GAM) was proposed by Craig Anderson and Brad Bushman in 2002. It was developed to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding how exposure to aggressive stimuli influences aggressive behavior over time. The model combines earlier theories of aggression, such as social learning theory and cognitive neoassociation theory, to explain both short-term and long-term effects of violent media and other situational factors on aggression.

The GAM explains how exposure to aggressive stimuli can influence an individual’s behavior. It posits that repeated exposure to violent content can prime aggressive thoughts, emotions, and behavior, especially in impressionable minds like children. The model identifies several variables that interact to influence aggressive behavior:

1. Inputs – Personal and situational factors (e.g., Rahul’s exposure to violent content, parental absence).
2. Routes – Internal processes such as cognition (aggressive thoughts), affect (hostile emotions), and arousal (increased physiological activation).
3. Outcomes – The resultant behavior, which may manifest as aggression or conflict resolution.

The Case: Rahul, a 10-year-old boy, spent most of his time watching television. With both his parents working demanding jobs, they entrusted his care to a nanny. The nanny, though attentive, often allowed Rahul to spend hours watching his favorite violent content to keep him entertained. This included cartoons, such as Pokémon and Naruto, and other OTT content like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan, filled with aggressive characters who resolved conflicts using force, verbal abuse, and other hostile behaviors.

Over time, Rahul started to mimic what he saw on screen. He began showing signs of aggression toward his younger siblings, often hitting them or using harsh language when he was upset. He even began shouting at his parents when they returned home, imitating the tone and words he observed in the violent content. Initially, his parents dismissed it as a phase. However, as Rahul’s aggressive behavior worsened, they realized something was wrong.

Realization and Action: Upon discussing the issue and reflecting on Rahul’s daily activities, the parents realized that the prolonged exposure to violent media, coupled with their absence, had shaped his behavior. They felt guilty for not being more involved in his upbringing. Understanding the impact of aggressive content through the lens of the General Aggression Model, they decided to take corrective action. They began limiting Rahul’s screen time, replacing violent content with educational and positive programming. More importantly, they adjusted their schedules to spend more quality time with Rahul, engaging him in activities like reading, playing sports, and having family discussions.

Outcome: With consistent attention, emotional regulation techniques, and positive reinforcement, Rahul’s aggressive tendencies started to diminish. His relationship with his siblings improved, and he became more open and communicative with his parents. This case highlights the importance of parental involvement in shaping a child’s behavior and the need to monitor the media content children consume.

The Role of Emotional Regulation in Reducing Aggression: Emotional regulation plays a crucial role in controlling aggressive behaviors. Emotional regulation involves recognizing emotions, understanding their triggers, and using appropriate strategies to manage them effectively. For children like Rahul, teaching emotional regulation can help reduce the impact of aggressive stimuli.

1. Mindfulness Techniques: Simple mindfulness exercises can help children become aware of their emotions and stay calm in stressful situations.
2. Cognitive Reframing: Helping children reframe aggressive thoughts into more positive or neutral ones can reduce hostile emotions.
3. Parental Coaching: Parents can encourage Rahul to express his frustrations using words rather than physical actions and teach conflict resolution strategies.

By integrating these techniques, parents can equip children with tools to handle aggressive impulses and improve their emotional intelligence.

The Need for Media Regulation: While emotional regulation is critical, it must be complemented with stricter media regulation. Media platforms today, including television and OTT content providers, offer an extensive range of programs, many of which are violent and inappropriate for children. Without proper regulation, such content can shape young minds negatively, as seen in Rahul’s case.

1. Content Ratings and Parental Controls: Platforms should enforce stricter content ratings and provide accessible parental control options to ensure children only access age-appropriate programs.
2. Media Literacy Programs: Schools and communities can educate parents and children about the harmful effects of violent media and the importance of balanced screen time.
3. Government Policies: Policymakers should emphasize regulations that hold media platforms accountable for publishing violent content accessible to children.

Organizations Regulating Media in India: In India, several organizations play a role in regulating media content to ensure appropriate standards and guidelines are maintained:

1. Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC): The CBFC is responsible for certifying films and ensuring content meets appropriate age classifications.
2. Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC): This body regulates content on television channels, addressing complaints related to offensive or inappropriate programming.
3. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB): The MIB oversees media platforms, policies, and content guidelines across the country, including OTT platforms and broadcast media.
4. Digital Media Ethics Code under IT Rules, 2021: These rules govern OTT platforms, requiring them to implement a three-tier regulatory framework to monitor and manage content.
5. Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI): The ASCI monitors advertisements to prevent the portrayal of harmful or inappropriate content targeting children.

Conclusion: The General Aggression Model illustrates how repeated exposure to violent stimuli can influence thoughts and behaviors, particularly in children. Parental awareness, emotional regulation, and reduced exposure to aggressive content can mitigate these effects and foster healthier emotional development in children. Additionally, stricter media regulation and literacy initiatives are essential to protect young minds from the adverse effects of violent programming.

Questions for Discussion:

1. How do the inputs (personal and situational factors) in the General Aggression Model contribute to Rahul’s aggressive behavior?
2. What role do the routes (cognition, affect, and arousal) play in transforming Rahul’s exposure to violent content into aggressive actions?
3. How can parents and caregivers intervene to modify the outcomes of aggressive behavior as suggested by the General Aggression Model?
4. What steps can policymakers, media platforms, and parents take to regulate violent media content and limit its harmful impact on children?
5. How effective are the current media regulation organizations in India, and what improvements can be made to better protect children from violent content?