Children Youth and Media
Media play an increasingly important role in the lives of children and adolescents. With the introduction of digital devices such as the smartphone and tablet, media use of children has increased considerably. Also, there are more and more tv programs, games and apps targeted at very young children (Baby TV and baby apps), not to mention the tremendous popularity of social media among teenagers.
Because of the central role media play in children and youths’ lives, it is important to understand what the influence is of media on their development.
This research project primarily focusses on the influence of media on the psychosocial development of children and adolescents (empathy and prosocial behaviour). In addition, the role of media within the family is investigated and how media can influence family dynamics.