The Harms of Watching Horror Movies on Children's Mental Health
By Emma Nelson MS, LPC
Horror movies have long been a popular form of entertainment, captivating audiences with their suspense, gore, and jump scares. While many adults enjoy the thrill of watching these films, the impact of horror movies on children, in particular, can be harmful to their mental health.
1. Increased Anxiety and Fear
Exposure to frightening images and scenarios in horror movies can lead to increased anxiety and fear in children. Young minds may have difficulty distinguishing between fiction and reality, causing them to become fearful of the dark, monsters, or supernatural beings.
2. Nightmares and Sleep Disturbances
Watching horror movies before bedtime can disrupt a child's sleep patterns, leading to nightmares and sleep disturbances. The vivid and terrifying images from the film can linger in their minds, making it challenging for them to relax and fall asleep.
3. Desensitization to Violence
Repeated exposure to violence and graphic content in horror movies can desensitize children to real-life violence. This desensitization can lead to a lack of empathy and an increased tolerance for aggressive behavior, which can have long-term consequences on their mental well-being.
4. Development of Phobias
Children who watch horror movies at a young age may develop phobias related to the themes portrayed in the films. Whether it's a fear of clowns, ghosts, or dark spaces, these phobias can persist into adulthood and impact their daily lives.
5. Behavioral Changes
Exposure to horror movies can trigger behavioral changes in children, such as aggression, withdrawal, or impulsivity. These changes may be a result of the fear and anxiety caused by the content of the films, affecting their interactions with peers and family members.
Best Ways to Monitor and Regulate Content of Movies and TV Shows for Young Children
When it comes to ensuring that young children are watching appropriate content in movies and TV shows, there are several effective methods that parents and caregivers can employ:
Parental Controls: Utilize parental control features on streaming services, cable boxes, and smart TVs to restrict access to age-inappropriate content.
Content Ratings: Familiarize yourself with content ratings such as G, PG, and TV-Y, and use them as a guide to determine if a movie or TV show is suitable for your child.
Watch Together: Watch movies and TV shows with your child to monitor the content and have discussions about any themes or scenes that may be confusing or inappropriate.
Set Time Limits: Limit screen time for young children and prioritize educational and age-appropriate content over shows with questionable themes.
Research Before Watching: Take the time to research movies and TV shows before allowing your child to watch them to ensure they align with your family's values and expectations.
Encourage Critical Thinking: Teach children to think critically about the media they consume and discuss the messages portrayed in movies and TV shows.
Open Communication: Create an open environment where children feel comfortable discussing any content they have seen that made them uncomfortable or confused.
In a nutshell, while horror movies can offer thrills for adults and older teens, it's essential to recognize the potential harm they might cause to a young child's mental well-being. Parents and caregivers play a vital role in monitoring and regulating the media content children consume, ensuring it's age-appropriate and doesn't harm their mental health.