Preschoolers who watch television violence and play violent video games are more likely to show high levels of aggression and antisocial behavior than those not exposed, according to a new study.

Parents of 79 children ages two to six were asked about their children's behavior. Children who watched television violence and/or played violent video games several times a week or more were classified as "frequently exposed."

The frequently exposed children were 11 times more likely to display behaviors such as being disruptive, fighting with family members, hitting other children, and destroying property. These findings were independent of factors such as age, quality of parent-child interactions, witnessing domestic violence, and involvement with child protection services.

Violent computer games in particular are becoming part of preschoolers' daily lives, and we are concerned that these games are associated with antisocial behavior in young children. The study strongly suggests an association between media violence and young children's antisocial behavior.

The researchers also suggest that parents need to get more involved with their children and their activities, and that parents follow the guidelines recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics: Make sure you know what your child is watching on TV or playing, and limit TV time to one or two hours a day. Parents should also discuss the violence that their children see, and its real-life consequences. Finally, Parents should talk with their children about ways to solve problems without violence.

Combined meeting of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Pediatric Academic Societies, held in Boston in mid-May, 2000