Media usage, media violence and the Nigerian Child

This study examines media usage and the effect of viewing media violence on Nigerian children. Child violence has become massive in recent years. There is also the fear that it will be worse in the future. Many claimed that the rise of child violence emanates from the use of violent media. The objective of this study is therefore to examine the impact of electronic media use on some of the violent acts carried out by some Nigerian children. The study uses sociological and analytical methods. 70 questioners were printed and distributed to parents. 59 questioners came back but 2 were incomplete and were destroyed. 57 were used. The focus of the study is on children between the ages of 0-12. The study area is Sapele Delta State. The study finds that children between the ages of 0-6 love more of educational programs while children between the ages of 7 to 12 prefer films with violent content. Also, viewing violent films makes children develop aggressive and violent behaviour especially fighting and bully towards their friends. It is my recommendation that caregivers give closer attention to their children and reduce their engagement with violent media. This, no doubt, will help to reduce the rate of violent act among Nigerian children in the future.