The Effects of Violent Movies on Students: Exploring the Impact and Implications

By: Albashir Shehu

Violence in movies has been a prominent aspect of the entertainment industry for decades. As students are exposed to various forms of media, including violent movies, it becomes essential to understand the potential effects they may have on young minds. This article aims to explore the impact of violent movies on students, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects, and discussing the implications for their psychological well-being, behavior, and academic performance.

Desensitization to Violence:

One of the primary concerns associated with exposure to violent movies is desensitization. Continuous exposure to violent content can lead to reduced sensitivity and emotional response towards real-life acts of aggression. Students may become desensitized to violence, making it harder for them to distinguish between fictional scenarios and real-life consequences. This desensitization may potentially contribute to an increased tolerance for violence, leading to aggressive behavior or diminished empathy towards others.

Aggressive Behavior and Imitation:

Studies have indicated a correlation between exposure to violent movies and increased aggressive behavior among students. When repeatedly exposed to violent scenes, students may be more likely to imitate aggressive behavior, whether consciously or subconsciously. This imitation can manifest in various ways, such as verbal aggression, physical aggression, or even bullying. It is important to note that while exposure to violent movies can contribute to aggressive behavior, it is not the sole determinant. Other factors such as family environment, peer influence, and individual predispositions also play significant roles.

Fear and Anxiety:

Exposure to violent movies can evoke fear and anxiety among students, particularly in younger age groups. Scenes of graphic violence, horror, or intense action can trigger feelings of fear, leading to nightmares, sleep disturbances, and heightened anxiety levels. These emotional responses can impact academic performance and overall well-being, hindering a student's ability to concentrate, learn effectively, and maintain a positive mental state.

Distorted Perceptions of Reality:

Violent movies often portray exaggerated and unrealistic scenarios, presenting a distorted perception of reality. Students who frequently watch such movies may develop skewed expectations about violence, it as an acceptable and effective means of resolving conflicts. This distorted perception can lead to misguided beliefs about violence's consequences and appropriate behavioral responses in real-life situations.

Catharsis and Emotional Regulation:

On the other hand, some argue that violent movies provide a cathartic experience for students by allowing them to vicariously release built-up aggression or negative emotions. According to this perspective, engaging with violent content in a controlled and fictional setting may actually help individuals regulate their emotions and reduce the likelihood of aggressive behavior in real life. However, the long-term effects of this cathartic release are still a subject of debate among researchers.

Given the potential impact of violent movies on students, it is crucial to address this issue proactively. Parents, educators, and society as a whole can contribute to creating a healthier media environment for students by:

Encouraging media literacy: Teaching students critical thinking skills to analyze and interpret media content, including violence in movies, can empower them to make informed choices and develop a more balanced perspective.

Promoting alternative forms of entertainment: Encouraging students to engage in activities such as sports, arts, reading, and social interactions can provide healthier alternatives to excessive screen time and reduce exposure to violent movies.

Parental involvement and guidance: Parents should actively monitor their children's media consumption, set appropriate boundaries, and engage in open discussions about the content they encounter. Creating a dialogue around violence in movies can help students develop a better understanding of its implications.

Collaboration with educational institutions: Schools can incorporate media literacy programs into their curricula, educating students about the potential effects.

Albashir Shehu is an HND student, department of Mass Communication, Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi.