Scientific studies have conclusively established that exposure to violence in entertainment media increases aggressive behavior, desensitizes people to violence, and increases the fear of victimization.
One way to counter the effects of media violence is to create partnerships in the community to make parents and the general public aware of the issue and ways they can become involved. The New Hampshire Coalition on Media Violence was founded three years ago to bring together organizations and individuals who are concerned about the issue of media violence and its effects on society. Its collective mission is to educate the public on media violence and ways in which everyone can address this concern. Unlike other state committees on this topic, the coalition has been successful in terms of both the interrelationships of the group itself and its public works. One factor is the inclusion of the media, public health, and education. Since its inception, the Coalition has sponsored an educational campaign entitled, "Seeing Through Media Violence", which was carefully thought out to get adults, children, and adolescents educated and involved in the issue of media violence and media literacy. This campaign has included a well attended conference with a nationally recognized speaker, the development of public service announcements on the issue, the organization of three "Channel to Nonviolence" public awareness campaigns, the maintenance of a conference participant list who receive updates on a bimonthly basis, a poster contest and art exhibit for all New Hampshire school children and a video production contest.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Identify three characteristics for a successful, working coalition on media violence. 2. Articulate the development and implementation of three tools designed to get adults interested and involved in the issue of media violence and media literacy. 3. Articulate the development and implementation of four tools designed to get children and adolescents educated and involved in the issue of media violence and media literacy
Keywords: Children and Adolescents, Media Literacy
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.