Children learn about the world through a variety of sources, including parents, teachers, friends, and the media. Although news gleaned from television, radio, or the Internet can be a positive educational experience for kids, problems can arise when the images presented are violent or news stories touch on disturbing topics. Reports on subjects such as child abductions, homicides, terrorist activities, school violence, or a politician’s sex life can teach kids to view the world as a confusing, threatening, or unfriendly place.

How can you deal with these disturbing stories and images? Talking to your children about what they watch or hear will help them put frightening information into a more balanced and reasonable context.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 31 Aug 2004
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.