Does Fantasy in the Media Affect Children in Positive Ways?

Good vs. Evil

Fantasy gives children the opportunity to explore the ideas of both good and evil. Some parents worry that these ideas might be frightening. However, the author G.K. Chesterton points out that children’s’ imaginations are more frightening than any story. “The baby has known the dragon intimately ever since he had an imagination. What the fairy tale provides for him is a St. George to kill the dragon," Chesterton wrote his book "Tremendous Trifles." By allowing the child to explore good and evil in a fantasy setting, she can see how choices affect lives in positive and negative ways.

Heroes

Fantasy books, movies and television shows have some of the highest concentration of heroes. Modern heroes aren’t quite as idealized as they once were. Instead, heroes such as Iron Man and Batman have personal struggles that define them as much as their super abilities. This allows children to see that everyone, even heroes, have the potential for good and evil. Albert Bandura of the American Psychiatric Association says that when people see heroes overcome difficulty, it encourages them to change their own lives.

Altruism

Many children’s shows feature fantasy characters that model altruistic and pro-social behavior. These characters might be ducks or fish, but they show children how to handle problems that children deal daily. Children watch these fantasy characters handle making friends and deal with bullies. Barbara Wilson, head of the Communications Department at the University of Illinois Urbana, notes that repeated exposure to pro-social media affects children’s behavior. For example, children who watched Mr. Roger’s puppets help each other solve problems were more likely to help each other out.

Setting Limits

Like anything else, too much of a good thing is still too much. Whether your child watches altruistic programs or not, limiting media is a good idea. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents ban television viewing for children age 2 and younger. You should limit older children to two hours or less of screen time per day; this includes television, computer and video games. Keep bedrooms media-free zones. Finally, help your child choose his media wisely and watch or play with him.