Psychology of Childhood and Adolescence in an Urban Context

The existence of childhood has developed, over time in various ways. However, at the present time, are children being exposed to too much too soon? Factors like the media, music, and games and are somewhat corrupting the development of a child. According to the WordNet, the definition of childhood is simply “the state of a child between infancy and adolescence.” When I think of childhood, I think of much more than just a state between infancy and adolescence. I think of innocence and curiosity. To me, it is also the stage in which a person develops personalility, style, and creativity upon the influence they receive from role models, such as parents.

The development of a child is very important, since it determines certain psychological and social behaviors in their future life. What a child is exposed to can determine their outlooks on their self and of society. Children tend to copy what they see and hear, as a process of learning individualism. The role of a parent is crucial to a child, since a parent is the one that can implement rules and regulations. The ability to restrict a child from watching too much television or listening to music that has a negative influence depends on the parent. Some parents are closely observant as to what their child watches and listens to. However, there are those parents that allow their children to watch age inappropriate shows that to some extent effect their development. This is the reason why the media can have a negative effect on children. Children should not be able to watch violent, horror movies or songs that have curse words, at a young age. Too much exposure to “bad media” can lead a child to violent behaviors and the use of inappropriate language. This you tube video is an example of how a child was exposed to too much too soon, for his young age. He is repeating the words of a song that was made for adults to hear.

Games are also affecting the development of children. The use of board games is slowing fading and the popularity of video games through the Internet and game consoles are what’s “in” for today’s younger generation. Violent shooting games and again games that have curse words, are what kids are playing and listening to. This you tube video shows some kids playing an adult video game (Halo 3). The language they use is atrocious and they clearly do not have any adult supervision while playing an adult game.

So, does this concept of “childhood” really still exist? Although some children are being exposed to too much adult content too soon, I believe that yes, childhood still does exist to a certain extent. Parents need to supervise their children and not allow them to engage in games and listen to music that was made for adults. If adult content is repeatedly presented to a child, then the innocence of a child somewhat disappears, and leaves one wondering if the concept of childhood is slowing fading.