Topic 1: Desensitization
Rather than focusing on the common desensitization of violence, I want to focus on how media influences children, especially young girls, who are adopting adult-like behaviors such as wearing makeup and dressing more provocatively at a younger age. Many of them look far older than I did at their age, and it’s heartbreaking because I believe this is part of a deeper desensitization cycle. This shift impacts not only their physical appearance but also, their mental development since they’re exposed to societal pressures at an early age. The internet shows them the “best versions” of people, leading to constant comparisons which can be damaging over time.
Article 1 Summary:
The article revolves around the increasing desensitization to hatred, intolerance, and violence, especially children due to social media being easily accessible nowadays. School shootings might be one of the unfortunate outcomes of this desensitisation culture. Additionally, even though social media is a platform for reconnecting and sharing positive moments, it has transformed into a platform of hate, cyberbullying, and depictions of violence. The author further discusses how society is more likely to share their political, social, beliefs, and religious thoughts on social media without considering the viewpoints of others. Due to these mass outrage of opinions and violent news, children today are exposed to violence as school shooting drills like the ALICE training are a part of their daily school life these days. Students are so desensitized that school shootings no longer surprise or shock them anymore.
Quote: “ “My position is that today’s children, adolescents, and young adults are being exposed to too much violence and negativity to the point where another school shooting simply becomes another school shooting without evoking the emotions we would expect.” “
Topic 2: Parenting Styles
When it comes to parenting, I wonder if there’s a method or formula to raise a “perfect” child. I question whether two families that use the same parenting style will produce children with similar behaviors and values. Some might say that siblings are already raised by the same parents and under the same conditions but isn’t there always a favorite child for each parent? With all the parenting styles taught in AP psych including authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful, I want to dive deeper into how each type produces each product.
Article 2 Summary:
This article highlights the effects of hostile parenting through a study where over 7,500 children in Ireland from 9 months old were observed until they turned 9 years old. Hostile parenting, which involves physical discipline and overcontrol was discovered to have a negative impact on children, increasing the risk of developing mental health issues. Further, it is observed that a warm parenting style did not show any effects while consistent parenting where rules and regulations are often taught showed a positive light.
Quote: “Our findings suggest that hostile parenting should be avoided as much as possible in early childhood if we want to prevent children from developing increased mental health symptoms,” said lead author Dr. Ioannis Katsantonis, a doctoral researcher at the University of Cambridge.”
Topic 3: Cancel Culture
What is the line between holding someone accountable and going too far? As a big user of media, I’ve noticed that the cancel culture has gone out of hand during these years. It seems like public figures and everyday individuals are under constant inspection, with social media calling for accountability in numerous ways that can feel overwhelming. I know that it is necessary to hold accountable for harmful actions, but not to the point where individuals receive death threats or face harassment.
