“I’m Nervous about Kids Watching Horror”

Abstract

Media psychologists have documented negative psychological effects of premature exposure to horror films in children, and many have expressed concerns over children’s viewing of scary films. However, while childhood is a time of fears fantastical and realistic, children are naturally curious about monsters and scary stories, and they are better at distinguishing between fantasy and reality than has been assumed. Moreover, the subgenre of children’s horror films provides appropriate fare for children, and may have positive effects such as teaching children coping strategies and media literacy. In addition, mildly scary media may have an inoculating effect on children, helping them to master their own fear.