It’s hard to clearly define the effect media violence has on consumers and young people. This is mainly because terms like “violence” and “aggression” are not easily defined or categorized. To a child, almost any kind of conflict, like the heated arguments of some talk-radio shows or primetime news pundits, can sound as aggressive as two cartoon characters dropping anvils on each other.
Though they are by no means the only factor, media representations of weight and body shape are a major element in body image concerns. Media of all kinds frequently promote weight stigma, most often representing weight as an individual responsibility.[1] Time spent on social media and watching television[2] and exposure to manipulated photos on social media[3] have all been linked to negative body image or increased concern with appearance.
As adults, we want to foster resilience in young people, starting when they’re young. This can be done by teaching them how to handle harassing messages or requests that make them feel uncomfortable – on the internet or in the schoolyard – and, as they get older, by teaching them how to spot and respond to emotional manipulation. The good news is that most teens are effectively handling online requests from strangers – the bigger challenge is helping them handle sexual advances from people they know.
Traditional definitions of literacy have focused on skills relating to reading, writing, numeracy, listening, speaking, and critical thinking, with the end goal being developing active thinkers and learners who are able to engage in society in effective and meaningful ways.[1] These skills – what students need to be able to do – are needed for full participation in digital society as well, but they are only part of a larger set of skills and competencies that are required.
In the Northwest Territories Health Education, media literacy outcomes for are included under the broader categories of Mental and Emotional Well Being; Nutrition; Safety; Responsibilty; Family Life; and Alcohol and Other Drugs.
In the Newfoundland English as a second language curriculum, media literacy outcomes are included under the general outcomes requiring students to:
The Newfoundland family studies curriculum includes expectations that incorporate media education themes. The curriculum document Family Studies: Human Dynamics 2201 (2004) includes a section that demonstrates the complementary relationship between media literacy and family studies:
Many curricular expectations in Alberta Fine Arts courses relate to digital media literacy. The following excerpts from are Fine Arts curriculum document on the LearnAlberta website: