Assessment of Aggressive Behavior in Children Due To Viewing Violent Cartoons in Selected Schools of Karachi

Abstract

Background: Watching cartoons is a common leisure activity among children. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact of exposure to violent cartoon content on aggressive behavior. This study aimed to assess aggression among school-going children aged 5–10 years in relation to exposure to violent cartoons in selected schools in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in selected private schools in Karachi. A total of 340 children were included. Data were collected through parents using the Buss–Perry Aggression Scale to assess children’s aggression levels. Sociodemographic characteristics and cartoon-viewing behaviors were also recorded.

Results: Most participants (96.2%, n = 335) reported watching cartoons, with 56.9% (n = 198) belonging to nuclear families. A majority (79.3%, n = 276) watched cartoons while eating. Boys demonstrated significantly higher aggression levels than girls (p = 0.024). Increased aggression was significantly associated with mimicking cartoon characters (p < 0.001), watching cartoons on YouTube (p = 0.002), living in joint families (p = 0.011), and screen time exceeding six hours per day (p = 0.033). Parental characteristics showed that 40.8% of mothers had secondary education, 46.8% of fathers were privately employed, and most mothers were homemakers.

Conclusion: No direct association was found between cartoon viewing and aggression. However, specific behaviors such as mimicking cartoon characters and excessive screen time were significantly associated with higher aggression levels. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring children’s media consumption and behavioral responses.