Media Intervention for Young Children During Mass Trauma Experiences: Promoting Theory of Mind and Resilience

Abstract

Young children are particularly vulnerable in times of war and conflict, but they often emerge as resilient agents of change, promoting social justice and community rebuilding post-conflict. The likelihood of this type of trauma response, however, is largely dependent upon the tactical interventions offered to them during the trauma experience. News media portrayals of war and conflict can serve to heighten negative effects for children living in conflict zones, but entertainment and curriculum-based media can be used strategically to mitigate or moderate those effects.

Citation

Ryan, E.L. (2024), "Media Intervention for Young Children During Mass Trauma Experiences: Promoting Theory of Mind and Resilience", Shah, T.M. (Ed.) Children and Youth in Armed Conflict: Responses, Resistance, and Portrayal in Media (Sociological Studies of Children and Youth, Vol. 35), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 83-99. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1537-466120240000035006