Toddlers who chill in front of TV are at later risk of being victimized by classmates

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-07/uom-twc071415.php

Public Release: 17-Jul-2015
University of Montreal

For young children, the number of hours spent watching TV at the age of 29 months correlates to the likelihood he'll be bullied in sixth grade, says Linda Pagani of the University of Montreal and its affiliated CHU Sainte-Justine children's hospital. "It is plausible that early lifestyle habits characterized by less effortful interactive experiences, such as early televiewing, can ultimately result in social skill deficits. More time spent watching television leaves less time for family interaction, which remains the primary vehicle for socialization," Professor Pagani explained. "Early television exposure is also linked with developmental deficits associated with brain functions that drive interpersonal problem solving, emotional regulation, socially competent peer play, and positive social contact. Finally, TV viewing may lead to poor eye-contact habits - a cornerstone of friendship and self-affirmation in social interaction."

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