Written by Aralia Blackman

Perspective: If we assume that the ages that are most vulnerable to negative emotions are girls 10 – 14 and boys 12 – 16, how does social media/gaming as well as violent music hamper their development?

Introduction

Adolescence is a crucial period for emotional and psychological development. It is during this time that young people form their identities, develop emotional resilience, and learn to navigate social relationships. Assuming that girls aged 10-14 and boys aged 12-16 are particularly vulnerable to negative emotions due to hormonal changes, peer pressure, and self-esteem fluctuations. The rise of digital technology, including social media, gaming, and music streaming, has introduced new challenges that impact adolescent mental health. This article explores how these forms of media contribute to increased anxiety and depression, reduced emotional regulation, impaired social skills, heightened aggression, and declining cognitive development, while also discussing potential solutions to mitigate these negative effects.

1. Increased Anxiety and Depression

Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat play a significant role in shaping self-perception. Young girls, in particular, are exposed to unrealistic beauty standards through edited photos and influencer culture, leading to body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. The constant comparison to peers and celebrities fosters feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. Additionally, cyberbullying is a widespread problem, with many adolescents experiencing harassment, exclusion, or negative comments, further increasing stress and depressive symptoms.

Excessive gaming, particularly among boys, has been linked to social withdrawal and increased irritability. Many adolescents spend hours playing multiplayer online games, prioritizing virtual interactions over real-life relationships. This can lead to gaming addiction, decreased motivation for schoolwork, and difficulty managing real-world stressors. Some studies also suggest that prolonged exposure to violent video games may increase aggressive thoughts and behaviors, contributing to emotional instability.

Music, particularly violent or explicit genres such as rap and heavy metal, can also influence adolescent emotions. Lyrics that glorify aggression, substance abuse, or toxic relationships can normalize destructive behavior and reinforce negative emotions. Studies have found that exposure to violent music lyrics can heighten aggressive thoughts and desensitize listeners to real-world violence.

Solution: Media literacy education can help adolescents critically analyze the content they consume and develop resilience against harmful influences. Schools should incorporate lessons on identifying unrealistic portrayals in social media and understanding the effects of violent content. Parents can also encourage open discussions about online experiences to help their children navigate digital spaces more safely.

2. Reduced Emotional Regulation

The digital world often presents a distorted version of reality, making it harder for young people to develop healthy emotional regulation skills. Constant exposure to carefully curated online personas can lead to unrealistic expectations about life and relationships. Many teens struggle with processing disappointment or failure because they are conditioned to see only success and perfection on social media.

Gaming, particularly competitive or violent games, can contribute to impulsive behavior. The adrenaline rush from high-stakes gameplay often results in frustration, anger, or hostility when things do not go as expected. This can translate into real-world emotional outbursts and difficulty managing stress in everyday situations.

Music can also shape emotional responses. Aggressive lyrics or themes of hopelessness and self-destruction may reinforce feelings of anger or sadness in vulnerable teens. For example, research has shown that repeated exposure to music that emphasizes revenge or retaliation can make listeners more likely to adopt hostile worldviews.

Solution: Parental involvement plays a key role in helping adolescents develop emotional regulation. Parents can guide children in managing their screen time, discussing the emotional impact of media, and modeling healthy emotional expression. Encouraging teens to engage in mindfulness exercises and offline activities such as sports, art, and reading can also support emotional stability.

3. Hindered Social Skills and Communication

The rise of digital communication has altered the way adolescents interact with others. Heavy social media and gaming use often replace face-to-face interactions, making it harder for teens to develop strong interpersonal skills. Many young people struggle with in-person conversations, emotional expression, and conflict resolution due to their reliance on texting and online messaging.

In gaming communities, social interactions are often centered on competition rather than collaboration, which can lead to difficulties in real-world teamwork. Online anonymity can also encourage toxic behavior, reducing empathy and reinforcing aggressive communication styles.

Violent music lyrics, particularly those that normalize disrespect or hostility, can shape attitudes toward relationships. Teens who frequently listen to songs that degrade others or promote dominance may struggle to form healthy, respectful connections with peers, romantic partners, or authority figures.

Solution: Schools and families can promote in-person social interactions through group activities, team sports, and community service programs. Encouraging adolescents to participate in extracurricular activities that involve collaboration can strengthen their interpersonal skills. Additionally, limiting online interactions and fostering open discussions about respectful communication can improve social development.

4. Increased Aggression and Desensitization

Exposure to aggressive content in social media, gaming, and music can desensitize young minds to violence. Many online platforms, such as Twitter and Reddit, feature viral content that includes fights, pranks, or bullying, normalizing harmful behavior. When adolescents frequently witness or engage in these toxic online environments, they may become less sensitive to the consequences of aggression.

Violent video games have been shown to increase aggressive tendencies in some individuals. A meta-analysis found that players who frequently engage in violent gaming scenarios exhibit heightened aggressive cognition and reduced empathy toward others.

Similarly, repeated exposure to music with violent themes can alter perceptions of aggression. Studies have indicated that teens who listen to music with hostile lyrics are more likely to justify aggression in real-life situations, seeing it as a normal or necessary response to conflict.

Solution: Implementing stricter regulations on violent content and promoting digital well- being programs can help address aggression and desensitization. Social media platforms and gaming developers can introduce content filters and parental controls to limit exposure to violent material. Schools can also incorporate media literacy programs to help students critically evaluate aggressive content and its potential impact on behavior.

5. Impaired Cognitive Development and Academic Performance

Excessive engagement with social media and gaming can negatively affect cognitive development and academic performance. Screen addiction often leads to sleep deprivation, as many teens stay up late scrolling through social media or playing video games. Sleep deprivation is linked to reduced concentration, memory impairment, and lower academic achievement.

Additionally, the rapid, fast-paced nature of digital content consumption shortens attention spans. Many adolescents struggle to focus on tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as reading or problem-solving, because they are accustomed to instant gratification from short-form content like TikTok videos or fast-paced gaming sequences.

Certain music genres, particularly those emphasizing materialism, rebellion, or substance abuse, can also impact academic motivation. Teens who strongly identify with music that glorifies skipping school or engaging in reckless behavior may be less inclined to prioritize their education.

Solution: Schools and parents can encourage balanced screen time and promote a structured daily routine that includes sufficient sleep, academic focus, and recreational activities. Educators can also introduce interactive and engaging learning methods to capture students’ attention and minimize distractions caused by digital media. Encouraging music consumption that inspires creativity and motivation rather than negativity can further enhance cognitive development.

By implementing these solutions, society can better support adolescents in developing healthier emotional regulation, improved social skills, and a more balanced relationship with digital media.

Conclusion

Adolescents, particularly girls aged 10–14 and boys aged 12–16, are at a critical stage of emotional and psychological development. During this period, they are highly susceptible to negative emotions due to hormonal changes, social pressures, and evolving self-identity. Social media, gaming, and violent music significantly hamper their development by intensifying these vulnerabilities.

Social media exposes young girls to unrealistic beauty standards and constant peer comparison, leading to heightened anxiety, low self-esteem, and even depression. The pressure to conform to curated online personas fosters insecurities and a distorted sense of self-worth. Similarly, boys immersed in gaming, especially violent or competitive games, are prone to social withdrawal, irritability, and impulsive behavior, which can hinder their ability to regulate emotions and manage real-world challenges.

Violent music, whether through aggressive lyrics or themes of rebellion and hostility, normalizes destructive behavior and reinforces negative emotional states. This can shape adolescents’ worldviews, making them more prone to adopting hostile attitudes or justifying aggression. Moreover, the habitual consumption of such content can desensitize them to violence and impair their social skills, as they struggle to build empathy and maintain healthy interpersonal relationships.

As a result, these digital influences can severely disrupt the development of emotional regulation, social competence, and cognitive growth. Addressing this issue requires a balanced approach that includes media literacy education, parental guidance, and the promotion of positive media engagement to support healthy emotional and social development.

References

 Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2018). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents. Preventive Medicine Reports.

 Anderson, C. A., Carnagey, N. L., & Eubanks, J. (2003). Exposure to violent media: The effects of songs with violent lyrics on aggressive thoughts and feelings. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.

 Anderson, C. A., & Bushman, B. J. (2001). Effects of violent video games on aggressive behavior, aggressive cognition, aggressive affect, physiological arousal, and prosocial behavior: A meta-analytic review. Psychological Science.

 Abad-Santos, A. (2023, March 14). What are kids watching on tablets? Parents. Retrieved from https://www.parents.com/what-are-kids-watching-on-tablets- 11689876

 Carlisle, M. (2023, April 5). American Psychological Association releases teen video viewing guidance. TIME. Retrieved from https://time.com/7177874/teen-video- viewing-guidance-apa/

By Tonia Gooding. President of Communities Alive.

6 January 2025. (Originally published in the Trinidad Guardian)

It is with a heavy heart that one of the first articles I read in the newspaper for the new year of 2025 was suggesting that the solution to violent crime was increased abortion.

Firstly, using only one research study that focused on one possible reason for such a pervasive problem worldwide seems a bit narrow from a scientific perspective. Most research studies will highlight many different possibilities and then governments should then prioritize how to address these issues.

Secondly, it seems almost ironical to say that violence from the womb, can be the solution to violent practices in society. Or even an interpretation that a friend gave me, the author is saying – it is better that these people committing the violent crimes, would never have been born – to me, that is quite a tragic perspective of the value of a human life.

Every human life matters, from the womb to the tomb, saving life means saving ALL lives.

If we are looking to address situations, especially with regard to our State of Emergency, perhaps we should look at solutions that has the focus on regarding the dignity of every human being. One such solution that my organization came across is called Project Alcatraz that originated in Venezuela https://fundacionsantateresa.org/en/proyecto-alcatraz/ This program was started by Alberto Vollmer, primarily targeted at gang members.

In many cases young men join gangs to get the appreciation, security and validation that they may be lacking from their own environment. The program uses the concept of Restorative Justice, coupled with the playing of rugby and education in values to reintegrate into society, in addition to preventive methods related to the playing of sport to create healthy habits and build a positive sense of belonging to a team.

Quoting the mother of the founder “This gang thing is directly connected to abandonment by the fathers. They need purpose and belonging and those are supplied by the father…..or the gang leader. I talk to these young men a lot, and so many have said to me “I have no father…..Alberto is my father, really”…., Alberto gives them the RULES, CORRECTION, expect the best of them, and assure dependable LOVE, no matter what. And so they see him as a father. Amazing.”

Just as there may be many reasons for violent crime, there may be many possible solutions. We have suggested one possibility here which addresses a key problem all over the world – absent fathers. Perhaps the author of the previous article, if he probed a bit further may have asked the right question – the unfortunate women who end up in situations that the thought of abortion may arise, in many cases think they have no option, and feel all alone and unsupported, in these cases – where are the responsible men?

By Tonia Gooding. President of Communities Alive.

27 December 2024

As the New Year approaches, I think it is only right to look at the previous year and learn from it. This year, I was introduced to the very damaging, divisive narrative called privilege. “Pretty privilege, rich privilege, white privilege”, etc, are words I heard, especially from the younger generation. While I understood the perspective that the concept came from, I refused to buy into or to use the narrative.

Privilege is defined as a special right, advantage or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group. While this concept has always existed, previous generations chose not to define people by the different circumstances to which they may have been born into (not through personal choice) but rather choose narratives that focus on the dignity and potential that each of us innately has. There is a reason for that.

I remember being told (I believe by my mother) there will always be persons prettier, smarter and stronger (physical attributes) than yourself—as well as those less so: do not let that prevent you from seeing the value and gifts that you have been bestowed with. Each person has a unique combination of gifts and talents, and it’s up to everyone to discover their potential and live it out. That’s our privilege!

I have also learnt through life lessons and personal associations that financial circumstances do not determine a person’s value, and the equation of wealth=happiness does not exist.

Unhealthy comparisons just lead to jealousy and envy, two vices that do much more harm to self than the other. The existing privilege narrative is both divisive and detrimental to building up a person’s sense of significance and security. We should recognise it as such.

The same person whose “privilege” seemed to open doors that were closed to us may have challenges that we may never have to encounter. That is life. Each person has both strengths and weaknesses. We are called to discover our strengths and use them for the benefit of others, while being grateful for them. At the same time, we need to work on our weaknesses for our own benefit and appreciate the ability to grow from challenges we encounter in our own lives.

As saying goes, “To whom much is given much is expected”; this is the concept that perhaps we should have about the concept of privilege. Those who have favourable circumstances and talents in certain aspects should feel the need to use them for the bene­fit of those who are not as fortunate in these areas.

If we all understand that each of us has been given different gifts, talents and circumstances that can be viewed as privileges (both tangible and intan­gible), then perhaps the next time this word is used to create animosity, we can pause and reflect: “what is my ‘privilege’ and how am I using it to benefit others?” You may be surprised at your response.

Communities Alive will host the launch of a book on a new approach to character building by Fr. Mark Georges that was published in June. The book is entitled: Anthropology of Integration – a handbook for teachers, parents and educators.

The book is fruit of research and consultation with experts, in particular, the founder of Alive to the World, Christine de Marcellus Vollmer.

The launch will take place on 9 November from 4:30pm to 6:00pm. Please contact us if you would like to attend.

The video below is a brief introduction to the work.

Have you ever been a part of a super high – performing team? It can be such a deeply satisfying experience when you get to work with people whose personalities, dedication to a common goal, and individual  talents merge in  a way that seems like they were made for each other. Even though this will not always be the case as not everyone is compatible, having a common goal can overcome this barrier.  If you’ve experienced that kind of  inspirational team spirit at work or with an actual sports team you know it doesn’t happen by accident. High performing teams rather than talented individuals carrying the load for everyone else’s benefit are created and nurtured by capable leaders. These leaders know how to create an environment where each individual member has the opportunity to thrive.x

Many of us have  also experienced the exact opposite association of teamwork. It all starts with those ill-fated group projects in school where one person did all the work, the  rest of the group shared equal credit and it never really changed for any group project thereon or where there are parents often who feel like martyrs destined to sacrifice everything that makes them feel good and strong and valuable as  an individual for the sake of their occasionally grateful family.

Do you have a Family? Surprise , you  have a family team!  Maybe you don’t act like it yet. However it is completely possible for all of you to work together as an  

organized unit. . You will be working on a group project that will last at least 18 years. Isn’t it worth your time  to learn how to be a capable leader of your family team and share the load.

A family is not just a group of individuals living together under one roof  or a group that is related by blood or name; it is a cohesive unit that thrives on teamwork and a bond. No matter the make up of a family, a family is a team .  Just like a sports team, everyone has their function  for the team.  In the sports team even if one player might seem more important, missing that player or the role they play would hinder the function of the team.  It can also be viewed that each person in a family has a unique role in the structure and function of the family. The individual strengths, traits and personality of each member of the family all contribute to part of the family team.

The concept of family as a team is crucial for several reasons, each contributing to the overall well-being and peace within the household. The concept of teams speaks to a universal human need to be part of something meaningful. Adults and children alike would like to be in a group or a cause larger than themselves. Highlighting a child’s important role in a team helps them feel a part of the group and helps build relationships with the other members of the team.

Just like a team in sports or at work with shared goals,  viewing your family as a team can help reinforce the idea that you are all working together towards a shared vision such as knowing what the goal of the family team is and how you  are going to work on maintaining a functioning team.  Other shared goals and values the family want to achieve and uphold, could be simple as maintaining a happy and healthy household, or a specific as saving up for a family vacation. Working together towards these goals strengthens family bonds and creates a sense of purpose and accomplishment. 

In teams after a game or project is done, there are  usually discussions on the results . Just the same open communication will be needed among family members. where it allows opinions, needs , mistakes and successes all to be shared without fear of judgment, punishment or any negative response. This helps in understanding each other’s needs, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive atmosphere at home. 

Families are meant to be a source of support and  encouragement.  Just as teammates support each other during challenges, families provide a crucial support system for each member. Calling your family a team can underscore the importance of providing encouragement, empathy and assistance to one another during good times and difficult times. Referring to your family as a team can also  foster a sense of unity and togetherness. It emphasizes the idea that you all are  in this together, facing life’s challenges as a cohesive unit. This strengthens bonds between family members and promotes a sense of belonging and mutual support.

Just like in any team, there is always an adult in charge . The coach sets the rules and  decides who has which task . In a team tasks are often divided based on individual strength and skills. Similarly within a family different members have different strengths  and therefore different responsibilities. By thinking of your family as a team you can  better appreciate and leverage each person’ s unique abilities to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. Teamwork can be exhibited within a family through the division and completion of household chores. Parents may assign age- appropriate tasks to their children, such as setting the table, taking the garbage out or folding laundry. By working together family members can complete chores more efficiently and ensure that everyone contributes to maintaining a clean  and organized home.  Dividing responsibilities  can also include: childcare, financial management, and more.

Teams rely on collaboration to succeed and families will be no different. Each member of a family plays a unique role and contributes in their own way to the overall well – being of the family unit. By recognising and appreciating each other’s contribution you can foster a sense of teamwork and unity. Collaborating within a family teaches important life skills such as cooperation, negotiation, compromise, and problem-solving. These skills are valuable for personal growth and for building relationships outside the family. Families face various challenges over time. By working together as a team, they can adapt to changes, overcome obstacles, and grow stronger as a unit. 

A team  spends a lot of time working together and practicing. Likewise, we need to find ways for our family team to spend time together whether it’s game nights or movies or family dinners. The more time we spend on common goals, the stronger our relationships will be.

Teams celebrate their victories.   The most important principle we can learn from teamwork is that everyone wins together.  When one team member succeeds, we all win and we need to celebrate together. But just as  different people on a team have different strengths we need to help our children find their own avenues to succeed. Whatever the avenues are, we have to recognize them and make sure that the entire family joins in the celebration.  Families therefore will celebrate accomplishments, milestones and special moments together. Recognising and acknowledging these moments can help strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. It is  therefore seen where teamwork in a family promotes a harmonious environment where each member feels valued, supported, and connected, contributing to overall well-being and happiness.

Why are these qualities of teamwork important to families? Sure it is easy to work as a team when things are going well but when families face times of stress or crisis, teamwork is especially important. Working together  as a team  strengthens the family bond. It creates a sense of belonging especially when it supports the family shared goals.Family  teams form the first interactions for children. The skills learned in the family team setting will help to lead success in the future in areas of  sports school and career.  Take time to think about your family team. How is your family team functioning? The good news is, it’s never too early to start implementing the family team concept. By emphasizing teamwork and its significance from an early age, children not only develop essential life skills but also form deep lasting connections with their parents and siblings, laying the foundation for healthy relationships throughout their lives.  It’s never too late​ either to turn things around if you’re  headed in the wrong direction. Now is the time to try,  take some time to develop and establish a winning family team.

-References: –

Raising Children as a team: why is it important.

building a strong family team: 3 fundamental techniques

Creating a winning family team

Why is it important to build a family team

why would you call your family a team?.

Gillian Rivas. Petit Valley Girls

As the summer vacation is upon us, it is a good time for parents to think about the amount of time that their children can potentially spend with their gadgets if they are not helped to make good use of time. There are risks for their development that should not be underestimated. We share a response of one of our champions to a question on the topic.

Question: If we assume that the ages that are most vulnerable to negative emotions for girls are 10-14 and for boys 12-16, how does social media/gaming, as well as the music that is popular among them help or hamper their development?

The use of social media and gaming among children and teenagers has been a topic of debate in recent years.  Many experts and parents believe that excessive use of these platforms can have negative impacts on the development of young individuals, especially those in the vulnerable age groups of 10-14 for girls and 12-16 for boys.  However, there are also arguments that social media and gaming can have some positive effects on their development.

One of the ways in which social media and gaming can hamper the development of children in these age groups is by exposing them to inappropriate content and online predators.  Young individuals may be exposed to cyberbullying, violence, and sexual content that can negatively impact their mental health and self-esteem.  

Moreover, spending too much time on screens can lead to a lack of face-to-face social interactions, which are essential for developing interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.  It may also contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as young individuals may prioritize online relationships over real-life connections.

On the other hand, there are some ways in which social media and gaming can actually help in the development of children and teenagers in these vulnerable age groups.  For example, social media can provide a platform for young individuals to express themselves creatively and connect with like-minded individuals.  It can also be a source of information and education, as young individuals can learn about new topics and engage in discussions with others from around the world.

Furthermore, social media and gaming platforms can provide a sense of connection and community for young people, allowing them to interact with others and express themselves creatively.  It can also offer educational benefits, such as improving cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities.  

In terms of music, popular genres among young people can include pop, hip-hop, rap, and electronic dance music (EDM).  The impact of music on individuals can vary, with some studies suggesting that certain genres may influence mood, behaviour, and attitudes.   It is important for parents and guardians to be aware of the content of the music their children are exposed to and to engage in open discussions about its potential impact.  Listening to violent music can desensitize children to violence and aggression, potentially leading to an increase in aggressive behaviour and a decrease in empathy.   It can also perpetuate negative stereotypes and harmful attitudes towards others.

As a parent of a primary school child, it is important to recognize and understand the vulnerability to negative emotions that children may experience during this stage of development.  It is crucial to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for your child to help them navigate these emotions and build resilience. 

One recommendation is to regularly check in with your child and open up lines of communication to create a safe space for them to express their feelings. Encourage them to talk about their emotions and validate their experiences, showing empathy and understanding.

In conclusion, the use of social media and gaming among children and teenagers in the vulnerable age groups of 10-14 for girls and 12-16 for boys can have both positive and negative impacts on their development.  It is important for parents and guardians to monitor and regulate their screen time and to have open discussions about the potential risks and benefits of these platforms.  By striking a balance and encouraging responsible use, social media and gaming can be valuable tools in the development of young individuals.  Encouraging a healthy balance of online and offline activities, as well as promoting open communication and critical thinking skills, can help mitigate the negative effects and promote positive development. 

Akeema Boatswain. San Souci R.C.

Communities Alive volunteers at St Joseph Convent having been working with form one students during the academic year using the Alive to the World book Friends. Students were invited to prepare artwork to show ideas that impacted on them and which they wanted to share. Here is a selection:

The objective of the exercise was to have them demonstrate their understanding of the ideas in the lessons, teamwork as well application of the concepts. I was pleasantly surprised by their retention  but more importantly  their ability to apply and demonstrate what they learnt and understood. I was amused to hear them reminding each other of the correct behaviours during the exercise. This is in spite of the challenges and the repetitive reading of the first four chapters that I was able to complete.

On Saturday 1st. and Saturday 8th. June the first session of Teacher/Champions for 19 schools took place for the Alive to the World program. The Training was conducted by zoom to facilitate attendance by persons from all over Trinidad. The sessions comprised lectures, breakout sessions, group discussion and independent work. The two sessions were four hours each.

The zoom training, the first of its kind for teachers, was oversubscribed, and will be continuing for the rest of June, with sessions also in July and August. The teachers, who have been chosen to champion the programme in their schools, were very interactive, and showed a high level of involvement. The essays submitted gave insights and solutions provided by our teachers, who are interacting with the children of our nation on a daily basis. They are invaluable to us, as parents in helping with the education of our own children’s minds and hearts. The discussion topics for the break-out rooms provided very insightful and creative responses to the questions asked, which indicates that the participants had a good command of the concepts being introduced. We. at Communities Alive certainly look forward to working with these educators in implementing the Alive to the World program throughout our nation’s schools in addressing social ills by building character in the next generation.

As of Monday 28^th May, every one of our 118 Catholic R.C. schools, has received a package of Alive to the World books.