We all have heard that kids exposed to violent content are more prone to violence.

Researchers point to an existing body of research that documents the negative effects of violent media on children. “A clear picture has emerged that exposure to violent media increases the likelihood of aggressive thoughts, emotions, and behavior.”

But many parents don’t even realize how much violent are actually the movies their kids do get to watch:

The movie rating system, designed 40 years ago when the only way to see a movie was in a theater, no longer is adequate, according to researchers. These days, with DVDs, pay-per-view, and movies that are downloadable off the Internet, children have more access than ever to adult media. Many parents likely are not aware of what their kids are watching… A study by Dartmouth researchers, published in the journal Pediatrics, focuses on 40 movies rated R for violence and shows that these movies have been seen by about 12.5% of American children between the ages of 10 and 14.

Apparently the movies need more clear labels and warnings for parents, and parents need to pay more attention what their kids are exposed to. Aggressive thoughts and emotions are not happy feelings. Between ages 10 and 14 kids have enough of hormones and mood swings, so by restricting what they get to see we actually creating happier and safer environment for them.

Read more at WebMD: Kids and Violent Movies: A Scary Trend
More Young Children Are Watching Violent Movies; Researchers Fear the Negative Effects of Violent Media on Kids.

Other related materials (you can find more links to articles if you follow the link below):
Can TV/computer be harmful or helpful for kids development?