Abstract
We questioned a representative sample (N = 1047) of Flemish children ages 11 and 12 about their news consumption during an “average newscast” period without extraordinary situations such as child abduction, terrorist attacks, or severe murder cases, as is predominantly the case in previous studies. We measured news exposure, fear and sadness scores, total amount of television viewing, gender, age, and asked children about parental guidance. Our data indicate that the frequently recommended active parental mediation style does not result in more successful mitigating effects on fear or sadness. Hierarchical multiple regression models show that mere news exposure adds to explanation but in a limited way when compared with partial restrictive parental guidance—the largest predictor (additional 15 per cent) in fear. Active parental mediation is a significant predictor (additional 5 per cent) in sadness scores. In-depth interviews suggest that the precise content of parental intervention is crucial.
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