Key points

Graphic violence spreads online fast, often without warning or context.

Online exposure to violent events can harm kids’ mental health and well-being.

Children and teens rely on adults to help them make sense of these online experiences.

Connection and media literacy help buffer children from harmful impacts.

Political and interpersonal violence is not new. What is unique to this generation is the proliferation of graphic content online. Raw footage of political assassinations, war crimes, racialized violence, and sexual assault can spread quickly in the wake of acts of violence, popping up in young people’s social feeds without warning or context.

The psychological toll of online violence

These images aren’t just painful to watch. They can take a significant toll on ou

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