Television programmes, the internet and computer games are causing a generation to become violent, sexually active and at risk of mental illness, according to a new study.

The study pointed toward advertising, celebrity culture and pressure from peers as some of the reasons that girls have sex before the legal age of consent.

The internet and computer games were cited as the cause of teenage violent behaviour which in turn leads to the onset of mental illness.

Becoming sexually active early and displaying violent tendencies was also linked to young people following the example of selfish adult behaviour.

The relentless drive toward personal gain in today’s society has marginalised the needs of children and is the greatest threat to a generation’s welfare, said the study.

In conclusion, the report stated that the priority for adults was toward their own life rather than taking others into consideration and contributing to the greater good. This behaviour was causing problems in young people.

The study formed part of the ‘Good Childhood’ report carried out by the Children’s Society charity. The report said that the age at which people have their first sexual experience has dropped from 21 to 16 since 1953 and teenage pregnancy in the UK is higher than anywhere in western Europe.

The report went on to warn of the effects of long hours spent by children watching TV, on the internet and playing computer games. There is mounting evidence to suggest that this exposure to violence encourages aggression and is portrayed as being part of normal life.

The report also made recommendations for a halt to councils being allowed to build on parks, sports fields and playgrounds and youth centres available for every 5,000 people.

If you’re having concerns about your child’s behaviour, or perhaps worried that your own behaviour is affecting your child’s, family therapy and family counselling may help.

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