The effects of media violence on youth are a concern for parents, researchers and elected officials alike. Over the past 30 years research has repeatedly found that there are negative effects on children who watch violent television. Violent video games, movies, music and toys have also come under scrutiny. The Media Violence Education Project began in 1995 and is currently led by SAVE staff member, Tracy Thornton.
In July of 2000, 6 major public health associations signed a joint statement that concluded “based on over 30 years of research, viewing entertainment violence can lead to increases in aggressive attitudes, values and behavior, particularly in children.” [American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Psychiatric Association, American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and the American Psychological Association]
The Media Violence Education Project is offered to youth in grades 3-12 and adults in central Ohio. Each year the project serves between 300-400 individuals a year. The project provides workshops on media literacy and the effects of media violence on society. Workshops are taught on site, in two to six hour sessions. Their purpose is to provide participants with the critical thinking skills needed to understand how the media can motivate and manipulate as well as how to combat the negative effects of violent media.
All workshops are relevant and current addressing media concerns of today. Workshops are developed to address a variety of groups from 3rd grade up to adults. Workshops may also be scheduled for all-male or all-female audiences.
All media violence workshops include 3 major components:
The Business of Media - This portion of the workshop provides education on one of the goals of the media...to make money. We focus on the methods used to influence consumer purchases.
Media Critique - This portion of the workshop teaches participants how to identify specific messages using media and how to distinguish between positive and negative messages.
Advocating for Change - This portion of the workshop encourages participants to make more informed media choices as well as empowers them with a method to share what they have learned with others.
Audience
Range
Elementary School
3rd through 6th grade
Middle School
6th through 8th grade
High School
9th through 12th grade
Adults
Parents, teachers, etc
View Media Violence Education Workshops and Descriptions
Download the MVEP brochure for more information and workshop cost
Specialty Programs
Schedule a badge-approved media violence workshop for your troop or service unit! We are currently offering workshops in the Central Ohio area. *Meets criteria for "The Choice is Yours" Junior badge; skill builder and technology activities for the "Media Saavy" Interest Patch for Cadettes and Seniors. Contact Tracy Thornton for scheduling. Cost is $5 per girl (does not include patch/badge). 20min/50max.
Media Violence Education Project
The effects of media violence on youth are a concern for parents, researchers and elected officials alike. Over the past 30 years research has repeatedly found that there are negative effects on children who watch violent television. Violent video games, movies, music and toys have also come under scrutiny. The Media Violence Education Project began in 1995 and is currently led by SAVE staff member, 
The Business of Media - This portion of the workshop provides education on one of the goals of the media...to make money. We focus on the methods used to influence consumer purchases.
Media Critique - This portion of the workshop teaches participants how to identify specific messages using media and how to distinguish between positive and negative messages.
Advocating for Change - This portion of the workshop encourages participants to make more informed media choices as well as empowers them with a method to share what they have learned with others. 
Specialty Programs
Media Violence Resources 