Pages: (41-60 )
Abstract
Children’s fascination with television and superhero films continues to grow, yet the behavioural risks associated with this exposure remain understudied in the Nigerian context. Concerns have emerged in Nigeria regarding children's imitation of risky behaviours portrayed in media content. This study investigated the extent to which television and superhero film exposure predict risk-taking behaviour in children. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 381 pupils aged 6–12years, selected through a multistage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was employed, and results were analysed using SPSS. Findings revealed high levels of exposure to television and film content, with a strong link between such exposure and children’s risk-taking tendencies, influenced by peer pressure and inconsistent parental supervision. The study concluded that unregulated media exposure fosters risky behaviours and recommended proactive parental supervision, integrating media literacy education into school curricula, structured peer-guidance through counselling, community-based awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement of age-appropriate media ratings.
Keywords: Parental supervision, Peer influence, Risk-taking behaviour, Superhero films, Television exposure,