ASSESSING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACTS OF EXCESSIVE VIOLENCE AMONG YOUTH IN CHENNAI AFTER WATCHING STREAMING CONTENTS ON DISNEY+ HOTSTAR

Abstract

Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms like Disney Hotstar, which offer a wide range of shows and movies, it is crucial to examine the extent of violence contents and its effects on the urban youth population in Chennai’s. The present study aims to examine the psychological impacts and the possible consequences of excessive violence among the youth in Chennai after watching streaming contents on Disney+ Hotstar. The popularity and accessibility of streaming platforms have led to an increase in the exposure of youth to various forms of media violence, which may have detrimental effects on their psychological well-being. Through this research, we seek to understand the extent of the psychological impacts and contribute to the existing literature on the effects of violence in media on youth. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather data on the experiences and perceptions of youth regarding violence in media content. Preliminary findings suggest that exposure to excessive violence on Disney+ Hotstar can lead to heightened levels of aggression, desensitization to violence, and increased anxiety among youth in Chennai. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of parental mediation and media literacy programs in mitigating the negative effects of media violence on youth. The implications of these findings for policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals are discussed, along with recommendations for future research in this area.