With the rapid growth of digital media consumption among children, experts are concerned about the psychological impacts of excessive exposure to violent and negative content.

UAE child psychologists warn that exposure to such media can lead to “wicked world syndrome”, a condition in which children begin to perceive the world as a far more dangerous and hostile place than it is. really is.

Ahmed (name changed upon request), a 9-year-old boy, began showing signs of anxiety and distrust towards his uncles and cousins ​​after months of watching thriller and crime shows. His once-loving relationship with those closest to him deteriorated as he began to perceive them as dangerous, similar to the betrayal and violence he saw on television. His fear became so intense that he avoided family gatherings, suffered nightmares, and insisted on locking doors to protect himself from imaginary threats posed by his family members.

“He was a happy boy, always looking forward to spending time with his cousins ​​and uncles,” Ahmed’s mother said. “Until March this year, he was very playful and loved being with his family. Lately, whenever relatives visit him, he either leaves the house or locks himself in his room. A few times he even told me that his uncles looked like criminals.

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“At first, I didn’t understand the meaning, so I consulted a psychologist friend. She explained that media content could influence her behavior. After checking his tablet, I found that he was watching suspense and thriller shows,” the mother added.

A child psychologist diagnosed Ahmed with Mean World Syndrome, a condition in which excessive exposure to violent or suspenseful media distorts a person’s worldview, leading them to believe that the world, and even familiar people, are much more dangerous than they really are. In Ahmed’s case, the shows he watched caused him to project fictional danger onto real-life relationships, unable to distinguish between TV series and reality, leading to fear and anxiety.

Dr Aalaa Salim Ahmed, specialist psychiatrist at Zulekha Hospital in Dubai, said wicked world syndrome is a psychological disorder in which individuals, especially children, develop a distorted view of reality after consuming excessive amounts significant amounts of violent or negative media.

“This condition manifests itself as increased distrust, anxiety, and fear toward others, even close family members.

Impact on mental health

Children suffering from mean world syndrome often experience high levels of anxiety, paranoia, and even depression. “Their worldview becomes distorted. They see threats where none exist, leading to hypervigilance, difficulty trusting others, and in some cases, social isolation. This increased fear can interfere with daily life, affecting academic performance, social interactions and general well-being,” said Dr. Ahmed.

According to Bino Mary Chacko, a specialist psychiatrist at Medeor Hospital in Abu Dhabi, prolonged exposure to violent media can create an unconscious belief that the brutality seen on screen reflects real life. “Over time, children may develop paranoid thoughts, viewing others as threats. This can lead to severe anxiety, insomnia and even depression,” Chacko said.

Matters related to media exposure

Experts say there is a notable increase in the number of children experiencing symptoms of stress, fear and anxiety due to excessive media consumption. “Children today are constantly exposed to violent content on television, online platforms and social media,” said Dr Ahmed. “This constant exposure without proper guidance and discussion may make them more likely to develop mean world syndrome.”

Chacko mentioned how social media platforms, with their algorithm-driven content, are making the problem worse. “Children can easily fall into a loop of violent content, which deepens their fear-based perceptions,” Chacko said. Unlike traditional media, social media bombards users with 24-hour access to sensational content, thereby increasing their anxiety.

Warning signs

SM Ayaz Zakir

SM Ayaz Zakir is a senior correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the United Arab Emirates. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling information and human interest stories.