New Study: Cursing Hurts Kids and Pre-Teens

Profane Kids Leads to Aggression (photo via Wikipedia)

Growing up, we've all heard the rhyme, "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me."

However, according to a new study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) it seems that words - particularly swearing and cursing - do have a negative affect on the health and well being of children.

Last week, the AAP presented findings at its annual meeting that pre-teens and kids exposed to profanity in television and video games are more likely to use profanity themselves, which has a direct casual relationship to increased physical and relational aggression, according to the study that was also published in the November 2011 issue of the medical journal Pediatrics.

In report titled Profanity in the Media Associated with Attitudes and Behavior Regarding Profanity Use and Aggression, 223 middle school students completed surveys on their aggression, preferred media, time spent viewing media, perceived aggression in their favorite shows and games, beliefs about profanity and profanity use.

The results showed a direct link in the viewing of media with high profanity, profanity use and subsequent aggression. According to the study authors, the findings provide continued support for ratings and content warnings surrounding profanity use in the various media - whether it was video games, music, television or movies.

This research is yet another clarion call for parents and guardians of children to ensure we know what media and the coarseness of the messaging that our young ones are being exposed.

Question: What are your views on swearing or profanity? Do you think there are more important things to worry about?