Resource Database

American Academy of Pediatrics

Description

From the website: Media Matters is a national public education campaign of the American Academy of Pediatrics. It was launched in 1997 to help pediatricians, parents, and children become more aware of the influence that media (television, movies, computer and video games, Internet, advertising, popular music, etc.) have on child and adolescent health. Issues of concern include the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs; aggression and violence; sex and sexual exploitation; obesity and poor nutrition. Media Matters advocates for media education, or learning how to analyze the media through critical thinking and viewing, as a way to mitigate these problems. As pediatricians, the Academy’s 55,000 members are in a unique position to relay information about media to parents and children. During an office visit they can discuss the issue of media use with parents and children, and distribute relevant public education materials. Pediatricians also often speak at schools, hospitals, professional meetings, parent groups, and to the news media. They have a powerful voice in communicating information about media effects and other health issues.

Topic(s): Cognitive Development & Learning, Legislation/Public Policy, Media Use & Access, Physical Health

User Type(s): Academic, Advocate, Educator, Health Practitioner, Journalist, Policymaker

Address

141 Northwest Point Blvd.
Elk Grove Village , Illinois 60007-1098

Contact Information

Phone(s): 847-434-4000
E-mail(s): .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
URL(s): http://www.aap.org/advocacy/mediamatters.htm

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