Fathers' Mediation of Teens' Media Use

• In Event: Cutting Edge Research on Parental Mediation of their Children's Media Use

Abstract

Most studies of parental mediation of children’s media use have included samples comprised largely of female respondents, who are more often ascribed the role of primary caregiver. This study compares US mothers’ and fathers’ use of five types of mediation (structural, monitoring, restrictive, active, and co-use) across four media platforms (television, video games, Internet, and cell phones). Research on gender differences in parenting practices and styles is reviewed to provide a context for studies of parental mediation. Results indicate that fathers mediate less, but that those differences are significant only for Internet and cell phone mediation. Varying levels of parental involvement and parent-child talks were better explanations of mediation. Highly involved parents were more frequent mediators for television, video games, and the Internet. Parents who reported frequent talks with children more frequently mediated all four media. The results are discussed within the context of research on parenting styles and practices.

Author

• Ron Warren, U of Arkansas