After conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University, videos of him being shot and his bloody body being carried out were released. The videos were viewed millions of times, and traditional media outlets’ efforts to limit the graphic content failed.

Experts say that once violent content is released online (“the genie is out of the bottle”), it is very difficult to control. The videos give users credibility and a sense of belonging, and social media platforms benefit from the content because it encourages more engagement.

Viewing violent content has both short-term and long-term effects on the brain. Images of violence activate the brain’s amygdala, triggering the “fight, flight, or freeze” response, which leads to anger, anxiety, and apathy. In adolescents, repeated exposure to such content can strengthen neural pathways associated with anxiety and stress, and reduce empathy and social skills.

Some Canadian parents are trying to change the culture of using smartphones by banning children under the age of 14 through the “Unplugged Canada” movement.

Experts warn that without the cooperation of major social media companies, it will be difficult to prevent children from accessing this content, because there will always be users who will circumvent the restrictions.

The report shows that limiting violent content online and protecting teenagers from it is a big and complex challenge.

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