The Open University’s Open Societal Challenges has awarded a grant to a team of academics from across the OU to collaborate with YSS (Youth Support Services) with the aim to explore the psychological impact of online media exposure on children affected by familial crimes.
The challenge: An Investigation into the Impact of Online Media Exposure of Familial Crimes on Children, is a collaborative effort led by Professor Victoria Cooper and Dr Catherine Comfort. The research team includes Dr Stephanie Bennett, Dr Ellesar Elhaggagi and doctoral researcher Lauren Rose. This challenge will also involve a young person steering group, ensuring that the views of young participants are integral to the challenge’s progress.
This challenge will examine the impact of online media coverage of familial crimes on their emotional wellbeing and development. To achieve this, the challenge will adopt a multi-method approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research methods to explore the perspectives and experiences of children and young people supported by YSS.
The research will employ multi-modal focus groups and individual interviews with children, parents, and practitioners, alongside case study analysis, to identify key themes related to media exposure and its effects on children’s mental health. A central focus of the research is its strong ethical commitment to working with children, many of whom have experienced trauma and challenging life circumstances. Given the sensitivity of the topic, extensive measures will be in place to protect participant wellbeing throughout the research process. YSS practitioners will be present during interviews to provide support, advocate for the children, and ensure a safe and supportive environment.
During the challenge’s second phase, children and young people will actively participate in the creation of resources to reduce psychological effects of online media exposure. These resources will be designed to build resilience, offering practical tools to help individuals manage their emotions and prevent re-traumatisation.
YSS is a leading Worcestershire-based charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and young people. The charity has previously worked with the Children’s Research Centre on the report ‘From arrest to release, helping families to feel less alone’ which evaluated the YSS Families First project and assessed the need and feasibility for similar provisions across the UK. The report was launched in the Houses of Parliament last year. YSS continues to support children and young people by giving them a voice and including them in the shaping of resources to help overcome challenges.
The Open University Open Societal Challenges programme aims to apply the knowledge and approaches of OU researchers through bringing together academics, organisations and policymakers. Working under the themes of Living Well, Sustainability and Tacking Inequalities, the Open Societal Challenges aims to create empowering research that benefits communities both in the UK and abroad.
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