The socialization of children and teenagers through television and the Internet

Television and the Internet play an important role in the lives of children and teenagers in Senegal. On average, they account for more than half the time spent on reading or other learning-related activities. This is hardly surprising, but it does give food for thought about the consequences that may ensue, especially those linked to the education, socialization and development of Senegal’s children and adolescents. The results of this research conducted between 2012 and 2017 showed that schoolchildren and teenagers aged 6 to 18 spend a considerable amount of time watching TV or surfing the Internet. These media and ICT exert a significant influence on the development and socialization of children and adolescents in Dakar. This influence depends on a number of factors: accessibility, the TV programs watched, the websites visited, the number of hours spent watching TV and surfing the Internet, the child’s age, sensitivity and personal experience, and the discussions and reactions he or she has with peers regarding TV or virtual content.