Viewing violent policing videos contributes to trauma symptoms for Black Americans.

What is it about?

Videos of police violence against Black Americans are distributed widely on social media and mass media channels. Our results indicate that watching these videos is associated with symptoms of trauma, an effect that is pronounced for Black viewers.

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Why is it important?

This research adds to our understanding of the role that media can play in mental health outcomes. These findings demonstrate the importance of considering vicarious trauma in therapeutic settings and have implications for dissemination of these videos through media channels.