Researchers and mental health experts often highlight the potential for , where repeated exposure to extreme content can diminish emotional responses to real-world suffering [7]. For children, "too mature" content can lead to:

Modern video games often blend cinematic realism with interactive violence, creating a more visceral experience than traditional film [5].

Exposure to themes they aren't cognitively ready for (like existential dread or sexual trauma) can cause lasting distress [8].