An eye tracking examination of fantasy television's immediate influence on children's executive functions

Several studies have investigated the immediate impact of viewing fantastical television (TV) programs on children's cognitive function; however, the results have been inconsistent. This study experimentally investigates the immediate impact of TV content (high fantasy vs. low fantasy) on the executive functions (EFs), specifically visual attention and inhibitory control, of 65 children aged 5-7. Children were randomly assigned to view either high fantasy (HF) or low fantasy (LF) programs, and their EFs were assessed with eye-tracking pro/anti-saccade tasks before and after viewing the program. The results showed no significant impact of HF content on inhibitory control or visual attention after controlling for age, screen time habits, and EF-related difficulties. Bayesian analysis further supported these null findings. The absence of an effect may be attributed to the specific eye-tracking tasks used, the developmental stage of the participants, and the cultural context. These findings challenge the universality of the fantasy deficit, emphasizing the complex nature of media effects and the critical role of methodology, development, and culture in shaping cognitive outcomes.