Mothers Know Best: Analyzing Maternal Mediation Strategies for Guiding Children's Media Use in Davao City, Philippines
Abstract
This study explores the media mediation strategies employed by mothers in guiding their children's media consumption, focusing on how mothers' media literacy levels influence their practices. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing importance of digital engagement in children's lives, it is crucial to understand the strategies mothers use to protect and educate their children in this digital landscape. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative data. Ten mothers of children aged 6 to 12 years in Davao City, Philippines, participated in the study. The quantitative data was gathered using Renee Hobbs’ Media Literacy Scale to assess mothers' media literacy, while qualitative insights were drawn from open-ended survey questions and follow-up interviews. The findings revealed six key themes in maternal mediation practices: proactive media management, interactive media education through parental dialogue, family bonding through media, discipline rooted in family values, prioritizing digital safety and privacy, and the influence of peer practices and virtual communities. The study found that higher media literacy among mothers positively influenced their ability to engage in more effective mediation strategies, emphasizing the importance of education, family values, and digital safety. These results underscore the role of mothers not only as supervisors but also as active mentors in their children's media consumption. This research highlights the need for continued support for mothers in developing media literacy to foster safer and more meaningful digital experiences for children.
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