2025/09/05 by Hepek Milli, Shalini Agarwal, Shivani Singh · 1 voice
Social Sciences · Arts and Humanities · Health Professions · #Japanese History and Culture #Media Influence and Health #Film in Education and Therapy
paper · doi:10.18311/jeoh/2025/44993
openalex publication_date 2025/09/05 · openalex created_date 2026/03/14 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/26
This study, “Exploring mental well-being: A study of youth watching anime across gender”, investigates the impact of anime consumption on the mental well-being of youth, with a specific focus on gender differences. Anime, a globally influential form of Japanese animation, is particularly popular among adolescents and young adults. Given its rising consumption, this research aims to explore how anime affects the emotional and psychological health of its viewers. Using a mixedmethod approach, the study collected data from 180 respondents aged 15-25 through online and offline surveys, utilizing the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS) to measure mental health outcomes. The sample comprised 45% males and 55% females, recruited via snowball sampling in Lucknow, India. The results reveal a nuanced picture of anime’s impact on mental well-being. While a significant majority (63.3%) reported moderate effects, there were also notable perceptions of both low (25.5%) and high (6.9%) impacts. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in mental well-being across gender groups. These findings highlight the complex relationship between anime consumption and mental health, suggesting both potential benefits and risks. The study underscores the need for mindful consumption and further research to maximize positive outcomes while mitigating negative effects. This research provides valuable insights for parents, educators, and mental health professionals aiming to understand and navigate the influence of anime on youth mental well-being. Major Findings: The study revealed that anime has a predominantly positive effect on the mental well-being of youth, contributing to emotional support (71% of respondents), relaxation (64%), and fostering a sense of community (59%). However, it also emphasized 38% of participants reported increased anxiety, and 24% indicated aggression linked to certain themes, underlining the importance of monitoring content consumption.