Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Payton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Critical insights on trending news and hot topics.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Get
Videos and Photos
MTV Impact
What's It About?
MTV IMPACT reports national and global stories involving sociopolitical and sociocultural issues affecting youth and adults. This channel leverages headlines in entertainment, culture, sports, and politics to gain viewers' interest. There are several different series within the channel, giving viewers multiple options for content and various age-appropriate levels of viewing. The Feel Better series touches on mental health and has open and honest discussions about feelings. Need to Know covers current events in pop culture and news. And 16 & Recovering spotlights triumphant teen stories about their resilience and perseverance to overcome challenges involving truancy, mental and emotional challenges, and substance abuse. MTV Impact was previously known as MTV Decoded, where videos focused on issues like colorism, homophobia, stereotypes and more. All episodes of MTV Decoded are still featured on the channel now.
Is It Any Good?
Critically insightful content. In a modern society full of social commentary that focuses solely on celebrity and influencer culture, MTV Impact sets itself apart by making space for meaningful dialogues around important and universal issues and topics impacting a diverse range of communities. This channel integrates pop culture, hot topics and social justice issues that are grounded in facts and journalistic integrity. The stories prompt important conversations that expand worldviews and promote empathy and accountability.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how MTV Impact creates a platform for pop culture, current events, and social justice and activism issues all in one. Are these topics actually separate? Is there a benefit to having all these discussion in one space?
How can you challenge systems that perpetuate negative ideas and actions (White supremacy, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, etc.)?
Examine your own biases. How can you practice empathy? Why is this an important character strength?
What challenges have you experienced in your peer relationships? What trusting adult relationships can you rely on to support you in challenging times?
What is your perception of your own capabilities? How do you practice self-acceptance?
YouTube Details
- Genre : Lifestyle
- Topics : Activism , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along )
- Character Strengths : Empathy
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate