media influence
Question and Answer
The children who play with my kids in the neighborhood are familiar with terrible programs on television and cable. I can't believe that their parents let them watch such violent and sexualized stuff. What is the long-term consequence of this programming on children?
It is sad and very difficult to understand why so many parents fail to supervise what their kids watch. To those who let them watch anything they wish, I would pose this proposition: Suppose a complete stranger came to your door and said, "You look tired. Why don't you let me take care of your children for a day or two?" I doubt if many of you would say, "Great idea. Come on in." 1
That's a story Peggy Charren, president of Action for Children's Television, likes to tell. Her point is well taken. When we sit our children in front of the television set, we're giving control over them to complete strangers; and more and more, that's a risky thing to do. An increasing number of studies have found that violence on television frequently leads to later aggressive behavior by children and teenagers.
One of the most conclusive studies was conducted by Dr. Leonard D. Aaron. He examined a group of children at age 8 and then again at 19 and finally at 30. Children in the United States, Australia, Finland, Israel and Poland were studied. The outcome was the same; the more frequently the participants watched violent television at age 8, the more likely they were to be convicted of crimes by age 30, and the more aggressive was their behavior when drinking.2
It's time for parents to control the amount and the content of television that their children are watching. The consequences of not doing so can be catastrophic.
Background Information
Video Game Ratings Explained
Ratings are helpful tools for parents who want to make informed buying decisions.
How Violent Media Affects the Brain
New research cements a link between violent video games and increased levels of violence in teens
The Power of the Media
It's hard to deny that music and visual images have tremendous sticking power. But do those lingering sensations really make a difference?
When Life Imitates Art
We need to be very careful about what we allow ourselves to watch and listen to. Examples of others who didn't make wise choices are numerous, and some of them are frightening.
Children and Television
If parents don't know what their children watch on TV, it may come back to haunt them.
Questions and Answers
I'm troubled by some of the CDs showing up in our home. How do we set a music standard for our 13-year-old daughter?
Answer
What is your opinion of video games?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
It Matters What They Watch
Steven slaughtered Xbox villains, watched R-rated movies and surfed endless channels on television. Trouble is, lax boundaries steered him down a destructive path.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Do What I Do
Children learn by watching us live our lives. It is all the more reason to live honorably.
Related Topics
Transitions: Having a Baby, Preparing for Adolescence
Life Pressures: Working Moms, Stay-At-Home Moms, Time for Family
Relationships: Parents and Adult Children, Blended Families
