media influence
The Television Time Warp
I have yet to see a book or article on managing your time that talks about television. When we consider the fact that the average American adult supposedly watches more than 20 hours of television per week, this seems to be a major omission.
Some of the greatest times in our home have been when the TV set has been out of repair (though I admit we did have trouble keeping the kids from sneaking next door to watch it there). But with such a large block of our time devoted to the boob tube, television viewing seems a prime candidate for time management.
On the good side, television can be entertaining, relaxing and informing. For the tired executive who needs to become engrossed in something entirely different, the Saturday afternoon football game may be just the ticket (although going to the local high school game may be healthier). For the busy homemaker, a few half-hours of TV may bring the same type of emotional relief.
On the negative side, television takes an exorbitant amount of time that could be invested in many other areas. It over-entertains us to the point of saturation. It dulls our senses and warps our view of life. It keeps us away from friends, books and stimulating ideas.
What should be done? Certainly we should have a schedule for each member of our families (including ourselves) for how much TV exposure we are going to tolerate a week. This might involve a family conference to select those programs that the family or individuals would watch during the week. It might call for a frank discussion between husband and wife as to whether the Saturday afternoon football game for him is better than bike riding in the park for both of them. It might mean the searching out of educational programs or other outstanding programs so that these become events in the individual's or family's life.
It might mean getting rid of the TV entirely.
In an age of DVDs and satellite TV, there is little doubt that television offers tremendous potential for training and cultural enrichment. But for the family who has been trained to accept the average, low-vitamin fare served by TV daily, it translates into an entire way of life. Has it consumed yours?
Background Information
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.
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 are the long-term consequences when children watch violent and sexual content on television?
Answer
What is your opinion of video games?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Guiding Your Teen Through the Media Landmines
My teenage son and I are catching on to a few new lessons: the importance of trusting God and why some movies and music lyrics are not acceptable.
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
Media Modeling: Setting an Example for our Teens
Isn't it assuring, in this age of menacing media, that V-chips and Internet filters can help us monitor our teens? Regrettably, we still lack mechanisms to help us set boundaries for ourselves.
Where is God in the Midst of All My Troubles?
So many cry out to Him in times of need, but is God really listening? And, more important, does He care?
Related Topics
Relationships: Blended Families, Parents and Adult Children
Transitions: Preparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest
