TV Has a Powerful Impact on Young People
Children and teens in the US spend an average
of 3 to 4 hours a day watching TV.1,2
They spend more time sitting in front of electronic screens (TVs,
computers, and video games) than they do on any other activity
besides sleeping.3 Some of this
time may be educational and entertaining. But it may also be full
of images of violence, sexuality, stereotypes, drugs, and alcohol.
Kids are also bombarded with TV advertisements on products they
do not need, including unhealthy foods and snacks.
Research shows the impact of TV on children and
teens is mostly negative. Violence on TV has been linked to real-life
aggressive or violent behavior by kids.2
Many studies have also shown that the more TV kids watch, the
more likely they are to become obese.2,3,4
Obesity is linked to several major health problems, including
asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea (a sleep disorder)
among young people. In addition, kids who watch a lot of TV are
likely to read less than other students.5,6
They are more likely to get lower grades in school.2,5,6
They may also be more likely to smoke, use alcohol or drugs, have
a poorer body concept and self-image, and be sexually active as
teens.2,7,8
Parents Can Make a Difference.
Parents can shape how TV affects their kids by
setting limits on how much they watch and what they watch, by
talking to them, and by setting a good example.
Set Limits on TV and Other Media for Your
Teen or Pre-Teen.
- Set rules on how much TV they can watch.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 1
to 2 hours a day of quality programming (and no TV for kids
under 2). Consider a weekly limit, too. Avoid letting children
watch large blocks of TV (i.e. 4 hours straight) by having them
choose specific programs to watch.
- Set rules about when they can watch
TV. For example, no TV until homework or chores are
finished; no TV late at night or on a school night; no TV during
dinner, etc.
- Set limits about what they can watch.
Teens can handle more serious programs than younger kids can.
But it is still important to limit the amount of violent, sexual,
or stereotyping material they are exposed to. Get to know the
TV rating system or use the TV guide to help you decide what
is okay. When you can, watch shows with your teen and discuss
what they are seeing with them.
- Help them balance TV with other activities.
Don't just tell them to watch less. Encourage them to spend
time finding and doing other activities they enjoy such as:
reading, music/arts, sports, hobbies, outdoor play, social activities,
family activities, etc.
- Turn the TV off during dinner.
Try using this time for talking and being together as a family.
- Turn the TV off when nobody is watching
a program. Avoid using the TV as background "white"
noise. This increases the amount of time kids are exposed to
negative images and advertising. Try playing music instead.
- Keep TVs out of kids' bedrooms.Kids
who have a TV in their room are more likely to spend more time
watching TV, watch programs they otherwise wouldn't be allowed
to, stay up late and get less sleep, and be socially isolated.
They are also much more likely to become obese.
Watch What Your Teen or Pre-Teen Watches
on TV and Other Media
- Know what they are watching.
Pay attention to what is on the screen. Also, be aware of what
your teen is watching when you are not around. Many teens and
pre-teens report that they watch different shows when they are
away from their parents. Talk to parents of your kid's friends,
too; let them know your expectations about TV.
- Watch TV with your kid.Watch
at least one episode of their favorite programs. Make sure you
think it is okay. Surf the Internet together or play their video
games with them, as well.
- Turn it off if it is inappropriate or
offensive.Teach your children to do the same.
- Set a computer block on inappropriate
Internet sites.Set a block on sexually explicit sites
and discuss which sites are permitted for your child to use.
- Encourage kids to watch more positive
programs.It may be easier to get your teen to watch
something else, rather than limit how much they watch, at first.
Use videos and DVDs to record or show high-quality, educational
programs for them to watch.
- Talk with your teen or pre-teen about
what's on TV. When you watch a program together, talk
about what themes it shows. Make links between the show and
personal experiences, books, history, or places of interest.
Use the show as a launching point to talk about difficult issues
like racial stereotypes, gender stereotypes, violence, sexuality,
or drugs. Don't be afraid to express your opinions and values.
- Beware of advertising.Talk about
TV ads particularly with your pre-teen. Help them understand
what ads are trying to sell, how they do this, and how they
can be misleading. Who is behind the ads? What methods are they
using to "lure" kids?
Model Good TV Behavior.
- Limit your own TV watching. Try to watch less
or watch more educational programs. Shows with more violent
or sexual content should be viewed when your younger children
are not around. Remember, your kids watch you and will copy
what you do.
- Don't make TV seem more valuable than it is.
Avoid using TV as a reward or punishment (unless it is punishment
specifically for breaking a rule about TV itself.)
- If you or your kid snacks while watching TV,
try eating healthier snacks. While sitting in front to the TV,
many kids and adults eat unhealthy snacks. There are also many
ads that make foods loaded with fat or sugar look good. Try
to resist the temptation. Eat something good for you and your
family like unsalted unbuttered popcorn, vegetables, or fruit.
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