Some TV shows too real for young children

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 48, 19 May 1987, Page 11

Some TV shows too real for young children

The following is an article from Waiouru Public Health Nurse Anne Whyte: People of all ages identify with characters in a programme they are watching, thus children seem to learn values through those expressed by their favourite TV characters and unfortunately, these are not always good values. A programme may have after-effects depending on the age and personality of the viewer. Remember that seeing can be fearing as a young child cannot always distinguish between real and unreal and may be frightened by a programme adults and older children enjoy. Things to watch out for in young children are nervous reactions such as bad dreams, rough play and fear of the dark. Remember that young

children may find TV programmes more real than real-life and therefore programmes that show a distorted view of life should be avoided. TV has unquestionable benefits, people are aware of the larger world around them thanks to TV. They are likely to possess a richer vocabulary if the programmes watched provide a correct speech model and can gain a wider base of general knowledge. However, TV has unquestionable disadvantages. Time spent sitting in front of the television could be more gainfully spent elsewhere. TV can stifle conversation because the set does most of the talking. TV teaches passivity and creates the illusion of having done something or been somewhere when the only activity has been sitting.

TV can create a higher tolerance of violence and aggression as a result of these attributes often being displayed by TV heroes. Imaginative and spontaneous play declines and children's games become mere imitations of what they have seen in their television viewing. People can be brainwashed by some forms of TV advertising which may give false information. For purposeful TV viewing you should know what your children are watching, you should watch programmes with your child and talk with him or her, answering questions honestly. You should also explain to your child why they are not allowed to watch some programmes Last of all remember, what people watch is more important than how long they watch.