Many of us have read the staggering statistics about the effects of TV violence on our children. And we can be in one of two camps: TV is just a reaction to society, a projection of the way life is. Or television is influencing and encouraging brutality in this world.
Either way, it can’t be covered in sugar. Violence has always played some role in our society, whether between individuals demanding their will or on a larger scale: governments using ruthless force. So, in a historical sense, it’s important to understand the impact of violence and what we’ve learned. These historical lessons have their place and their context, but what I am talking about is more about the exaltation of violence. Whether it is life imitating art or art imitating life, it doesn’t really matter. Our homes are the shelters, the safety net in this world. This is the place where we encourage our children, lift them up positively, while teaching them and minimizing the effects of negative outside influences. So if we really do live in a violent world, we can offer some peace to our children, and if it’s more a matter of perspective, aren’t we focusing on the wrong things?
Let’s look at the disadvantages of too much violence on TV:
- Desensitization. Television today is much more realistic than it used to be due to the advancement of special effects and computer animation. Due to the sometimes free nature, the line between fantasy and reality can be blurred. then a Hmm and the indifferent shrug can be the degree of sympathy when real news of violence is shared. And to go a step further, children may be less empathetic to the suffering of those around them.
- Fear. How do you feel if you have seen a program about the kidnapping of a child? I know I don’t want my children out of my sight, I become a floating breast. While it is good to be informed, we must differentiate between sensationalism and the facts. What are the statistics and reasonable precautions? If we are constantly seeing negative information, that is what we will always perceive in the world, and this is how people can become plagued with anxiety.
- Increase in violence. Numerous studies have shown the correlation between increased aggression and increased viewing of violence on television. These date from the 50’s.
Television is not a terrible thing. There are numerous educational programs for our children. And if we do our homework, there are decent fun Shows for our children. It’s all about balance, even when watching TV. So what are the solutions for us as parents to combat this violence on TV?
- Know what our children are watching. Watch a show with them, see what they’re really exposed to.
- Set a time limit for watching TV. Do not let your children have the television on continuously. Pick a few shortlisted shows, something they can look forward to.
- open communication Always encourage open communication with your children, and not just about TV shows. If we already have a good relationship with them, they will talk to us about violence on TV or the difference between reality and fantasy. These types of conversations will be more natural and will open the doors to your positive influence.
- Promotion of other activities. There are many opportunities for our children, from sports to music to meeting the neighborhood kids for a soccer game. Encourage these less sedentary activities, there are many benefits in these activities.
Let’s be conscientious parents and help raise strong, well-adjusted children who are a positive force in this world.
