There are counterclaims that children who view violent shows on television suffer long term adverse effects. The American Psychological Association gathered data from various psychology research agencies which has shown that there are three major effects on children who view violence on television:
- Children become less sensitive to pain and suffering of others
- Children may become more fearful in the world
- Children are more likely to have aggressive tendencies towards others
Violence sells, according to George Gerbner, a professor and director of media violence research. Violent images are marketable because they need no translation and speak any language, he writes. The media contributes to the growing exposure children have to violence by creating a “Culture of Fear “ states Jonathan Alter, an author and editor for Newsweek. Media focuses on the violent issues in society causing the public to have an exaggerated sense of fear. Millions of youths face real life violence in their homes while the focus is placed on the media according to Mr. Males. The American Psychological Association reminds the reader that parents have a tremendous power to control their children’s exposure to violence. By being aware of what their children watch, talking to them about violent images, allow and encourage them to see alternative shows, or limit their television time altogether they hold the key to molding less aggressive and more productive young adults.
Alter, Jonathan. “Who’s Taking the Kids?”
Goshgarian, Gary.What Matters in America.
New York: Pearson Education Inc., 2007. 92-93.
Goodman, Tim. "Hate Violence? Turn it Off."
Goshgarian, Gary.What Matters in America.
New York: Pearson Education Inc., 2007. 257-260.
Males, Mike. "Stop Blaming Kids and TV."
Goshgarian, Gary. What Matters in America.
New York: Pearson Education Inc., 2007. 267-271.
World Wide Web
Gerbner, George. “Television’s Global Marketing Strategy Creates a Damaging and Alienated Window on the World.”
Goshgarian, Gary. What Matters in America.
New York: Pearson Education Inc., 2007. 261-264.