Children, TV and Video Games

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that controls are placed on certain products and on advertising when targeted to children. The rules covering these regulations have changed over the yeas, based on perceptions of potential harm to children and the Internet age has raised new issues related to video and computer games, the content of which is often violent. The writer points out that television is a special case because it comes into the home and because controls can be imposed more easily as broadcasters must adhere to the requirement to serve the public in exchange for a license. Today, though, most people get television through cable, with many channels that are specifically for cable, and the same regulations and controls do not apply. The writer explains that this reduces the ability of government to pass and enforce rules on content for children. The writer notes that video and computer games are also widespread, though some regulations have been passed to reduce the ability of children to get such games if they are deemed to be not for children, largely through a ratings system with varying degrees of adherence to imposed norms. The writer maintains that concerned parents still want more rational and more effective controls on such content and a solution to the problem.

From the Paper:

"Advertising on programs for children has been under fire for many years. Some object to images of violence, as with the sale of war toys or cowboy gear, and others object to unrealistic images of women, exemplified by products like the Barbie doll. Controversy has also centered on the very concept of developing the next generation of consumers, with some seeing television advertising to children as a way of creating a need where none existed and selling products that are not needed while accustoming children to the idea of being consumers. At some level, this can be a more abstract fear, not as clearly tied to a specific product or type of image, but it can be quite persuasive when one consider the number of ads directed at children, the way toys and other products are sold to children, and the way other products are geared to children, such as sugary cereals and soft drinks. Advertising to all markets increases at certain times of the year, notably in the fall into December, with advertising developed for Christmas and the buying season then and after as bargains attract buyers into the new year. An analysis of the commercials directed at a young audience for films, DVDs, and video games shows some of the selling methods and the appeal made to young people as well as the pervasive nature of such advertising messages, increasing as they do during the months before Christmas in order to increase sales of these products."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brown, L. (1971). Television: the business behind the box. New York: Harcourt Brace & World.
• Buijzen, M. & Valkenburg, P.M. (2000). The impact of television advertising on children's Christmas wishes. Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media 44(3), retrieved March 22, 2008 from http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5000645431.
• Comstock, G. (1980). Television in America. Beverly Hills: SDFE.
• Comstock, G. & H. Paik (1991). Television and the American Child. New York: Academic Press.
• Greenfield, P.M. (1984). Mind and Media. Cambridge: Harvard University Press.

More papers on Children, TV and Video Games:

• Analytical Essay # 132426 : "Violent TV and Video Games and Aggression in Children"
• Essay # 23247 : "Video Games"
• Analytical Essay # 123036 : "TV, Video Games and School Violence"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: