The Effects of Television on the Development of Children
Television can be a powerful influence in developing value systems and behaviour in children. It has brought about a substantial change in the experience of childhood in our culture. Any change in the behaviour and value systems of children will in turn change the future of society. In this sense, it can be seen that the technology of television is shaping society. It is in the environment that we must now consider the long-term effect this situation is having on the development of children. Libraries were the major source of data collection for existing literature on the effects of television on children. Books and journals were accessed from UWS Penrith Ward Library, Campbelltown City Library and Camden Community Library. The Internet was accessed primarily to get information on what books would contain relevant information. In addition, Anti-television organisations were researched via the Internet. The Australian Bureau of Statistics online helped in obtaining quantitative information to back up research. The Approaches to Communication unit reader provided information on the theories relating to technological determinism. Data regarding the amount of television Australian children are exposed to from birth to age 18,
This argument, however, is only valid if children are restricted to viewing programs that are of high quality. Consequently, the economy is boosted as a highly educated workforce increases international competitiveness. Television upsets this balance through reducing metabolic rate, reducing physical activity and increasing calorie consumption, which may be influenced by advertising or result from the increased opportunity to snack. Australians watch a lot of television. Many studies have shown a powerful link between time spent watching television and the likelihood of obesity. Children who watch greater amounts of television and children from low-income families are more likely to ask their parents for products (Fox 1996, p. This demonstrates that television has the power. Whether this is a positive or negative occurrence, technological determinism is clearly present. Neil Postman (1982) argues that television introduces children to an adult world they should not yet know about. Sleep problems have also been associated with television viewing behaviour patterns (SOAP online 1998). This is particularly concerning as it suggests children are being neglected for the sake of convenience. A recent Australian study conducted by Media for Children, (online, 2003) found that children had 'pester power', indicating that they exerted a high level of influence over parent purchasing decisions. the effect this has on the different areas of development, and the content that is displayed was analysed.
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