To View or Not to View, That is the Question

If you have kids (or even if you don’t), you likely own at least one, and probably more like three, television sets. Chances are you’re subscribed to cable television or have a satellite dish. Chances are even better that you have a VCR or DVD player hooked to at least one set to catch those “must see” broadcasts.

But is this good for your children? There is evidence that increased television viewing leads to lower SAT/ACT scores and other measures of academic success. Check out Marie Winn’s website for details of her years of research on the subject.

I think the second part of the question about TV viewing is–is it good for you, even as an adult? In sessions with people who watch a lot or a little, we’ve pondered the emotional effects of television watching.

There are lots of positives–it’s relaxing, it’s informative, it’s entertaining. There are also some negatives–it’s isolating, it’s depressing, it’s overly simplistic. The real problems in life don’t get solved in 30-60 minute increments, although it would be nice if they did.

What do you think? Are you a dedicated TV-watcher? Are you a dedicated non-watcher? What’s been your experience, and if you’re a parent, the experience of your children?

August 11th, 2008 - Posted in Parenting | | 0 Comments