The Positive Effects of TV on the Family
We know that excessive TV viewing is a leading cause of childhood obesity. We also know that children witness an excessive amount of violence on television, which experts say can cause them to become desensitized to violent acts or even imitate what they see. But any parent who has watched a child learn numbers with The Count, or spent time with the family laughing over a favorite sitcom knows that TV can also play a positive role in family life.
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Educational Television
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When we think of educational television, we often think of programs like "Sesame Street," which teach preschoolers basic reading and math skills, as well as interpersonal skills such as how to express feelings. But educational television also includes "enrichment" television; cultural programs like "Masterpiece Theater" or science programs like "Nova" that can educate viewers and also stimulate conversation. In particular, cultural programming benefits families in rural areas, where there is often a low density of museums and performing arts facilities.
TV as "Campfire"
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At the end of the day our hunter-gatherer predecessors would huddle around a fire, enjoy a meal and share news and information. Today that campfire has been replaced by a flickering box in the corner (or a plasma screen on the wall), but its purpose is still the same. To serve as a focal point for the tribe as they bond and regroup from the "hunt." In other words, any device that brings the family together is serving a positive function.
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Positive Role Models
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It's true that television offers more than its share of violent criminals and tragic reality show stars. But for every Snooki, there's an Oprah. Inspiring role models from all walks of life are on view through the tube and studies show that just by watching these heroic figures and knowing their stories, we can be moved to model them. Bill Cosby, Martha Stewart and Barbra Walters are other TV performers often cited as an inspiring role models.
Watching the World
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Never have we had such access to world events as they unfold. Parents who watch the news with their children have the opportunity to answer questions about frightening situations and give them some perspective. They also have the opportunity to monitor and limit exposure to material too mature for younger viewers to process.
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References
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