Children can be adversely affected by the influence of television. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
A television can be found in almost all households these days. Screens are also available in public places like airports, waiting rooms, shops etc and individuals can watch programmes from their computers, portable televisions and mobile phones. So there is no doubt that television can influence children who are glued to the box for many hours a day.
If what children are watching is not appropriate this can be harmful for them. Inappropriate programmes include those that contain violence and bad language. Children are at an age where they imitate what they see around them, including what they watch on television. However, I believe that television will influence those who have already exhibited violent behaviour the most. We cannot ignore other bad effects of television on young people such as anti-social behaviour and eye problems.
On the other hand, there are plenty of educational programmes that are useful for training youngsters and these should not be ignored. Through television, children can learn a foreign language, science, history, geography and a host of other subjects. Furthermore, restricting the type of shows watched and the amount of time spent in front of the television will limit the negative influences of television on children.
All in all, although studies have being carried out to show the relationship between television and the negative effects on children particularly regarding violence, I do believe that television could be put to good use. There are plenty of valuable lessons to be learnt from this media and with parental guidance and support, children can benefit from this technology.