Kids love to watch TV. It’s a fact. However, spending too many hours in front of the screen might lead to dire consequences later in life. Recent research from New Zealand has shown that every hour children spent watching TV on an average weeknight increases their risk of having a criminal conviction by early adulthood by almost 30 percent. This means television could very well be influencing the chances of kids turning into criminals.
The Research
One of the study’s co-authors, Lindsay Robertson, emphasized that children who were already antisocial did not watch more television as previously thought. Rather, those who spent a lot of time watching TV were more likely to manifest antisocial behavior and personality traits in the future.
The cause for concern doesn’t stop there. A separate study focusing on the violence levels in James Bond movies discovered that the number of violent acts depicted in the popular franchise has doubled since the first film, “Dr. No,” appeared in 1962. Researcher Bob Hancox warns that children are watching these increasingly violent movies too, which raises more worries.
Why TV Might Influence Criminal Behavior
One reason for the links between TV and antisocial behavior, especially violence, could be down to desensitization. Watching violence on television often desensitizes viewers to the consequences of the violent acts, making them less emotionally responsive and more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior.
Imitation is another reason. Humans, especially children, learn from observing and imitating the behavior of people around them. When children see violent acts on TV, they might imitate these behaviors, believing that they are acceptable social norms.
Lastly, watching too much TV could lead to a lack of connection to reality. Children may have difficulty distinguishing reality from the fictional world if they become absorbed in and normalized by the violence shown on television.
What Parents Can Do
Parents play a crucial role in reducing the risk of their children developing criminal tendencies linked to television exposure. Here are a few things parents can do to limit the negative impact of TV on their children:
- Limit TV exposure: Set limits on the number of hours your child can watch TV daily. American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children aged 2 to 5 should watch no more than one hour per day, and for those older than six years, screen time should be consistent with healthy activities and age-appropriate educational content.
- Monitor the content: Keep an eye on the programs your child watches and opt for age-appropriate content. Ensure they are not exposed to violent scenes or those that promote antisocial behavior.
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Provide alternative activities: Encourage your child to engage in outdoor activities, sports, reading, or other hobbies that help develop their social skills and reduce their dependence on television for entertainment.
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Set a good example: As a parent, be mindful of your TV habits. Kids often follow the examples set by their parents, so try to model healthy TV viewing habits for them.
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Keep TVs out of the bedroom: Studies have shown that children with a television in their bedroom are more likely to watch more TV and have poor sleep patterns, leading to cognitive and behavioral issues. Keep TVs in common areas of your home to help monitor and control your child’s exposure to television.
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Talk about what they’re watching: Encourage open conversations about the shows your child watches. Discuss the content, themes, or controversial topics to ensure they are comprehending the messages within the programs and can make informed decisions about their validity.
In conclusion, while moderate TV exposure is not harmful to children, excessive viewing can have a significant impact on their future in more ways than one, including increasing their chances of becoming criminals. As parents, it’s essential to actively engage in and monitor your child’s TV habits, ensuring they’re exposed to positive content that promotes healthy development and well-being. This will go a long way in guaranteeing they become well-rounded, responsible adults who make a valuable contribution to society.
