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You Are What You Watch? The Social Effects of TV

There’s new evidence that viewing habits can affect your thinking, political preferences, even cognitive ability.

By Jonathan Rothwell

Other than sleeping and working, Americans are more likely to watch television than engage in any other activity .

A wave of new social science research shows that the quality of shows can influence us in important ways, shaping our thinking and political preferences, even affecting our cognitive ability.

In this so-called golden age of television , some critics have pointed out that the best of the form is equivalent to the most enriching novels. And high-quality programming for children can be educational. But the latest evidence also suggests there can be negative consequences to our abundant watching, particularly when the shows are mostly entertainment.

The harm seems to come not so much from the content itself but from the fact that it replaces more enlightening ways of spending time.

‘Sesame Street’ as a social experiment

Cognitive ability is a complex characteristic that emerges from interactions between biological dispositions, nutrition and health, parenting behaviors, formal and informal educational opportunities, and culture.

Studying the connection between intelligence and television consumption is far from straightforward, but researchers have developed compelling ways to isolate the effects of television.

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Television has a negative influence on kids and should be limited

Leona Thomas

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Essay on Television for Students [100, 150, 200, 350 Words]

Essay on Television: Television is one of the most influential innovations of modern times. In this article, you are going to learn to write a paragraph or essay on Television (100, 150, 200 and 350 Words). You’ll learn what are the uses and abuses of television or what are the advantages and disadvantages of television. So, let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Short Essay on Television: 100 Words

Television is based on a highly sophisticated science of vision and sound. A man can see as far the horizon. He hears as far as the sound is audible to him. But television takes his vision to a place far beyond his horizon. He sees a thing or person long beyond his actual physical reach. It brings to him also sound from a very remote place.

In fact, television brings vision and sound together from a distance which is beyond the range of human sight and hearing. It is a powerful and very useful invention of modern science. It has conquered space for human eye-sight. It has brought about a great development in the science of communication. It can well be used for entertainment and knowledge.

Television Essay: 150 Words

One of the latest wonders of science is Television. It is an effective medium of communication and entertainment. We can watch live important political, sports and other events happening at distant places. This enables us to have a direct knowledge of the things, places and events far away. TV has thus brought the whole world into the drawing room.

Television is also a powerful medium of mass education. Educational programmes on healthcare and family planning, general knowledge can be sent to millions of viewers through audio-visual presentation in the TV. It also keeps off loneliness.

But TV has its bad effects too. Watching TV sometimes becomes an addiction, People remain glued to the TV and it makes them idle- particularly the students and young people. They neglect sports and games and their studies. Too much of viewing affects our vision. Programmes, if not properly selected, cast bad effects on young minds. Social visits become very rare and people become unsocial.

Essay on the Television: 200 Words

No other thing is as familiar as Television in our present times. It was invented by John Baird in 1925. It first appeared in India in 1959. It is really a wonder of science today. It is a two-in-one. It is the radio on one side and the cinema on the other. Television is a very useful instrument in many ways. It is a powerful medium for education and recreation. It gives lessons on the subjects like science and mathematics and also on geography and history.

It shows us cinema and live telecast on games and sports. On its screen we have a delightful scenery of nature and thrilling sights of animals roaming in the jungles and in the deep waters of the seas. We can amuse the shows of serials. It is also a mighty medium of advertisement.

Sometimes it has bad effects on children. In most cases, they sit tight with it to witness their favorite items which captivate them greatly. Sometimes they neglect their bounden duties as students. They try to copy the most interesting show-style. In some cases they even face their death. Many things are very good with television but its price is very high and the poor cannot benefit by it.

Television Essay in English: 350 Words

Television is a modern invention. When television was first invented, people of the world were very happy because they had the scope to know the world around them and to entertain themselves in the best possible ways. Television is no doubt something which ushered progress of civilization. Some electronic media like BBC took over the most important role to make the people of the world aware of the society to which they were belonging and the environment by which they were being nourished. It is quite well known that, BBC produced all of the plays of Shakespeare as films. Even this world famous electronic media focused on the two World Wars so much so that people of the world came to know how horrible was war and warfare. Thus social consciousness was an important factor that was first aroused by the aid of television.

But this television is now being abused constantly by some commercially debased people. In West Bengal, television is so abused that the young generation is now misguided. The young people follow the bad culture and become oblivious of the hoary tradition of our country. Mere entertainment has been presented on the different television channels. Meaningless serials and reality shows are heart-throbbing without any moral impact. Crimes and social disorder are presented so crudely that the minds of the young people are overwhelmed with frustration, dilapidation, and despair. It seems that there is no escape from despair. The ultimate result is social alienation which brings about moral dilemma.

Yet, the concerned authority is really callous to the problems. Advertisement, sponsors, etc. are the sources of the economic structure of the different channels. Thus, the producers intend to draw the attention of the businessman by claiming the popularity of the channels. The inevitable result of this kind of commercial debasement is of Course disintegration that causes serious disbelief in the sphere of culture and education. Therefore, we must be conscious of the fact that television is not merely a media for entertainment; rather it is a source of important social and cultural messages.

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Apj abdul kalam essay in english | 100, 200, 300, 500 words, blood donation essay in english | 150, 200, 300 words, my mother essay in english 10 lines [5 sets], essay on mother teresa in english for students [300 words], 3 thoughts on “essay on television for students [100, 150, 200, 350 words]”.

I really enjoyed reading your essay on television. It was very informative and I learned a lot. I especially liked the part about how television can be used to teach different subjects.

Essay on TELEVISION

Updated November 24, 2023

The Medium is the Message

Television is a popular medium that has influenced society’s standards and public opinion while delivering educational information and entertainment. The emergence of streaming services has brought about changes in viewer habits and content production, leading to an evolution in the television landscape. Its ability to serve as both an informational and recreational tool highlights the profound influence of television on culture and communication.

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History of Television

Invention and Early Development (19th-early 20th century): The concept of television can be traced back to the 19th century, with inventors such as Paul Nipkow, who designed the first electromechanical television system in 1884. Early experiments continued through the early 20th century, with inventors such as Vladimir Zworykin and Philo Farnsworth making significant contributions.
Mechanical Television (1920s): It used rotating disks to scan and transmit images. 1927 Philo Farnsworth successfully transmitted the first-ever television image through a fully electronic system.
Introduction of Electronic Television (1930s): David Sarnoff of RCA played a crucial role in developing electronic television. Regular television broadcasts began in the late 1930s, with the BBC launching the world’s first public television service in 1936.
Impact of World War II (1940s): Resource constraints temporarily slowed Television production and adoption during World War II. After the war, television experienced rapid growth as economies recovered and technology improved.
Golden Age of Television (1950s-1960s): The 1950s saw the popularization of television in households across the United States and Europe. Iconic shows like “I Love Lucy,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “The Ed Sullivan Show” defined this era. Color television was introduced in the 1950s, enhancing the viewing experience.
Remote Control and Cable Television (1960s-1970s): The introduction of the remote control in the 1960s revolutionized viewer interaction. Cable television gained prominence, offering a wider range of channels and specialized content.
Satellite Television and Globalization (1980s-1990s): Satellite technology allowed for global television distribution. The rise of cable news networks such as CNN in the 1980s and 1990s contributed to the globalization of news coverage.
Digital Television and High Definition (2000s): Analog television signals were gradually replaced by digital signals, offering improved picture and sound quality. High-definition television (HDTV) became mainstream, providing a more immersive viewing experience.
Streaming Services and On-Demand Content (2010s-present): Streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime transformed how audiences consume content. The traditional television model shifted as viewers embraced on-demand programming, binge-watching, and original content produced by streaming services.

Impact on Society

Television’s impact on society has been multifaceted, influencing culture, shaping opinions, and altering social behaviors in various ways:

Cultural Influence: Television has played a significant effect in creating cultural norms and values. It reflects societal attitudes and, as a result, impacts them. It serves as a mirror to society, showcasing diverse perspectives, lifestyles, and cultural practices, contributing to a more interconnected world.
Information Dissemination and Public Opinion: News programs and television documentaries profoundly impact public opinion and awareness. They shape perceptions of current events, politics, and societal issues. The presentation and framing of news stories on television can influence viewers’ understanding and opinions on important matters.
Behavioral and Social Impact: Influences consumer behavior and trends. Advertisements and product placements on TV often dictate purchasing decisions and lifestyle choices. Television programming can influence behavior, attitudes, and social interactions, especially for children. Educational programs have a positive impact on learning and development.
Cultural Homogenization and Globalization: It has contributed to cultural homogenization by transmitting common values, trends, and entertainment across borders. It has played a role in globalizing popular culture. Global events and phenomena can quickly reach a worldwide audience through television, fostering a sense of shared experiences.
Entertainment and Escapism: Serves as a primary source of entertainment, offering a wide array of genres and shows that provide an escape from daily life. It can evoke emotions, create cultural icons, and foster community through shared viewing experiences.
Health and Social Implications: Excessive television viewing has been associated with sedentary lifestyles, contributing to health issues like obesity and decreased physical activity. Television content can impact social perceptions and stereotypes, influencing how certain groups or issues are portrayed and perceived.
Economic Impact: It serves as a platform for advertising and generates substantial revenue. The success of television shows and networks significantly impacts the entertainment industry and economies.

Role of Television

Here’s a breakdown of its influence in different areas:

Entertainment Industry: Television is a significant source of entertainment worldwide. It provides diverse programs, including dramas, comedies, reality shows, and documentaries—a platform for creative expression, showcasing acting, directing, writing, and production talents. Reality TV has transformed entertainment dynamics, shaping pop culture and influencing trends.
News and Information Dissemination: Television remains an essential medium for news delivery. It reaches vast audiences with up-to-the-minute coverage of global events. 24-hour news channels and talk shows shape public opinion, influence political discourse, and raise awareness of critical issues.
Advertising and Consumerism: Commercials profoundly impact consumer behavior, promoting products and shaping consumer preferences. Advertisements generate revenue for networks and drive the economy by influencing purchasing decisions.
Education and Learning: This is a supplemental learning tool for children and adults. Educational programming on dedicated channels offers lessons on various subjects, contributing to informal education.
Cultural Influence: Reflects and shapes cultural norms, values, and societal attitudes by portraying diverse characters and storylines. It contributes to the globalization of culture, exposing audiences to different traditions, languages, and perspectives.
Health and Social Behavior: Influences lifestyle choices and social behavior, impacting everything from fashion trends to dietary preferences. Excessive screen time, however, has raised concerns about its effects on physical health and mental well-being.
Sports and Events Coverage: Broadcasts major sporting events, making them accessible to a global audience and enhancing the popularity of various sports. It provides a platform for cultural events, award shows, and ceremonies, fostering community engagement and celebration.
Technological Innovation and Future Trends: Technology continues to evolve, with advancements in high-definition displays, streaming services, smart TVs, and interactive content. Emerging virtual and augmented reality trends reshape viewer experiences, offering immersive and interactive content.

Harming the Youth

Television provides various benefits and entertainment options, but it remains a source of concern regarding its potential negative impact on the youth. Several factors contribute to the argument that television may be harming the youth.

Firstly, prolonged television viewing has been linked to adverse health effects, including sedentary behavior that can contribute to physical health issues such as obesity and poor cardiovascular health. The allure of television content may lead to a decrease in outdoor activities and exercise, exacerbating the risk of health problems among the youth. Television programming may contain violence, inappropriate language, or mature themes unsuitable for younger viewers. Exposure to such content can desensitize youth to violence, influence their behavior, and contribute to the development of aggressive tendencies.

Advertising on television poses a significant risk to the well-being of the youth. Advertisements often promote unhealthy food choices, unrealistic body standards, and materialistic values. The constant bombardment of these messages can contribute to the formation of negative self-images, unhealthy eating habits, and a skewed perception of success and happiness among young viewers. The impact on academic performance is also concerning. Excessive screen time, particularly before bedtime, can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Poor sleep quality and the potential distraction of television during study time may contribute to lower academic achievement among the youth.

Benefits of Watching Television

While there are concerns about the potential adverse effects of excessive television watching, it is essential to acknowledge that television can also provide several benefits regarding education, entertainment, and social connection.

One significant advantage is the diverse range of entertainment options it offers. From television programs and movies to sports and reality shows, television caters to various tastes, providing a convenient and accessible source of relaxation and enjoyment.

It is also a valuable educational tool. Educational programs, documentaries, and informative channels disseminate information on topics from science and history to art and culture. The educational content can engage viewers and supplement formal education, making learning an enjoyable and accessible experience.

In addition to entertainment and education, it fosters a sense of connection and community. Shared viewing experiences, such as a family gathering around the TV or friends discussing a popular show, contribute to social bonding. it is a common ground for shared cultural references, fostering a sense of connection among diverse individuals.

Moreover, television plays a crucial role in keeping people informed. News programs provide real-time updates on local, national, and global events, helping viewers stay connected to the world around them. This accessibility to information contributes to a well-informed and engaged citizenry. From the convenience of entertainment to the educational and informative aspects, television continues to be a versatile and influential medium that enriches individuals’ lives and contributes to society’s cultural fabric.

Future Trends

Here are some anticipated future trends:

Streaming Dominance Continues: Streaming services are expected to dominate the television landscape further. The convenience of on-demand content and the proliferation of subscription-based platforms will likely redefine how viewers access and consume television.
Rise of Original Content: Streaming platforms investing heavily in original content creation will continue to expand. This trend will likely lead to a surge in high-quality, exclusive programming across genres, further diversifying viewer choices.
Personalized Viewing Experiences: Customization and personalization will become more prominent. AI and machine learning will enable platforms to recommend content based on individual preferences, improving user experiences.
Integration of Interactive Features: Interactive and immersive content will grow, allowing viewers to engage more actively with their favorite shows. This could include interactive storytelling, where viewers influence plotlines or character development.
Convergence of TV and Gaming: The line between television and gaming will continue to blur. Gaming content, live streams, and esports events are increasingly becoming part of television programming, appealing to a broader audience.
Expansion of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies will find more applications in television. Enhanced viewing experiences, interactive storytelling, and virtual environments for immersive content could become more prevalent.
5G and Enhanced Connectivity: The widespread adoption of 5G technology will revolutionize content delivery. Faster speeds and improved connectivity will facilitate seamless streaming experiences and enable the expansion of high-definition and 4K content.
Shift in Advertising Models: Advertising strategies will evolve. Targeted advertising, product integrations, and branded content will likely become more prevalent as traditional ad formats face challenges with ad-skipping and ad-blocking technologies.
Content Accessibility and Global Reach: Television content will become increasingly accessible globally. Streaming platforms expanding their reach to different regions and creating diverse, multicultural content will cater to a more global audience.
Regulatory Changes and Content Curation: Regulatory changes may impact content creation and distribution. Stricter content guidelines and increased efforts for content curation and moderation could influence the type of content available to viewers.

Television has come a long way in terms of the types of programs it offers, largely due to changing audience preferences and technological advancements. While news and dramas have been the traditional formats, reality shows, and streaming platforms have emerged as new and dynamic landscapes. Despite these changes, television has maintained its ability to capture audiences with diverse content. As new technologies continue to shape the medium, television remains a powerful force in shaping cultural narratives and providing entertainment and information to viewers worldwide.

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The exposure of American children and adolescents to television continues to exceed the time they spend in the classroom: 15 000 hours versus 12 000 hours by the time they graduate. 1 According to recent Nielsen data, the average child and/or adolescent watches an average of nearly three hours of television per day. 2 These numbers have not decreased significantly over the past 10 years. 3 By the time a child finishes high school, almost three years will have been spent watching television. 1 This figure does not include time spent watching video tapes or playing video games. 4

Based on surveys of what children watch, the average child annually sees about 12 000 violent acts, 5 14 000 sexual references and innuendos, 6 and 20 000 advertisements. 7 Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to the messages communicated through television which influence their perceptions and behaviours. 8 Many younger children cannot discriminate between what they see and what is real. Although there have been studies documenting some prosocial and educational benefits from television viewing, 9 , 10 significant research has shown that there are negative health effects resulting from television exposure in areas such as: violence and aggressive behaviour; sex and sexuality; nutrition and obesity; and substance use and abuse patterns. To help mitigate these negative health effects, paediatricians need to become familiar with the consequences of television and begin providing anticipatory guidance to their patients and families. 10 In addition, paediatricians need to continue their advocacy efforts on behalf of more child appropriate television.

In this review, we will describe the effects of television on children and adolescents. In addition, we will make recommendations for paediatricians and parents to help address this significant issue.

Prosocial and educational benefits

Studies from the early 1970s have shown that children imitate prosocial behaviour. These imitated behaviours included altruism, helping, delay …

Read the full text or download the PDF:

Children and television

Managing the media.

Children learn not only through real life experience, but vicariously through media exposure which defines our culture and shapes our norms. Exposure to television programming and video streaming profoundly affects how children view their world. Leah Davies advises us to take control.

Negative effects

Adults who care about children developing positive life skills need to be aware of the various messages and ideals being conveyed to children through a variety of media.

As early as 1984, the American Academy of Pediatrics cautioned adults concerning the potential of television viewing to promote violence, obesity, sexual activity, drug use, and ethnic stereotyping. The Academy’s Policy Statement in 1995 confirmed that frequent viewers become desensitized to violence and believe that violence is a justifiable response to problems, and that television viewing is related to obesity and lower academic performance.

According to the Academy, by age eighteen the average American teenager will have spent more time watching television than learning in the classroom. In addition, they will have seen an estimated 360,000 advertisements that are often misleading and exploitative.

Negative messages

The following are some negative messages being transmitted to children via television programming and commercials:

Character – Be selfish, not generous or cooperative – Be insensitive rather than empathic – Show contempt rather than respect for adults – Expect instant gratification instead of being patient – Value things instead of relationships with others

Violence/Fear – Be aggressive rather than using self-control – Use violence instead of negotiating a solution – Feel anxious and fearful, not safe and secure

Moral/Sexual – Use profanity instead of decent language – Be abusive rather than caring – Be promiscuous, not chaste

Drugs/Health – Use drugs without regard to risks instead of saying no to harmful substances – Eat junk food, not healthy food – Take pills to feel better rather than taking responsibility to be fit

Through constant, unsupervised media exposure children are being socialized to be self-centered, unthinking, dissatisfied, impulsive, disrespectful, sexualized, violent, scared and alienated.

Taking control

How can we counteract the harmful messages bombarding children and help them become caring, productive citizens?

Teach children to be critical viewers of television programming. Help them discriminate between fantasy and reality and between valuable and unworthy television content. Ask them to name programs they frequently view. From the list pick a program that is targeted for their age and notify parents of your intent. So that each child experiences the same program, you may want to view it together. Have the children write down or list together what they observe. For example: number of violent acts, scenes where drugs are used, gender, racial, or cultural stereotyping, unrealistic events, reckless behavior, sexual innuendo and the number of commercials.

If feasible, have them record the screen time of each incident. Compile the information and discuss it.

Help children create a program evaluation scale (perhaps a 1 to 5 point scale from worthless 1, positive entertainment 3, educational 5). Have them keep a television viewing diary for a night or a week using their scale to evaluate each program. After reporting on their findings, discuss what was learned and any viewing changes they plan to make. For future reference, you may want to have the children make of list of worthwhile activities they could do rather than watch television.

2. Spot the advertisement

Help children distinguish between ads and programs, and increase their awareness of deceptive television commercials by asking:

“Is it sometimes hard to tell the difference between an ad and the program? Why is this the case?” (The ad often relates to persons or items featured in children’s programs.)

“What is the goal of advertising?” To sell products or services; to make a profit.

“How do they sell products?” Make the commercials as exciting, thrilling and enticing as possible by playing to the viewers longings and emotions; to manipulate the viewer into being dissatisfied.

“How many of you have ordered or purchased an item advertised on television? How many of you were disappointed with the item?”

Have students note when a program stops and an ad begins. Also have them analyze an advertisement of their choice and report their findings.

Encourage children to be critical of food commercials which appear on television. Have them name food items they have seen advertised. Then have them view a food commercial together, and answer the following questions:

“What is the name of the item?”

“What did the ad say about the product?”

“What nutritional information was given about the product?”

“How did the ad make you feel?

Discuss the findings. Have children bring in empty cereal boxes and compare the food labels as to the fat, carbohydrate, sugar, protein and fiber content.

“Which ones are best for your body and why?” Compare the packaging. “Does the package appeal to children? If so, in what way?”

Then compare the packaging of a generic brand to an advertised brand. If possible, do a blindfolded taste test.

To encourage healthy eating habits ask children to keep a food diary of everything they consume in a day or week. Using the Food Guide Pyramid or another viable source, have them judge their eating choices.

4. Spot hidden messages about alcohol and tobacco

Ask children to name brands of beer and cigarettes. Put the list on the board. Lead a discussion on alcohol by asking:

“What do television commercials tell you about alcohol?”

Drinking alcohol is fun, everyone does it, makes you feel a part of the crowd, attracts beautiful girls.

“Is there any mention of the negative consequences of drinking alcohol? Are there any? What are they?” Drunk driving accidents, loose inhibitions, feel out of control, taken advantage of, get sick, possible addiction or death.

“What messages do movie actors and billboards at sporting events on television communicate about tobacco use?”

Smoking makes you look “cool,” a way to show independence, feel tough, look sophisticated.

“Is there any mention of the negative consequences of using tobacco? Are there any? What are they?” Addictive, expensive, shortness of breath, increase chances of cancer and other health problems.

Have students work in small groups to create their own alcohol and/or tobacco commercials which demonstrate the harmful consequences from using these drugs. Videotape the groups. The students may want to perform their “plays” for parents, peers or younger children.

5. Associations with music

Pick a music video that is appropriate for the children’s age. Watch it together. The following questions may be asked:

“Did what you see match the meaning of the song?”

“Did you see any violent behavior?”

“Did you see any tobacco, alcohol or other drug use?”

“Was there any sexual content?”

“How did the video make you feel?”

“What messages were conveyed?”

“Did the producers have the well-being of children in mind when they created the music video?”

“What is the goal of the writer and special effects person?”

After the discussion, turn the sound off and watch it again.

“What did you observe?”

“What could be the results from watching countless music videos?”

Put the list on the board.

6. Taking action

Get children and parents involved. Ask students what they would like to do to counteract the harmful messages conveyed through some television programming. They may want to target one program or one station by boycotting the products advertised. Write letters or email broadcasters, government officials, or television personalities stating their displeasure. Talk to parents and other groups about the harmful effects of some television content.

Have the children, school counselor, or librarian present a program on television viewing at a parent-teacher meeting and/or put the information in a school newsletter.

Copy and use the article titled, “ Too Much Violence on TV? What Can You do? “, located under:

Parent Tips at www.kellybear.com /ParentsFrame.html.

Help parents become aware of the harmful effects of unsupervised television exposure and elicit their cooperation in monitoring ALL media.

By Leah Davies, M.Ed.

See more from Leah at her Kelly Bear resources website http://www.kellybear.com/

This article is used by permission.

Feature Image: mojzagrebinfo – Pixabay

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Essay On Advantages And Disadvantages Of Television

Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Television

500+ words essay on advantages and disadvantages of television.

In today’s world, communication is a crucial aspect of life. Technological advancements made communication more accessible and cheaper. Among all the communication devices such as smartphones, radios, and emails, television is the prominent and common medium for communication. We get to see television in every household. It is an integral part of our society that significantly impacts our social, educational, and cultural life. It reaches a mass audience and provides information about the daily happenings in the world. Furthermore, it is a common source of entertainment among family members.

John Logie Baird invented the television in the 1920s. The word “tele” means distance, and “vision” means to see, which means to watch it from a distance. When television was invented, it showed only pictures of low resolution. But, later on, televisions were modified with the latest technologies. Televisions that we purchase today come with multiple features. We can connect our phone, laptop, tab, and internet access various online apps, HD/UHD quality pictures, 4k-8k resolutions, etc.

We can also watch various educational channels on television. It also keeps us updated by providing news about the world through different news channels. Along with information, it also entertains us with movies, serials, dramas, reality shows, music channels, yoga channels, etc.

So, having a television at home seems to be a great advantage, but the disadvantages are also threatening. The time it consumes from our day-to-day life is more. You can see people going out of routine or postponing schedules if they become addicted to watching television.

Here, in the essay, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of watching television.

Advantages of Television

Television comes with enormous advantages. The most important is it gives us information about current affairs and events across the globe. This information is broadcasted through various news channels, which helps us to keep ourselves updated about recent happenings. It also shares information about multiple programmes or facilities launched by the government. The government also take the help of news channels to communicate with the mass.

We can watch daily soaps, reality shows, music channels, movies, etc. We can also watch food channels and try out recipes at home. During the morning time, if you switch on the television, you will get to watch telemarketing ads. Specific channels broadcast only ads for multiple products, and people can also buy them.

Children can watch various cartoons on the television. Some cartoons teach children about moral values and lessons. It also keeps us informed about the economic condition and the stock market. We also get to watch various fashion shows and keep updated about the latest trends on television.

Earlier, television was costly, but now it comes at an affordable price with multiple features. Now, we get the option to subscribe to our favourite channels and only need to pay for those channels. Educational programmes are also available on television. We can also watch live cricket shows and cheer for our country. Television also telecasts interviews of various political leaders, celebrities, influencers, famous personalities, etc. We can also gain knowledge by watching various quiz programmes.

Television provides opportunities to spend time with our family and friends. We can enjoy watching a movie together. Various channels telecast comedy shows that help us keep positivity in our lives. We also watch movies in different regional languages like Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, etc. It helps us connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

Nowadays, we can also play games on the television and watch agricultural programmes specially designed for the farmers. It promotes national integration.

Disadvantages of Television

There are advantages of watching television, but it also comes with disadvantages. Watching too much TV affects our mental and physical health. When we watch television continuously, it affects our eyes and makes us lazy. Even there are some programmes which are not suitable for kids. We even compromise our sleep to watch TV. Children lose their concentration on their studies by watching too much television. Children prefer to watch TV over reading books to spend their leisure time.

Conclusion of Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Television

There are advantages and disadvantages of television. If television is helpful, it is harmful too. One should not watch television excessively.

We hope you found this essay on the advantages and disadvantages of television helpful. Check BYJU’S for more such CBSE Essays on different topics. You can also find CBSE study materials and resources for Classes 1 to 12.

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Essay on Impact of Television on Children’s

Students are often asked to write an essay on Impact of Television on Children’s in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Impact of Television on Children’s

Introduction.

Television is a powerful medium that can greatly influence children’s minds. It can shape their thoughts, feelings, and behavior.

Educational Influence

Educational TV shows can foster learning. They can improve children’s language skills, creativity, and understanding of the world.

Exposure to Violence

However, exposure to violent content can make children aggressive. They may imitate harmful behaviors seen on TV.

Health Impact

Excessive TV watching can lead to sedentary lifestyles, causing health issues like obesity.

250 Words Essay on Impact of Television on Children’s

Television, a pervasive form of media, has a profound influence on children’s cognitive and social development. Its impact extends beyond mere entertainment, shaping perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors.

Academic Impact

Television can both positively and negatively affect children’s academic performance. Educational programs foster intellectual growth, enhancing language skills and critical thinking. However, excessive viewing can lead to decreased academic performance, as it reduces time for homework and reading.

Social Development

Television shapes children’s socialization process. It introduces diverse cultures and societal norms, aiding in broadening their worldview. Conversely, exposure to violent or inappropriate content can lead to aggressive behavior and distorted social perceptions.

Health Implications

Prolonged television viewing has been linked to sedentary behavior, contributing to childhood obesity. It also disrupts sleep patterns and can lead to vision problems.

The impact of television on children is multifaceted, influencing their academic, social, and physical health. As such, it is crucial to monitor and control the content and duration of children’s television viewing, promoting a balanced and healthy media diet.

500 Words Essay on Impact of Television on Children’s

Cognitive development.

Television can significantly influence a child’s cognitive development. Educational programs such as “Sesame Street” and “Dora the Explorer” can enhance children’s learning abilities, improving their language skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. However, excessive viewing, particularly of non-educational content, can lead to attention problems and hinder academic performance.

Children learn social norms and values from their surroundings, and television is a substantial part of that environment. Positive portrayals can foster understanding and empathy, while negative or stereotypical depictions can influence children’s perceptions about gender roles, racial and ethnic groups, and societal norms.

Emotional Development

Excessive television viewing is associated with sedentary behavior, which can contribute to obesity and other health problems in children. Advertisements for unhealthy food and drinks can influence children’s dietary choices, further exacerbating these health issues.

Parental Role and Regulation

Parents play a crucial role in mitigating the negative effects of television. By monitoring content, limiting viewing time, and encouraging active engagement, parents can ensure that television serves as a positive tool for their children’s development. Furthermore, regulatory bodies should enforce strict guidelines on children’s programming and advertising to protect young viewers from inappropriate content and harmful influences.

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Watching TV: Is It Good or Bad? Essay

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Introduction

Argument for positive effects of tv watching, argument for negative effects of tv watching.

Future fulfilment and success that is enjoyed by people in their adult life depends mainly on the emotional as well as the intellectual development that was experienced in their childhood. The experiences are derived from direct experiences that results from interactions with people around us and indirect experiences that are attributed to the ever growing media sources in the technological world we are living in. In the modern world, the media sources have been taken over by the mass media which incorporates the television; it’s most prominent and prevalent category. Television is attributed to influencing the society’s perception on the real world through the images it depicts. It has however experienced its share of negative and positive criticism. Despite this, it has continued to be adopted throughout the world hence becoming the favourable mass media device. Over the years a lot has been said and written over the impact of television within our society.

The general perceptions and explanations that are attributed to the effects of television in the social life tend to incline on the negative aspects thereby disregarding the other factors that bring about the positive effects of television. Television is considered as a socializing agent (Fisch 112, 113).

One of the functions of the media is to depict the current happenings in the modern world. These happenings are often depicted in the television dramas or the news. For instance while dealing with violence, the media plays its role by indicating the threat it poses and implies the appropriate response that arises from the threat. The focus therefore needs to be shifted from the simple journalistic idea, if the reality which is expected to be captured by the media is to change the motive media of images that are structured to have a role in the determination of social agendas.

Educational Television programs are regarded to have a positive effect on children’s cognitive development as well as social development in adults. There are programs that encourage prosocial behaviours within the society. Positive effects have been identified in the variety of different cultures as they advocate sharing and respect within the society. Among the positive effects of prosocial shows are the increase in interaction levels and a decrease in aggression levels among the viewers as the effects will be will be visible in the real world. Watching TV programs has also been regarded as another way of fostering group identity as teenagers or viewers are known to identify themselves with media preferences (Parke and Clarke-Stewart 307).

According to Straubhaar and LaRose, violent behaviour effects from television have received a lot of attention from researchers than any other antisocial behaviour. Teenagers are regarded to possess the biggest percentage of television viewers. This therefore means that majority of the studies conducted are based on the teenagers within our society. The effect of television on the youngsters and teenagers at large has been an issue of concern in the public domain. This is because it is difficult for the youngsters to comprehend the difference between the current world they are living in and the world they perceive in the small screen. In the current world teenagers tend to spend numerous hours in a day watching the television without supervision. This hence creates room for possibility of harming the young developing mind with contents that are regarded as antisocial behaviour and as well as violent behaviour (Straubhaar and LaRose 407).

According to Martin, majority of the experts laid the blame of increase decay of social behaviours on the television and other forms of the media. It is these forms of media that glorify the unacceptable norms of the society such as drug use and irresponsible sexual behaviours. When these behaviours are seen or encouraged over the televisions the viewers are attracted to them and tend to try the theoretical behaviours practically. This therefore indicates that the viewers imitate what they see or hear over the various sources of media. The fact that the television or the film industries glorify these behaviours, they bear the burden of causing a decline in moral behaviour and increase in moral decay within the society. In the modern world majority of the rap and rock songs are incorporated with messages of violence in their lyrics. This will bound to increase deviance among the teenagers as the forms of entertainment known to them glamorizes the themes that are inclined to deviance behaviours (Martin 89).According to the cultivation theory, television addicts are mainly less concerned with violent acts as they perceive these acts as justified and they can tolerate it. The viewers’ perception on violence is moulded according to what he or she sees on the television thus in time, violence is not viewed as problematic but rather as an acceptable behaviour. The cultivation theory suggests that addicts of the television often perceive the world in a frightening and violent dimension which is contrary to the situation at hand. In addition to this, these viewers tend to be victims of the same violence they are watching. In summation, the violent televised shows are one of the root causes of violent behaviours in the social world as they tend to be more desensitized and aggressive to the aftermath of watching these programs in the sense that they consider the world revolving around them to be fearful, a phenomenon regarded as “mean world syndrome”.

Despite the various factors that contribute to the negative development of behaviours within the society, the one factor that cannot be ignored is the impact the television has in shaping the behaviour of the whole society we are living in. Media violence is one of the factors that are attributed to negative and antisocial behaviours among the developing teenagers and the society as whole. Human beings tend to imitate what they see a process called observational learning. It is at this stage that the youths are normally curious in trying out any kind of behaviour. The observational learning has been described as one of the main psychological process upon which the effects of media violence are based especially in a teenager’s that are developing.

In April 6, 1998 the Time Magazine wrote an article that indicated that a time was coming when the debate on media violence will be put in the same platform as the one the debate on tobacco’s impact on health was kept on. In addition the article went on to condemn researchers who don’t bother in debating over the increased bloodshed over the television that is bound to affect the viewers witnessing it.

Slapstick humour as well as other comedic elements has a way of camouflaging scenes of moral decay. As from its definition, it is regarded as humour achieved from physical action, slapstick humour has been incorporated in various television shows. There are several reasons as to why comedy which is one of the many television shows is regarded to condone violence. Some of the reasons include: 1) in comedies, the seriousness of the violent scenes is downplayed leading to the notion that violence is just another trivial by the viewer; 2) violence is camouflaged by excluding it from the schemas; and 3) when combined together humour and violence will result to downplaying the level of violence.

As regarding the deviant behaviours some of the entertainment shows are centrally focus on portraying a negative perception. The music entertainment shows that depict singers advocating on the use of drugs such as marijuana are bound to instigate negative and deviant behaviours among the teenagers. Majority of these singers are depicted in a lavished life of comfort that is yearned by majority of the teenagers and the moment they portray the use of drugs and other negative sexual behaviours as a common way of life, the teenagers will incline to the newly acquired way of life by trying out the same behaviours shown on the TV.

A lot of the attention from the researchers while conducting their researches has mainly been focused on the negative effects that television has as opposed to its positive effects. While considering the due care that is needed in showing the various programs to the viewers, it must be noted that television when used sensibly will give rise to numerous benefits. However the current form of media has been used to instigate negative social behaviours within the society we are living in.

Fisch, M. Shalom. Children’s learning from educational television: Sesame Street and beyond. NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc. 2004.

Martin, Gus. Juvenile justice: process and systems. CA: Sage Publication Ltd. 2005.

Parke, D. Ross. and Clarke-Stewart, Alison. Social Development. NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2011.

Straubhaar, D. Joseph. Media now: understanding media, culture, and technology. CA: Thomson Corporation. 2006.

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Home / Essay Samples / Entertainment / Television / Positive And Negative Effects Of Television On People

Positive And Negative Effects Of Television On People

Category: Social Issues , Entertainment
Topic: Media Influence , Television

Pages: 2 (1041 words)

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