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Home — Essay Samples — Business — Media — Television Negative Effects On Society

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Television Negative Effects on Society

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watching television has an adverse effect essay

What are the Health Effects of Watching Television?

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Zainab Mustafa, BSc

Introduction Physical health effects Mental health effects Health effects on children References Further reading

It has become more unusual to find a house in the developed world without a TV set than with one. As well as becoming a staple household appliance, the emergence of smartphones and tablets has made accessing video and film content even easier. Exacerbated by the global pandemic, the phenomenon of binge-watching has become widespread due to the readily available content on streaming services.

In September 2020, a record number of 13 million UK households held at least one streaming on-demand subscription, and 6.7 million had two or more subscriptions. This generates £1.5 billion in revenue from the UK and £40.1 billion worldwide. With video fast becoming the medium of information-sharing, advertisement, and entertainment, the industry has burgeoned without preventative caution for the potential negative effects of excessive viewing.

Image Credit: Proxima Studio/Shutterstock

Physical health effects

Television and broadcasting entertainment have proved so effective that ‘binge-watching’ is now a widely practiced hobby. Viewers can physically relax while living vicariously through the adventures of others, resulting in prolonged periods of sedentary activity. Reduced movement during screen time and the high probability of meals or snacks consumed during viewing contribute to expanding waistlines. Moreover, live television is regularly punctuated with advertisements.

A study from the appetite and obesity research group at the University of Liverpool has concluded that children see approximately 12 HFSS (High in Fat, Sugar, and Salt) advertisements an hour when watching family-friendly content. Shows sporting sponsored products further exacerbate the lure of unhealthy food. Alongside the burgeoning obesity and high BMI numbers across the UK and US, the increased intake of sugary foods unmitigated by exercise spikes a rise in type 2 diabetes.

Sedentary activity is also positively associated with higher levels of infertility - more than 20 hours of TV-watching a week results in under 44% of normal sperm levels. In men, testicular health requires good circulation, which is sustained by exercise. Fat tissue has been linked to higher levels of oxidative stress and inflammation in sperm cells; the presence of these stress markers decreases with regular exercise and correlates with seminal DNA integrity.

In women, sedentary behavior and extremes of high or reduced fat tissue contribute to infertility. Regular exercise stimulates hormone secretion, which contributes to egg production. In addition, the improved circulation and metabolic benefits from exercise promote healthy egg growth.

watching television has an adverse effect essay

Mental health effects

Television is an incredible innovation that combines audio and visual signals to provide an immersive entertainment experience. Screen time has been speculated to develop emotional intelligence in viewers by allowing them to simulate situations from different perspectives. However, this has also been speculated to provide unrealistic expectations and demonstrate the supposed ‘costs’ of relationships.

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TV has links to anxiety and depression as individuals can fall into a perpetual cycle of physical loneliness and increased dependence on electronic entertainment, contributing to further self-isolation. Another contributor to anxiety and depression is insomnia related to screen time. The screens of electronic devices emit blue light, which simulates daylight.

As TV is mostly watched in the evenings, this blue light affects melatonin levels and the sensitivity of the body clock to time. This results in insomnia which disrupts the body’s ability to replenish from a restful sleep. Exciting and violent scenarios in shows also stimulate the adrenaline system and keep viewers awake, further exacerbating insomnia.

Image Credit: Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock

Health effects on children

Children are not immune from TV-related health effects. Whilst the most crucial brain development occurs in the early years, the brain is not fully formed until 25, with another rapid expansion period taking place around age 16-17. As watching television is an easily accessible and engrossing activity, it is tempting to entertain children with on-demand programs. However, this convenience comes at a cost – even 2 hours of TV a day have been shown to delay speech progression by 6-fold in children under the age of 2. Older children have been noted to internalize aggression and violence, which may have adversely damage their developing character.

  • Johnson JG, Cohen P, Kasen S, First MB, Brook JS. Association Between Television Viewing and Sleep Problems During Adolescence and Early Adulthood. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2004;158(6):562–568. doi:10.1001/archpedi.158.6.562
  • Boyle, M., 2021. TV streaming statistics | Finder UK . [online] Finder UK. Available at: <https://www.finder.com/uk/tv-streaming-statistics>
  • Foucaut, A., Faure, C., Julia, C., Czernichow, S., Levy, R. and Dupont, C., 2019. Sedentary behavior, physical inactivity and body composition in relation to idiopathic infertility among men and women. PLOS ONE , 14(4), p.e0210770.
  • Grish, K., 2021. How Changing Your Exercise Routine Could Boost Fertility . [online] Shape. Available at: <https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/boost-fertility-with-exercise>
  • Hajizadeh Maleki, B., Tartibian, B. and Chehrazi, M., 2017. The effects of three different exercise modalities on markers of male reproduction in healthy subjects: a randomized controlled trial. Reproduction , 153(2), pp.157-174.
  • Madehow.com. 2021. How television is made - manufacture, history, used, parts, components, industry, History, Raw Materials, Design . [online] Available at: <http://www.madehow.com/Volume-3/Television.html>
  • Obesity Prevention Source. 2021. Television Watching and “Sit Time” . [online] Available at: <https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/obesity-prevention-source/obesity-causes/television-and-sedentary-behavior-and-obesity/>
  • Pacheco, D., 2021. How Screen Time May Cause Insomnia in Teens | Sleep Foundation . [online] Sleepfoundation.org. Available at: <https://www.sleepfoundation.org/teens-and-sleep/screen-time-and-insomnia-for-teens>
  • Park, A., 2021. Exercise May Be the Key to Better Sperm . [online] Time. Available at: <https://time.com/4591307/exercise-sperm-count/>
  • Schroeder, M., 2021. 9 Ways Watching TV Is Bad For Your Health . [online] HuffPost. Available at: <https://www.huffpost.com/entry/health-risk-of-watching-tv_n_56200c55e4b06462a13b5eb4>
  • Stoy, J., Hjollund, N., Mortensen, J., Burr, H. and Bonde, J., 2004. Semen quality and sedentary work position. International Journal of Andrology , 27(1), pp.5-11.

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Last Updated: Dec 30, 2022

Zainab Mustafa

Zainab Mustafa

Zainab obtained her BSc (Hons) in Medical Genetics from the University of Leicester in 2019 having completed a research project in genetic analyses of novel L1 insertions. This project focused on examining the legitimacy of novel LINE-1 sequences that had been discovered in platinum genomes using bioinformatic tools. Utilising genotyping assays, the novel insertion under scrutiny was verified, sequenced and compared to existing L1s to determine distinction and a possible lineage. Further genetic analyses were performed using ceph plate populations to begin establishing the prevalence of this transposable element amongst the individuals in these known populations.

Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:

Mustafa, Zainab. (2022, December 30). What are the Health Effects of Watching Television?. News-Medical. Retrieved on June 30, 2024 from https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-the-Health-Effects-of-Watching-Television.aspx.

Mustafa, Zainab. "What are the Health Effects of Watching Television?". News-Medical . 30 June 2024. <https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-the-Health-Effects-of-Watching-Television.aspx>.

Mustafa, Zainab. "What are the Health Effects of Watching Television?". News-Medical. https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-the-Health-Effects-of-Watching-Television.aspx. (accessed June 30, 2024).

Mustafa, Zainab. 2022. What are the Health Effects of Watching Television? . News-Medical, viewed 30 June 2024, https://www.news-medical.net/health/What-are-the-Health-Effects-of-Watching-Television.aspx.

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Effects of Watching Too Much TV: Mindful Consumption for Well-Being

Table of contents, physical health consequences, impact on mental well-being, reduced social interactions, academic and cognitive implications, strategies for healthy tv consumption.

  • Biddle, S. J., Pearson, N., Ross, G. M., & Braithwaite, R. (2010). Tracking of sedentary behaviours of young people: A systematic review. Preventive Medicine, 51(5), 345-351.
  • Christakis, D. A., Zimmerman, F. J., DiGiuseppe, D. L., & McCarty, C. A. (2004). Early television exposure and subsequent attentional problems in children. Pediatrics, 113(4), 708-713.
  • Rideout, V. J., Foehr, U. G., & Roberts, D. F. (2010). Generation M2: Media in the lives of 8- to 18-year-olds. Kaiser Family Foundation.
  • Valkenburg, P. M., & Peter, J. (2013). The differential susceptibility to media effects model. Journal of Communication, 63(2), 221-243.
  • Ward, L. M. (2003). Understanding the role of entertainment media in the sexual socialization of American youth: A review of empirical research. Developmental Review, 23(3), 347-388.

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Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development: An Updated Review and Strategies for Management

Sudheer kumar muppalla.

1 Pediatrics, PES (People's Education Society) Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, IND

Sravya Vuppalapati

2 General Practice, PES (People's Education Society) Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, IND

Apeksha Reddy Pulliahgaru

3 Pediatric Medicine, PES (People's Education Society) Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, IND

Himabindu Sreenivasulu

4 General Medicine, PES (People's Education Society) Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, IND

Children's heavy reliance on screen media has raised serious public health issues since it might harm their cognitive, linguistic, and social-emotional growth. This study examines the effects of screen time on many developmental domains and covers management and limitation techniques for kids' screen usage. Screen media has a wide range of cognitive consequences, with both beneficial and detrimental effects noted. Screens can improve education and learning; however, too much time spent in front of a screen and multitasking with other media has been related to worse executive functioning and academic performance. As screen time reduces the amount and quality of interactions between children and their caregivers, it can also have an impact on language development. Contextual elements like co-viewing and topic appropriateness are key in determining how language development is impacted. Additionally, excessive screen usage has detrimental effects on social and emotional growth, including a rise in the likelihood of obesity, sleep disorders, and mental health conditions including depression and anxiety. It can obstruct the ability to interpret emotions, fuel aggressive conduct, and harm one's psychological health in general. Setting boundaries, utilizing parental controls, and demonstrating good screen behavior are all techniques that parents may use to manage children's screen usage. We can reduce the possible negative impacts of excessive screen time and promote children's healthy development and well-being by increasing knowledge and encouraging alternative activities that stimulate development.

Introduction and background

New technologies, such as mobile and interactive screen media, are now ingrained in a young child's daily life. Children today are "digital natives," having been born into an ever-changing digital ecosystem augmented by mobile media. The age at which kids engage with media on a regular basis has fallen from four years in 1970 to four months in the present day [ 1 ]. Electronic devices have revolutionized learning, communication, and information dissemination, but recent research indicates that screen media use may have serious adverse effects on children's health over the long term, making this a pressing public health concern [ 2 ]. It has raised the likelihood that children will become obese, experience behavioral problems, sleep irregularities, poor academic performance, etc. [ 1 - 3 ].

This article delves into the profound effects of excessive screen time on children's cognitive, language, and social-emotional development, while also exploring the crucial strategies and responsibilities that parents and schools can undertake to effectively manage and diminish screen time in young individuals.

Impact on development

Cognitive Development

Screen media use may have both beneficial and detrimental effects on a kid’s cognitive results. Media devices with screens have the potential to improve education and learning [ 2 ]. For instance, research has suggested that electronic books and learning-to-read applications may improve young children's early reading skills and creative thinking capacities [ 2 , 4 , 5 ]. However, studies have also demonstrated the negative effects of screen media use on a number of cognitive areas such as executive functioning, sensorimotor development, and academic outcomes [ 2 , 6 ]. Media multitasking was found to have a negative impact on executive functioning in teenagers, notably on working memory, inhibition, and the capacity to switch between tasks [ 2 , 7 ].

The Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development cohort study found a long-lasting connection between early screen media exposure and cognitive abilities, with each one-hour increase in TV exposure at two years of age corresponding to a 7% unit decrease in participation in class and a 6% unit decrease in math proficiency in the fourth grade [ 8 ]. A Spanish research study discovered a negative correlation between the use of screen media and academic achievement, indicating that increased screen time was associated with lower academic performance. Similarly, a study conducted in the United States found a significant link between higher levels of media multitasking and lower scores on standardized tests measuring academic performance in mathematics and English [ 9 ].

However, adverse executive and academic outcomes may be confounded by the poorer attention and focus from multitasking behaviors rather than solely from screen media overuse, and more research is necessary to tease out this relationship. Language development has received the majority of emphasis in studies on screen usage and cognitive development in young children, whereas other cognitive development domains including executive skills have received less attention [ 10 ]. Thus, there are significant, albeit indirect, effects of screen media use on cognitive development in children [ 2 ].

Language Development​​

The early years of childhood are crucial for acquiring language skills and children develop various aspects of language, including vocabulary and phonology [ 11 ]. These skills are acquired through interactions with adults [ 11 ]. Numerous studies have highlighted the significance of human interaction, particularly the frequency and quality of exchanges between adults and children, in the development of language skills [ 12 ]. However, there is a growing concern that screen time diminishes the quantity and quality of interactions between children and their parents, resulting in fewer chances for the child to practice and develop their language abilities [ 11 ]. The relationship between screen time and speech and language development is complex, and there are multiple factors that should be taken into account [ 13 ]. The impact of screen viewing is predominantly influenced by contextual factors rather than the sheer amount of time spent watching [ 14 ]. The context encompasses several aspects, such as the behavior exhibited by adult caregivers during screen time, the appropriateness of the content for the child's age, and the level of interactivity provided by the screen [ 14 ]. Increasing the amount of screen time at an early age has negative effects on language development [ 13 ]. However, beginning screen time at a later age has some potential benefits [ 13 ]. The characteristics of videos, their content, and co-viewing also play a role in influencing language development [ 13 ]. However, other studies have reported negative effects on speech, language, motor skills, cognitive development, and social development [ 13 ].

Adults should be aware of the impact of background television when children are present [ 13 ]. Studies have shown that increased exposure to background television can have adverse effects on children's language usage, executive functioning, and cognition in children under the age of five [ 13 ]. Excessive television viewing can also potentially affect language development and reading abilities at a young age [ 13 ].

A few studies show a positive correlation between children's screen time when co-viewed with a parent and their expressive lexical, phonological, and overall language abilities [ 11 ]. Studies have indicated that compared to children who view screens for ≤1 hour per day, those who engage in two or more hours per day, or three or more hours per day, are more likely to experience behavioral problems and have poorer vocabulary acquisition [ 15 ]. These findings suggest the importance of monitoring and regulating screen time for young children to mitigate potential adverse effects on their development and behavior [ 15 ].

While it is true that screens have become ubiquitous in homes and are increasingly integrated into school systems, it is crucial to educate caregivers of children under the age of three years about the potential risks associated with prolonged screen exposure in inappropriate contexts [ 14 ]. The current findings suggest that future research should investigate the screen time patterns of the entire family and explore the cumulative impact of both children's and parents' total screen time on language skills, specifically focusing on lexical skills [ 11 ]. In addition to providing guidance, it is crucial to offer families alternative options to media use that promote positive development, such as parent-child play activities [ 16 ]. These alternatives should be made available in pediatric practices and early childhood centers to support families in creating enriching and interactive experiences with their children [ 16 ].

Social-Emotional Development

In recent years, the concept of screen time has become more complex, with a wide range of electronic devices available worldwide [ 17 ]. The advancement of technology in recent years has led to increased screen-based technology usage among young people, coinciding with a decrease in their engagement with nature and impacting their mental health and overall well-being [ 18 ]. Research has shown negative associations between screen time, particularly television viewing, and the development of physical and cognitive abilities. Additionally, screen time has been linked to obesity, sleep problems, depression, and anxiety [ 17 ]. The specific physiological mechanisms underlying the adverse health outcomes related to screen time, as well as the relative contributions of different types of screens and media content to these outcomes, are still not fully understood [ 17 ]. However, studies in very young children indicate that screen usage is an independent risk factor for reduced psychological well-being. One study shows that increased TV exposure between six and 18 months of age was associated with emotional reactivity, aggression, and externalizing behaviors [ 17 ]. Few studies indicate that higher screen time at the age of four years is associated with lower levels of emotional understanding at the age of six years. It also reveals that having a television in a child's bedroom at the age of six years predicts lower levels of emotional understanding at eight years [ 19 ]. Gaming was associated with lower levels of emotional understanding in boys but not in girls. This suggests that different types of screen activities may have distinct effects on the emotional development of children based on their gender [ 19 ].

Computer use and video gaming, but not television viewing, were shown to be connected with more severe depressive symptoms when looking at the effects of various types of screens. Video gaming, in particular, is correlated with the severity of anxiety [ 17 ]. These findings align with other studies showing a cumulative impact of high screen time on symptoms, with more pronounced effects emerging during early adolescence and beyond [ 17 ]. Screen time-induced poor sleep, nighttime use of digital devices, and dependency on mobile phones have been associated with depressive symptoms [ 20 ]. Sleep issues, excessive screen time, and exposure to content that is violent and fast-paced trigger dopamine and reward pathways in the brain, all of which have been associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related behavior [ 20 ]. Early and persistent exposure to violent content raises the chance of engaging in antisocial behavior [ 20 ]. Psychoneurological effects of addictive screen time use include a decrease in social coping skills and the development of craving behaviors resembling substance dependence [ 20 ]. Structural changes in the brain related to cognitive control and emotional regulation have been observed in individuals with addictive digital media behavior [ 20 ].

It is worth noting that screens can also have positive educational and informational benefits [ 17 ]. For example, many schools are effectively using blogs as educational tools to improve written English, and the Internet provides access to health resources, including information on sexually transmitted infections and mental health [ 17 ]. Starting around the age of two years, high-quality television programs that are designed for specific educational purposes can serve as an additional means for early language and literacy development in children [ 21 ]. Such programs can also support cognitive development, promote positive racial attitudes, and encourage imaginative play [ 21 ]. High-quality content can enhance social and language skills for all children aged two years and older, particularly for those who are living in poverty or facing other disadvantages [ 21 ]. The presence of smartphones blurs the boundaries between work and home life, making timing unpredictable, and frequently requiring emotional investment to respond to them [ 21 ]. These findings emphasize the potential negative consequences of excessive screen exposure during early childhood, particularly when screens are present in a child's personal space, such as their bedroom [ 19 ]. This study emphasizes the significance of face-to-face interaction, especially with primary caregivers, in promoting the development of social-emotional competence in young children [ 19 ]. Further research is needed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the connection between screen time and developmental vulnerabilities [ 22 ].

Strategies for managing and reducing screen time in children

Strong evidence shows that parents' awareness-raising and other straightforward actions may significantly lower children's screen time [ 23 ]. Early excessive screen-watching habits seem to follow throughout time and tend to cluster with other harmful lifestyle behaviors including a poor diet and lack of sleep [ 24 ]. The amount of time spent watching television and other forms of screen time among teens decreased only when the intervention included specific elements or activities aimed at reducing it [ 25 ]. Possible additions to interventions include the use of an electronic monitoring device to restrict screen time (which allows users to set time limits for TV, digital versatile disc (DVD), computer, or video game use), the TV Turn-off Challenge (a campaign to turn off the TV for a specified number of days), the conditional use of screens on physical activity, or education via mass or small media (such as newsletters, brochures, or billboards) [ 26 ]. Birth kits distributed to moms by maternity wards should contain information regarding newborns and toddlers seeing screens [ 23 ]. Health visitors should provide new parents with advice and be aware of medical evidence [ 23 ]. Schools should take a stand on how much time kids spend using screens both inside and outside of the classroom and let students and parents know about it [ 23 ].

Role of Parents in Managing Screen Time

Parents sometimes used screen time as a reward but also believed digital technology would have a negative impact on their child’s behavior, social skills, sleep, and physical activity [ 27 ]. Parents have the chance to implement behavioral control in the home as the primary caretakers, frequently through observation and rule-setting [ 27 ]. In fact, treatments designed to enhance common parenting techniques at home have proved effective in raising a child's desirable behavior [ 27 ]. In line with this viewpoint, some research indicates that parents' usage of restrictions regarding the use of technology such as television, cellphones, tablets, and computers is linked to children spending less time on screens (such as television, video games, and computer/internet use) [ 28 ]. Parental controls, which are frequently present in the form of extra settings and password safeguards for different technical devices (such as televisions, laptops, cellphones, etc.), may offer a viable answer to parenting challenges around children's screen time [ 27 ].

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other organizations/studies have indicated that parental restrictions on screen time and the absence of screens in bedrooms both significantly lower screen time [ 29 , 30 ]. Ideal discretionary screen time limits are 0.5-1 hour/day for three to seven-year-olds, one hour for 7-12-year-olds, 1.5 hours for 12-15-year-olds, and two hours for 16+-year-olds. Role modeling is also another crucial element. The amount of screen time parents and kids watch is closely associated; kids who live in homes where watching TV is encouraged (e.g., meals eaten in front of the TV and the TV is on when the child gets home from school) are more likely to engage in binge-watching themselves. If parents watch television for more than four hours every day, their sons and daughters will, respectively, have a 10.5-fold and a three-fold increased likelihood of doing the same [ 31 ].

Conclusions

Excessive screen media usage in children can have both positive and negative impacts on their development. Regarding cognitive development, screens have the potential to enhance education and learning. However, studies have shown that excessive screen time and media multitasking can negatively affect executive functioning, sensorimotor development, and academic outcomes. Early screen exposure has been associated with lower cognitive abilities and academic performance in later years. Language development is also affected by screen time, as it diminishes the quantity and quality of interactions between children and caregivers. Contextual factors such as co-viewing and appropriateness of content play a role in determining the impact on language development. Excessive screen usage can also lead to problems in social-emotional development, including obesity, sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety. It can impair emotional comprehension, promote aggressive behavior, and hinder social and emotional competence.

Parents play a crucial role in managing and reducing screen time by raising awareness, setting boundaries, and providing behavioral controls. Parental limitations and the absence of screens in bedrooms have been found to significantly reduce screen usage. Parents should also set an example by managing their own screen time. Overall, it is important for caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals to understand the potential risks of excessive screen usage and implement strategies to promote healthy development in children, including alternative activities that foster cognitive, linguistic, and social-emotional skills.

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

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Short Essay on Bad Effects of Watching Television

Television, a ubiquitous presence in households worldwide, has long been a source of entertainment, information, and cultural engagement. However, as we immerse ourselves in the visual realm of television, it is essential to critically examine its impact, particularly the adverse effects it can have on individuals and society. This essay explores the detrimental consequences of excessive television watching, shedding light on the potential harm it can inflict on mental, physical, and social well-being.

Quick Overview:

  • Excessive television watching often contributes to a sedentary lifestyle, leading to a lack of physical activity. Prolonged periods of sitting can contribute to health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular problems, and muscular ailments.
  • The passive nature of television consumption, coupled with the allure of binge-watching, can undermine efforts to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
  • Continuous exposure to certain types of content on television, including violence, sensationalism, and distressing news, can negatively impact mental health. It may contribute to heightened anxiety, desensitization, and an overall negative outlook on life.
  • Excessive television watching can also interfere with healthy sleep patterns, leading to sleep disturbances and insomnia, further exacerbating mental health issues.
  • Excessive television watching often translates into reduced productivity, particularly among students and young individuals. Time spent in front of the screen may detract from academic pursuits, leading to lower grades and a diminished focus on educational goals.
  • The seductive allure of television can divert attention away from constructive activities, hindering personal growth and achievement.
  • A significant amount of time spent watching television may contribute to social isolation. Individuals may withdraw from real-life interactions, preferring the virtual world presented on the screen.
  • Prolonged viewing may also impact family dynamics, as shared activities and meaningful conversations give way to solitary screen time. This can lead to strained relationships and a lack of meaningful connections.
  • Television is a powerful medium for advertising and promoting consumerism. Excessive exposure to advertisements may influence individuals to adopt materialistic values, leading to an increased desire for unnecessary goods and services.
  • The bombardment of consumerist messages can contribute to a culture of overconsumption, perpetuating an unsustainable and environmentally harmful lifestyle.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while television undoubtedly offers a plethora of content that entertains, informs, and educates, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential negative effects associated with its overconsumption. Recognizing the adverse impact on physical health, mental well-being, productivity, relationships, and societal values is the first step towards cultivating a mindful and balanced approach to television consumption. As individuals, families, and societies navigate the digital age, a conscious effort to limit screen time, curate content responsibly, and prioritize real-life experiences becomes paramount in fostering a healthier and more fulfilling existence.

Rahul Kumar

Rahul Kumar is a passionate educator, writer, and subject matter expert in the field of education and professional development. As an author on CoursesXpert, Rahul Kumar’s articles cover a wide range of topics, from various courses, educational and career guidance.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Watching TV is bad for children. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons with specific examples to support your answer.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model essay #1:, watching tv is bad for children. do you agree or disagree.

In today's modern society, the impact of television on children has become a topic of debate. Some argue that watching TV is detrimental to children, while others believe it has its benefits. In this essay, I will present reasons why I disagree with the statement that watching TV is bad for children.

Firstly, television programs designed for children often contain educational content that can enhance their learning experience. For example, many children's shows incorporate lessons on numbers, letters, and social skills, which can aid in their cognitive and emotional development. Additionally, documentaries and nature programs can spark a child's curiosity about the world around them, fostering a love for learning and exploration.

Secondly, watching TV can provide children with valuable exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives. Through programs that showcase different traditions, languages, and customs, children can develop a broader understanding of the world and cultivate empathy towards others. This exposure can contribute to the development of open-minded and globally aware individuals in the future.

Furthermore, television can serve as a platform for family bonding and quality time. Watching a family-friendly movie or show together can create opportunities for meaningful discussions and shared experiences. This can strengthen familial relationships and provide a sense of unity and connection within the household.

In conclusion, while excessive and unmonitored TV consumption can have negative effects on children, it is not inherently bad for them. When used in moderation and with parental guidance, television can offer educational, cultural, and social benefits for children. Therefore, I firmly disagree with the notion that watching TV is universally harmful to children.

Model Essay #2:

In today's fast-paced world, the influence of television on children has raised concerns among parents and educators. I firmly agree with the argument that watching TV is detrimental to children, and I will provide specific examples to support this viewpoint.

Firstly, excessive screen time can have adverse effects on a child's physical and mental well-being. Prolonged periods of sitting and staring at a screen can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, putting children at risk of obesity and other health issues. Moreover, exposure to violent or inappropriate content on television can negatively impact a child's emotional development, leading to increased aggression and desensitization to real-life violence.

Secondly, the time spent in front of the TV could be better utilized for more enriching activities. For instance, engaging in outdoor play, reading books, or participating in creative hobbies can contribute to a child's overall development, fostering imagination, critical thinking, and social skills. These activities provide more opportunities for physical exercise, social interaction, and cognitive stimulation compared to passive TV watching.

Furthermore, excessive exposure to advertising and consumerist messages on television can contribute to the development of materialistic and superficial values in children. This can lead to dissatisfaction and unrealistic expectations, as children may strive to emulate the lifestyles and possessions portrayed on TV, rather than focusing on more meaningful pursuits and personal growth.

In conclusion, the negative impact of excessive TV watching on children's health, behavior, and values cannot be overlooked. It is essential for parents and caregivers to limit screen time and encourage alternative activities that promote holistic development. Therefore, I strongly support the argument that watching TV is harmful to children and believe that proactive measures should be taken to mitigate its negative effects.

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Home / Essay Samples / Entertainment / Television / Positive And Negative Effects Of Watching Television

Positive And Negative Effects Of Watching Television

  • Category: Information Science and Technology , Social Issues , Entertainment
  • Topic: Effects of Watching too much TV , Media Influence , Television

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