In-depth studies have found that violent programming, including cartoons, can have a negative impact upon children. Viewing violence can:

desensitize a child toward violent acts;
decrease a child's sensitivity toward victims;
increase a child's fearfulness;
contribute to a child’s aggressive behavior;
teach that violent acts lead to success;
decrease imaginative and cooperative play;
increase acceptance of gang behavior;
undermine the development of humane social values.

So, what can parents do to protect their child?

Be a positive example and use good judgment concerning the selection of television programs and movies to be viewed. Consider the child’s developmental level and encourage the selection of worthwhile programs such as those on public television. Decide together which programs to watch. Record programs so that viewing may be done together and the tape may be paused for discussion. Comment when you agree with the values portrayed by the actors. Check out quality program videos at your local library.

Watch television with your child. Explain the difference between fact and fiction. If fighting occurs, comment that although the actors are pretending to be hurt, such violent acts in real life result in pain and suffering. Discuss ways to deal with problems other than by hurting people.

Turn the television and other objectionable media off when the material is contradictory to your family values. Explain to your child why you disapprove. Consider using a television lockout device to prevent exposure to “adult” programming. Provide soft music or silence during family meals that contribute to friendly conversation. Furnish a calm place where your child can relax or read.

Resist the temptation to put a television in your child’s room. Instead locate it where viewing can be monitored. If your family is on the internet, keep the computer in a central location.

Encourage your child to become involved in activities. Foster participation in hobbies, imaginative play, music, art, crafts, gardening, household tasks, yard work, cooking, and other worthwhile projects. Invite your child’s friends to play at your home or apartment. Do more reading, walking, talking, listening, and playing together. Take trips to libraries, museums, zoos, farms, fairs, and other interesting places. Involve your child in programs that promote healthy development like sports, scouts, clubs, camps, and/or religious groups.

Be an advocate for quality television programming. Join forces with other parents and teachers to set television viewing guidelines. Write television officials, corporate sponsors, government regulatory agencies, and congressional leaders to express your views.

Author's Bio: 

Leah Davies is an author, child advocate and educational consultant living in Bend, Oregon. Over the past thirty years, she has been a teacher, counselor, consultant, director of prevention services for a mental health agency, and instructor of college students.

Ms. Davies is author of the character-building Kelly Bear books, videos, CD-ROMS, songs, and violence/drug use prevention curriculum. The materials enhance communication and bonding between adults and children ages three to nine. These valuable tools help children to understand themselves and others, develop social competence, become motivated and responsible, learn decision-making skills, and make healthy living choices.

Over 250,000 Kelly Bear books are used in schools, agencies, and homes worldwide. The Kelly Bear video on "Secret Touching" won first place in the 1999 National Council on Family Relations Annual Media Awards.

She has presented seminars at numerous regional and national professional conferences including the American Counseling Association, the Association for Childhood Education International and the National School-Age Care Alliance.

Leah's articles have appeared in The School Counselor, Early Childhood News, Elementary School Guidance and Counseling, and the National Head Start Association Journal. She received her Master's Degree from the Department of Counseling and Counseling Psychology at Auburn University.