Violence begets violence; Sexually explicit shows begets sexually explicit behavior - pretty simple, right?
Wednesday November 12, 2008
A study from the RAND research organization, points to exposure to some forms of sexually explicit entertainment as one of the contributing factors to teen pregnancy. A further study ‘added to existing evidence that youths who play violent video games -- a worldwide trend with American children averaging 13 hours of video gaming a week -- led to increased physically aggressive behavior.’
I know parents have heard the saying: garbage in, garbage out. But it is difficult when garbage is all that is offered. Here are three things you can do today:
- Monitor what your teen is watching and playing, offer alternatives to television or violent video games.
- Teach your teen to be media literate.
- Work with your teen on his/her body image, self-esteem and self-confidence.
What do you think? Share your thoughts, tips and family stories in our comments area.
I am not running to let my daughter watch Sex and the City (besides not sure she wants to), but when certain things come up on TV, I use them as a chance to talk. I don’t think teens need to watch all about other peoples sex lives (I don’t think I do either), but if a scene appears we discuss it rather then run from it, was it appropriate behavior, should you just give in, etc. It helps sometimes cause there is a starting point to the conversation. But I definitely think certain things are over the top for sure and teens should be steered in other directions, but if you can’t, use it for discussion of you don’t think that is appropriate behavior etc…