TV‐VIOLENCE EFFECTS: EXCEPTIONALLY VULNERABLE VIEWERS?

Abstract

From time to time, studies of links between youngsters’ television viewing habits and their social behaviour suggest pointers which may help identify those prone to ill‐effects from exposure to television programming.

This article refers to some of this research, before linking these pointers to the viewing habits of exceptional children (especially those with significant difficulties in their social and emotional behaviour). The article then makes cursory reference to initiatives designed to help safeguard young viewers from deleterious effects of television‐viewing.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Tony Charlton

Professor Tony Charlton is Professor of Behaviour Studies at Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education. His research interests rest within the broad domain of emotional and behaviour difficulties. His more recent preoccupations with television effects upon social behaviour can have important links with such difficulties.

Barrie Gunter

Barrie Gunter is Professor of Journalism Studies and Director of Research in the Department of Journalism Studies, University of Sheffield. His research interests concern the role of television in children's lives as a source of education and learning, with special reference to its impact on their emotional development and social behaviour.