The Effects of Television on Children: Relevance and Implications for Schools

Abstract

Since television was introduced in the United States thirty-five years ago, both the public discussions of its effects, and the research that documents those effects, have focused on its potential harm. The im-pacts'of televised violence, commercial advertising, and negative portrayals and stereotyping typify the topics most widely discussed and studied. What television could do for children, and should do for children, to enrich their lives has received far less attention. Its potential educational benefits, for example, have been largely overlooked, or at least have been buried beneath the avalanche of criticism and attack. The Communication on television's harmul effects also is reflected in discussion of possible connections between televisions of possible connectopms between televisions and the schools.