The informal education of the media and the protection of minors from violence on television: a history of failure

Abstract

Recent studies show a worrying complacency of chil dren and Young people with the use of violence as a practice to get their wishes. Saving the debate and disagreement among researchers about
the nature of the influence of television, we assume the perspective that, in any case, the issue of the impact and treatment of television content is a civic issue, not merely scientific. No doubt television, with its formidable resources, is a powerful educational agent, and children and adolescents are large consumers of this medium. Along with this, a history of repeated and persistent violations by broadcasters of their self-commitments and regulations in communication and protection of minors regarding the issuance of inappropriate content for training in child protection schedules are factors that seem unrelated to this scenario. A television violence that is absent of pain and consequences, justifiable and attractive features favors its imitation and influence. These are old allegations of extremely important educational and social issues that don’t seem to deserve the attention of agents responsible for the protection and education of children and adolescents. Teachers, parents, associations of viewers, media companies, government and society in general must address their commitment from their fields of
competence.