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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Changes in Attitudes and Behavior
Moral values, commonly accepted beliefs of right and wrong, are reflected in a person's actions. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes repeated viewing of violent television shows changes one's views and increases antisocial attitudes. The American Association for Cancer Research says adolescents who frequently see smoking on television are more likely to smoke.
On the Other: Benefits of Television
Karen Jaffe, of the Family Education Network, says television shows that feature positive relationships between individuals of different ethnicities can promote positive attitudes. Children's school readiness and math skills are greater if they watch educational shows, such as Sesame Street.
Bottom Line
Experts disagree about the long term affects of television. Some argue that changes in attitudes and behavior follow children into the adult years; while others disagree. The U.S. Department of Education recommends parents monitor and limit children's television viewing.
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