Overly sexualized TV does influence kids

By The Journal Times Editorial Board

Tuesday, November 11, 2008 5:57 PM CST

Teenager see, teenager do.

For years, Hollywood’s critics have wagged their fingers at television programmers for setting a bad example. Overly sexualized TV shows are influencing kids’ behavior, they warn. Now there’s some scientific evidence to indicate those aren’t just prudish, empty fears.

Girls who watch a bunch of programs with sexual behavior and talk are the most likely to become pregnant, according to a study by Rand Corp. Boys in that category were more likely to impregnate a girl, as well.

The study’s lead author defended the findings in an online chat with Washington Post readers.

“We acknowledge that there are many factors that contribute to the risk of a teen pregnancy, but our findings suggest that even after accounting for these other factors, TV plays some role,” Anita Chandra wrote.

One look at recent Nielsen ratings tells us shows don’t necessarily need to be racy to be successful. “Dancing With the Stars” and “60 Minutes” joined a handful of sporting events in the top 10.

Of course, at this point in the television medium’s evolution, there probably isn’t enough outrage to force network executives to snip the steamier scenes from “Desperate Housewives.” The fight for change could come on other fronts.

One possible problem Chandra raised is that TV portrays only the care-free aspects of sex. Children are rarely shown the risks and responsibilities. There are story lines to be had with that theme.

Viewers saw Ross and Rachel become parents on “Friends,” but then saw little of the baby afterward. If teens saw how much an unplanned pregnancy changes people’s lives, they might hold back — or at least have protected sex.

Parents have a starring role in this, too. They, not “Grey’s Anatomy,” need to be the first and most authoritative voice kids hear on the subject of sex.

Moms and dads should also monitor what their sons and daughters are watching. Just because a show is geared toward teens doesn’t mean its content is healthy for them.

At the same time, it’s irresponsible for producers to infinitely go on pushing the envelope further and hiding behind the “turn it off if you don’t like it” defense. After a lengthy decline, the national teen pregnancy rate has begun to creep back up.

When the news comes from the doctor, it doesn’t come backed up by a laugh track.

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