In many countries, advertisements increasingly target children to promote snacks, toys and other goods. While parents often view these ads as unfair, others believe they provide useful information. This essay will examine both perspectives and present my opinion in the conclusion.
On the one hand, many parents argue that advertisements targeting children are unethical because young audiences are easily influenced. Nowadays, companies and shopkeepers promote their products in highly attractive ways, using colourful visuals and cartoon characters through digital technology. As a result, children are frequently encouraged to buy unhealthy food items such as fast food and processed foods, which can negatively affect their health. For instance, school-going pupils are becoming increasingly dependent on fast food, leading to a significant rise in childhood obesity compared to the past. Moreover, expensive toys and gaming devices, such as PlayStations, are often promoted by film celebrities and social media influencers, prompting children to demand such products that may not be affordable for their families.
On the other hand, supporters of advertising claim that it is useful method of sharing information about products available in the market. Advertisements help individuals stay updated about new goods and bring attention of the target audience. In addition, most countries enforce strict consumer protection laws that prohibit companies from providing false or misleading information. If a brand deceives consumers through inaccurate claims, it may face serious legal penalties and fines. Therefore, when properly regulated, advertising can benefit both businesses and consumers.
In conclusion, advertisements play a vital role in influencing consumer behaviour and promoting public awareness. However, misleading advertising can negatively impact children health and behaviour. For this reason, I personally believe that, stronger regulations should be implemented to ensure that advertisements directed at children are ethical, accurate, and fair.