Band 5+: Children are now watching more television than they have ever done before. What are some of the negative effects of children watching a lot of television? Do you think young children should be allowed to watch television?

Since the advent of television, more and more children have spent a great amount of time watching TV. I would argue that although they should be permitted to being exposed by media for educational purpose, there are plethoras of drawbacks such as adverse effects on their health and less time for reading.

One major disadvantage of TV is that it would affect their physical well-being. For example, if pupils spend too much time in front of TV, it could cause severe eye strain. A study shows that there is a co-relation in between the time they spend for TV and reduced eye vision. As a consequence, the longer they consume their time for TV, the worse their eye condition it gets. Furthermore, it would also creates another serious problem- obesity. This is because on average, young generation spend at least 3 to 4 hours for watching online animes and TV programs. They no longer spend significant amount of time for physical activities like sports, camping outside. Consequently, it would lead to lack of exercise and ultimately, when they become an adult, they might have diabetes or gain too much over weight.

Another drawback is that they spend less time reading books. Reading skill is vital for their academic success as it will develop not only a reading skill but also enhance creativity and imagination. Since TV do not create face-to-face interaction, it doesn’t contribute their ability which is of paramount importance.

By contrast, TV has benefits which they can use for educational purpose. TV is one of the fastest media they we can depend on, they will become knowledgeable after watching world news or history TV programs. When they engage in discussions or asked their opinion, they can utilize online media to further expend their knowledge or even compare opinions from others on TV. Therefore, they should be accepted to watch TV as it would be useful for them to enhance their study.

In conclusion, TV has negative sides such as declined physical well-being and less reading time, but it is acceptable for them to watch TV for studying.