What Should Parents Do About 'Unsuitable' TV Shows?

'Is there any way forward? I don't want to destroy my relationship with my kids, so I don't know what to do.'

We were sitting in the school's Guidance office and the mother was becoming more and more intense. She wanted an answer, but could find none.

She enjoyed attending her church and had considered speaking to the minister, but because of the nature of this problem, had decided against it.

In a way it was he who had prompted the dilemma. On Sunday he had preached about the demoralising influence of many current TV shows, especially the 'soaps' in which a less than uplifting lifestyle was promoted: indulgence in crime, lying, cheating, adultery - you name it!

So what was a Mum to do? Everyone seemed to be watching these shows, especially the kids. And if she were to turn the TV off, the kids would probably go elsewhere and she wouldn't know what they were watching.

And being heavy-handed about it was sure to cause disruption and a breakdown in good relationships. What on earth could she do?

This 'moral dilemma' is one that faces all parents in some form or other: how do you stop your kids watching certain TV shows/viewing unsuitable DVDs/taking alcohol or drugs when 'everyone else is doing it? (You can replace the specific 'moral dilemma' with one that affects your family!)

On this occasion, we'll use the TV programmes as an example.

It may surprise you, but I don't believe the extreme approach -'Not in my house!' - will be the most effective.

Believe me, this isn't a case of turning a 'blind eye' in order to avoid conflict and have a peaceful home life.

There's no denying the fact that these influences are ever-present, so we must take action. But what can we do?

Well, let's train our kids to think for themselves and consider the values we want them to have. After all, we can't be with them all the time. We can't make them do something, especially if we're not there.

Far better, then, to train them to have high standards.

This can happen by talking about what goes on in these shows.

If a show is downright evil or immoral, then definitely let's keep it out of our homes. But for the majority that portray a lifestyle or behaviour we take issue with, then let's view them (with our kids if possible) and have the confidence to open up a discussion about what is being portrayed.

The questions raised will usually involve attacks on family life, a lack of mutual respect, a questioning of or outright disrespect for society and its values.

Let the children have their say, then, without bullying or losing your cool, state your views in a calm, assertive manner. Leave them in no doubt there are better options!

In this way you expose them to higher ideals and teach them to be more discerning. If they witness strong leadership from you, they will be more likely to follow. So when they are away and you have no direct control, you can be confident you will have influenced their responses.

Happy parenting!

Article Source: http://www.articleselections.com

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