Is TV Teaching Kids to Be Rude?

The Dark Side Of TV

• TV has the power to teach children dangerous and inhumane acts, explains the University of Michigan Health System. Malicious characters make it crystal clear they don't care about the feelings of others by getting involved in kidnappings, brutal murders and vicious fights. Children who watch negative TV programming may become "programmed" to act in an uncivilized manner, such as showing disrespect toward their parents. A child exposed to rude behavior on the tube may believe that it's ̶0;cool̶1; to make offensive comments, like "You're a loser," to a sibling or friend.

Sociability, Emotions and Empathy

• Watching too much television can stunt a child's ability to develop appropriate social skills and be cognizant of the fact that his actions -- like punching his brother -- come with consequences. Unlike face-to-face contact, the television can̵7;t offer a child advice on how to keep tabs on and manage his moods or feelings, David Perlmutter, neurologist and author of "Power Up Your Brain: The Neuroscience of Enlightenment," explains in a Huffington Post article published in December 2010. Specifically, Perlmutter is referring to emotional intelligence, which includes not only the ability to control and verbalize emotions, but also knowing how to empathize with others.

TV and Attention Problems

• Watching TV from a very young age may be linked to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to UMHS. Interrupting and ignoring -- two obviously rude behaviors -- and saying or doing something before thinking it through are among the possible symptoms of ADHD. It should be noted, however, that the belief in the potential association between TV viewing and ADHD is far from unanimous.

Time Doesn't Necessarily Heal

• Men who frequently watched violent TV programs as kids may grow up to lead less-than-honorable lives, notes the American Psychological Association. Young fans of "shoot 'em up" programs where violence is typically the best solution to a problem appear more likely to physically assault their spouses, partners, and others and have a greater likelihood of being convicted of a crime. Girls who were enthusiasts of very violent TV shows and movies are more likely to express their anger by choking or shoving the source of their rage. Women who grew up watching violent programs are also more likely to have a criminal record, adds the APA.