Summer vacations are a blessing for children and teenagers as they find much more time to watch TV, play video games and use the internet. It is a worry for the parents as to how check and control their children. In today’s environment, when young minds are already susceptible to be influenced by violent messages, it is a responsibility on our shoulders to protect them. As there is no legislation to prohibit children and adolescents from watching violent content in any form, it is difficult to control. The second issue is that the games and other prohibited videos are easily accessible in markets of Pakistan.
There is no rating system in place and pirated editions are sold at cheaper rates. Children without the knowledge of parents either play games at video shops in the market or buy CDs. Internet is also a source of affecting the minds of children negatively if not utilised appropriately. Parent’s own awareness is of crucial importance. Parent’s can plan to watch TV with children. They can also mark the programmes which can be watched by the children daily or on weekly basis. Parents can also think of alternative activities attractive enough for children to participate in.
Parents can discuss the effects of media violence encouraging children to share their views. They can also monitor behaviour of children and immediately take notice if any symptoms of misbehaviour are evident. Parents should also know that there are facilities of software to block programmes on TV and internet which are not suitable for minors.
Children and adolescents cannot be stopped form viewing or playing but they can be taught to have awareness and to critically think on the effects of such programmes and protect themselves from the negative effects.
ANWAR PERVEEN
Islamabad
