Discusses the continuing debate about the effects of televised violence on viewers, particularly children, in terms of aggressive behavior. The two opposing views, the psychologistic and the relational, are each supported by research which, in turn, affects the use of censorship. (JMF)

Reviews research and data regarding the effects of television violence on viewers, especially children. (GC)

Replies to Paul Hirsch's rejoinder to Gerbner et al's findings on cultivation analysis. (See EJ 240 175-177.) Addresses the use of the National Opinion Research Center/ General Social Surveys. Concludes that Hirsch's appraisal of cultivation theory and his reasons for rejecting the concepts of mainstreaming and resonance are unwarranted and…

Examines the statistical evidence presented by George Gerbner and his colleagues to support the assertion that television viewing cultivates distorted perceptions of the world. Points out discrepancies in the items, samples, and coding categories employed and concludes that the cultivation hypothesis lacks empirical support. (JMF)

A study of 240 TV viewers who watched or listened to and watched news stories showed highly significant differences in their recorded perceptions of the information. The spoken narrative was responsible for the perception of violence in the stories. Discussion of the results also touches on the subject of verbal violence. (14 references) (CP)

Discusses two still unfolding scenarios in the history of television--Surgeon General's inquiry into influence of television violence, and the campaign by health authorities against cigarette smoking--and questions whether there is something to be learned from these experiences in relation to banning television advertising of alcoholic beverages.…

Questions the basic approach and findings of the Gerbner et al.'s study of the effects of television viewing on viewers' feelings of fear, suspicion, and alienation. Demonstrates that the cultivation effect is not supported by the data and outlines three plausible explanations for the absence of cultivation effects. (JMF)

Compares the influence of television news on the reactions of 100 Blacks in both Georgia and Iowa to the Atlanta slayings. People surveyed were examined for their reactions to live coverage, newsmaker interviews, wire service reports, and news writers and researchers. Eight references are listed. (MER)

Defends the theory of cultivation effects of television viewing on audiences against the criticism of Paul Hirsch. Contends that the data is broad-based and that the framework of mainstreaming and resonance shows systematic and consistent patterns within subgroups. (See CS 705 469 and CS 705 539.) (JMF)

This booklet highlights the results of research findings on the impact of television on children and provides advice for parents on why and how they can exercise some moderating influence on television's impact. The issues covered include the effect of the amount of time children spend watching television, the impact on children of televised…

Ways in which broadcasters can use television research data to promote children's learning are suggested under five headings: cognitive (reading, comprehension, imagination); social and emotional (sharing, sex); violence, aggressions, fears; family roles and attitudes; health issues (alcohol, nutrition, drugs). Information sources for television…

A review of recent studies on the effects of television viewing on behavior indicates that television has significantly influenced cognitive and affective child development, social behavior, social relationships, and health attitudes and practices. Researchers and the television industry must collaborate to maximize television's positive effects.…

This paper discusses the controversy that has traditionally surrounded the issue of capital punishment. When a Texas television reporter sought permission to televise the execution of a convicted murderer by lethal injection in 1983, arguments were advanced both for and against televising executions. A recent poll shows that 84% of Americans…

This second article in a series on the relationship between television and children summarizes shortcomings of studies of effects based on traditional psychology. Other approaches to study of television and children using sociological ideas are explored, focusing on what children do to, and with, television as active viewers. (MBR)

This paper examines the dominant genre of the last American television season--the action/adventure/law enforcement show--and discusses differences between this genre and television shows in the 1950s to 1970s. Today's programs are described in terms of the similarities they exhibit with the strategies of the New Right and the apparent…