Much has been said about violence and the media, but media in general is causing extensive health problems for our nation, too. A parenting Web site notes, "Children who consistently spend more than 4 hours per day watching TV are more likely to be overweight. Kids who view violent acts are more likely to show aggressive behavior but also fear that the world is scary and that something bad will happen to them" (Editors, 2010). Most everyone knows that obesity is a substantial problem facing the nation, and childhood obesity is growing dramatically, as well. The sedentary behavior of watching television and playing video games only contributes to this problem, as does the nation's obsession with fast food and processed food. Interestingly enough, the media is rampant with fast food and junk food advertising, and the children watching these ads clamor for the latest junk foods, so while children are sedentary while they watch the media, they also soak up advertising, which can be just another problem for the health and well being of these future generations.

Many may not think violence in the media is that pervasive, but studies indicate it occurs much more than many people think. The parenting editors continue, "The average American child will witness 200,000 violent acts on television by age 18. Kids may become desensitized to violence and more aggressive" (Editors, 2010). The startling number is the sheer amount of violence children can witness over time. It is no wonder they become desensitized to violence. It means nothing to them in their everyday lives, and it could be another reason activities like bullying and physical violence is up in the schools. Children see characters on television "rewarded" for their violence, from taking out the bad guys to violence in sports and other activities, and because many of these characters become their heroes, they emulate their violent behavior to be more like them. Children do not innately understand that violence is bad, and with the prevalence of violence in the media today, it is often seen as a desirable behavior. Again, it is the parents' responsibility to teach...

More than that, it is their responsibility to ensure that this type of media is not allowed in the house, especially for very young children.
Of course, there are many positive aspects to children learning to use the various media in the home. Technology is extremely important in today's education, careers, and life in general. When children learn how to use computers at a young age, they become more open to technology and they understand it better, and that can only help them later in life. A Web site that specializes in media and the family notes, "Video game playing introduces children to computer and information technology. Games can give practice in following directions. Some games provide practice in problem solving and logic" (Editors, 2009). In addition, young children benefit from the many educational programs geared to their learning groups, and shows such as Sesame Street have been helping educate and enlighten children for decades. Not all media is bad for children, but parents have to use how to use it and monitor it effectively to gain the greatest benefit for their children and their children's future.

In conclusion, most studies agree that violence in the media leads to violent behavior in young people. More disturbing, early aggressive behavior can lead to violence and aggression in adults. It can also lead to health problems in everything from obesity to diabetes and heart disease. Violence in the media needs to be controlled, and parents must step up and take the responsibility for monitoring their children and their interaction with violence.