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Children are avid viewers of various cartoons, ranging from classics like Tom and Jerry and Mickey Mouse to contemporary favorites like SpongeBob. Many parents acknowledge the ubiquitous appeal of cartoons for children, but the debate on whether these animated shows have a positive or negative impact on youngsters continues. While some argue that cartoons in the past, particularly during the Soviet Union era, were kinder and more benign, others, especially the younger generation, contend that modern cartoons are harmless. This essay explores the influence of cartoons on children, examining both the potential educational benefits and the concerns surrounding violent content.
Research conducted by Robin Close on behalf of the National Literacy Trust indicates that for children aged two to five, good-quality educational television can have a positive impact on attention and comprehension, receptive vocabulary, some expressive language, letter-sound knowledge, and knowledge of narrative and storytelling (Close, 2004). This suggests that, despite the ongoing debate, there are educational merits associated with certain cartoons that can contribute positively to a child's cognitive development.
One recurring concern among critics is the prevalence of violent acts in cartoons and their potential impact on children's mental and psychological well-being.
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Contrary to the perception that cartoons are colorful and harmless, studies indicate that exposure to violent content in cartoons can contribute to mental health issues in children. For instance, the classic cartoon "Tom and Jerry" portrays constant attempts by Tom to harm Jerry, often resulting in injury to the aggressor. Research suggests that boys may be more susceptible to the effects of violent cartoons than girls (Effects, 2011).
Moreover, the addictive nature of cartoons exacerbates the issue.
Children, starting as early as the age of two, develop a dependency on cartoons, dedicating increasing amounts of time to this form of entertainment. This addiction, particularly to violent content, can have a lasting impact on a child's cognitive development. It is essential for adults to recognize that exposure to violent cartoons may contribute to the development of mental and psychological disorders in children.
Parents, educators, and policymakers must address the potential consequences of prolonged exposure to violent cartoons. Comprehensive studies examining the long-term effects on children's mental health and behavior are essential for informing strategies to mitigate potential harm.
Another significant concern is the inability of children to distinguish between reality and fiction, leading them to imitate actions portrayed in cartoons. Many animated shows depict characters engaging in physically challenging activities without consequences, creating an unrealistic perception of real-life risks. For example, characters jumping from high buildings without injury can mislead children into attempting similar feats, resulting in injuries or even fatalities. Research by Choma et al. (2004) reveals a direct correlation between the hours of TV viewed per day and the increased risk of injury in children (Choma et al., 2004).
The three major effects of television on children, as identified by Choma et al. (2004), include desensitization to the pain of others, a diminished fear of violence, and an increased likelihood of aggressive behavior (Choma et al., 2004). This highlights the potential dangers of children emulating violent actions depicted in cartoons, posing a threat to their well-being and the well-being of others.
Efforts to address this concern should involve collaboration between media producers, educators, and parents. Media literacy programs that teach children to critically analyze and understand the distinction between fictional content and real-life consequences can be instrumental in fostering responsible viewing habits.
Furthermore, excessive exposure to cartoons, especially those lacking educational value, may hinder the development of children's social and communication skills. A growing body of professional opinions suggests that an increasing number of children experience difficulties in communication. The ability to communicate verbally is fundamental to social and emotional well-being, yet children who struggle with communication often face behavioral challenges due to their frustration in expressing needs and participating in social exchanges (Choma et al., 2004).
Contrastingly, there is a positive aspect to cartoons that focus on education and moral lessons. Educational cartoon characters provide a platform for children to express their feelings and learn new things. Children, through watching educational cartoons, enhance their speaking skills as they imitate their favorite characters. This early exposure to language development can be advantageous as children carry these skills into their formal education.
Parents and educators must actively engage with children during their cartoon viewing experiences. This interaction can help reinforce positive communication skills and encourage children to express themselves verbally rather than relying solely on the visual stimuli provided by cartoons.
It is crucial for parents to recognize the potential impact of cartoons on their children's social and communication skills and actively choose shows that contribute positively to their development.
In conclusion, the debate over the influence of cartoons on children remains a complex and multifaceted issue. While concerns about the violence depicted in modern cartoons and its potential impact on mental health are valid, it is essential to acknowledge the positive contributions that educational cartoons can make to a child's development. Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their children's viewing habits and should strive to provide a balanced and enriching media environment. As the future generation, children need guidance to navigate the vast landscape of cartoons, ensuring a healthy and constructive impact on their lives.
Ultimately, the key lies in striking a balance between entertainment and education, fostering an environment where children can enjoy cartoons responsibly while reaping the cognitive and developmental benefits they offer.
The Impact of Cartoons on Children: Educational and Violent Influences. (2016, Apr 12). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/influences-of-cartoons-on-children-essay
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