media influence
Media Modeling: Setting an Example for our Teens
Ahhh, technology. Isn't it assuring, in this age of menacing media, that V-chips and Internet filters can help us monitor our teens? These programs don't solve everything, of course – but they do provide some parameters for kids.
Regrettably, some of us may lack mechanisms to help us set boundaries for ourselves.
It's important that we talk to teens about dangerous behaviors and choices. But ultimately, talk is cheap. They're still watching us to see what we're doing.
If only we had the technology to help us be better role models! Here are a few tools that someone should invent to aid us with our media consumption:
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The Screen Time Scanner: a program that would track our media time and reveal the reasons for our media usage
Sometimes media use is more of a bad habit than entertainment. Take TV, for example. A Kaiser Family Foundation study indicates that 42% of families surveyed have TV on in the background even when no one is watching. When we're bored or struggling with life issues, it's often easier to lose ourselves in movies, television, the Web rather than address the problem.
Because the Screen Time Scanner doesn't exist, consider setting some limits for yourself. Think of alternate activities, like learning an instrument or taking a class. Start a family game night.
Key Verses:
- Ephesians 5:16 (NLT): Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days.
- Proverbs 31:27 (NIV): (said of the godly woman) She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
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The Content Clarifier: a machine that could tell us what God is thinking about everything we view or read
Isn't it interesting how the older we get, the more trash we're allowed to absorb? Common Sense Media suggests that children ages 5-7 should not be exposed to TV or movie profanity. However, children 8-10 can have "mild" profanity like h--- and d--n, while 11-12 year olds can graduate to body-part profanity like a-- and b--bs. And those lucky 13-17 year olds are ready for words like p--s, the s-word and Christ's name in vain. Admittedly, some media is better suited for adults than kids because of its subject matter. But let's be honest: Some of it just isn't good for anybody.
Alas. No one has invented a Content Clarifier. So pray for wisdom and scrutinize content. Don't be afraid to solicit accountability from a friend or spouse.
Key Verses:
- I Corinthians 6:12 NIV "Everything is permissible for me" – but not everything is beneficial.
- Romans 12:2 NLT Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do…
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The Materialism Monitor: a device that would warn us when ads or commercials were putting us at risk for personal discontentment, impulse buying or debt accumulation
We'd like to think we're immune to the lure of commercials – but the consumer debt in our nation tells another story. Ads don't really sell products, after all. They sell lifestyles. They present a picture of success, luxury and happiness, and urge us to buy in. Today, advertisers increasingly target teens. College students constantly receive credit card applications. That makes our model of financial behavior more critical than ever.
In lieu of Materialism Monitors, examine your desires and spending habits. Then practice gratitude. From a monetary standpoint, even this country's poorest rank in the top 5% of the world's wealthiest people!
Key Verses:
- Matthew 6:24 (NIV): You cannot serve both God and money.
- Hebrews 13:5 (NLT): Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have.
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The Reality Regulator: a gadget that would indicate – in percentages – how much more desensitized we've become to sensuality, addiction, etc. with each media usage.
Filmmaker Morgan Spurlock went on an all-McDonald's diet. His documentary, SuperSize Me, follows his journey through rapid weight gain, skyrocketing blood pressure and cholesterol – even depression and sexual dysfunction. Spurlock's experiment provides a stark illustration of how what we take in can rapidly impair our mind and body. Although Spurlock evaluated his transformation regularly, most of us can't track the incremental impact of watching a sex scene or bloody shoot-out. We can't pinpoint where we started accepting that casual sex isn't dangerous or that binge drinking is harmless fun. Bit by bit, we let media moguls alter our views of what is morally acceptable.
Without a Reality Regulator, we must be proactive. Don't waste time with "questionable" shows. Don't surf the "not quite porn" sites, thinking you're dodging a bullet.
Key verses:
- I Peter 5:8 (NIV): Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
- Philippians 4:8 (NIV): Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.
Background Information
How Violent Media Affects the Brain
New research cements a link between violent video games and increased levels of violence in teens
The Power of the Media
It's hard to deny that music and visual images have tremendous sticking power. But do those lingering sensations really make a difference?
When Life Imitates Art
We need to be very careful about what we allow ourselves to watch and listen to. Examples of others who didn't make wise choices are numerous, and some of them are frightening.
Questions and Answers
I'm troubled by some of the CDs showing up in our home. How do we set a music standard for our 13-year-old daughter?
Answer
What are the long-term consequences when children watch violent and sexual content on television?
Answer
What is your opinion of video games?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Guiding Your Teen Through the Media Landmines
My teenage son and I are catching on to a few new lessons: the importance of trusting God and why some movies and music lyrics are not acceptable.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Where is God in the Midst of All My Troubles?
So many cry out to Him in times of need, but is God really listening? And, more important, does He care?
Related Topics
Relationships: Blended Families, Parents and Adult Children
Transitions: Preparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest
