Presidents Message, November 2005:
"Turn Off the Violence"
by Andree Johnson
Can you imagine a day without violence or a day without fear? Celebrated every Fall in communities across North America is "Turn Off the Violence Day". In Minnesota the day was October 13, 2005; in Calgary, Canada the first week in November is devoted to the theme. In Washington DC, a whole week entitled "National TV Turnoff Week" will occur April 24-30, 2006. Why is this so important?
Take a look at a few startling facts. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), kids in the United States watch about 4 hours of TV a day. In fact, many children are exposed to television long before they enter school; on a typical day, 70% of childcare centers use TV. In a year, the average child spends 900 hours in school and nearly 1,023 hours in front of a TV.
By age 18, the average American child will watch 200,000 violent acts on television. Unfortunately, these violent acts are often reenacted in real life. Why? Because violence is often portrayed not only as fun but also as an effective way to get what you want. As the AAP points out, "many violent acts are perpetrated by the "good guys," whom children have been taught to emulate. Even though children are taught by their parents that it's not right to hit, television says it's OK to bite, hit, or kick if you're the good guy. And even the "bad guys" on TV aren't always held responsible or punished for their actions."
Without a doubt, many influences shape our attitudes and behaviors. However, in the electronic media where violence is used so commonly, it often appears as an appropriate means to solve conflicts, demonstrate power, release emotions, and respond to everything from sexual desire to boredom. As school counselors, we have an opportunity to teach children more appropriate ways of dealing with these challenges.
Consider "Turn off the Violence" as a theme in your school, your community and your home. For one day, or even a week, turn off violent television, music, and video games; practice healthy ways to resolve conflict; teach appropriate methods to deal with anger; and promote respect for all people. As school counselors we can make a difference in our school and community. For more information visit www.aap.org, www.adbusters.org, www.tvturnoff.org, and www.turnofftheviolence.org.