Impact of Television and Movies on Our Lives

1. Like computers, televisions (TV) and movies are among the millions of technological innovations invented by entrepreneurs and scientists to ease and to add comfort to our lives. No matter what status we have in society and what profession we hold, we are fond of watching television programs and movies to entertain and to relieve stress caused by busy and hectic schedules we have at home, at school and at the office.

   Aside from computers and cellular phones, movies and television become a way of life for everyone. Not a single day that we failed to watch our favorite television programs, concerts, news and many more. We go to movie theaters not only to bond with friends, family members and colleagues, but also to watch the latest movies starred by our favorite actors and actresses and to entertain ourselves.

   Because of the effects of economic crisis, everyone think twice before deciding to go to theaters and watch movies. Instead of finding themselves rushing to watch a new movie release, they prefer to stay home and watch their favorite television programs instead. Because of recession, not all individuals have spare money allotted for entertainment. Even though going to movies is not an expensive form of bonding and entertainment for the entire family, the cost of tickets and food add up and becomes a huge expense to consider. Majority of families prefer to utilize their cable connection, instead of watching movies at theaters. You can also opt to renting DVD or CD to watch several movies at home along with your family.

   Due to the technological innovations, several types and sizes of televisions emerged in the market, ranging from semi-flat television, flat television, liquid plasma televisions, glass televisions and touch screen television. Just choose what type of television suit your budget, needs, lifestyle and way of life.

   Despite its efficacy of providing informative data and quality information to both children and adults alike, it can also be detrimental to your children if films are not properly selected.

   Things to consider:
   

   • Parents should choose films that are free of violence and brutality because it can influence their behavior and they may behave aggressively towards others.
   • Before selecting or buying DVD or CD, read reviews and ask referrals from friends, relatives and colleagues. Watch these movies first before allowing your children to watch them.
   • Check movie ratings. If it is for general audience (GP), it is appropriate for your children. If parental guidance (PG) is suggested, it may contain violence, nudity or sexual references and should be avoided. If PG-13, it may contain profane languages, violence, nudity and possible drug use, thus parents are strongly cautioned not to let their children watch this type of movie. If restricted ( R ), it may contain male or female nudity, sex, violence, drug use. If rated no one under age 17 (NC-17), it may contain sex scenes, excessive violence and profane language.