The Effect of Television on Children a Case Study of Owerri Municipal Council

Abstract

Television is one of the most common forms of media used by children for entertainment, education and information. However excessive and unsupervised television viewing may have both positive and negative effects on children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. This study examines the effects of television on children, with particular attention to how viewing habits influence their academic performance, behaviour, communication skills, sleep patterns, and social interaction.. the study recognizes that educational age appropriate television programme can improve children’s knowledge, language development, creativity and awareness of the world around them. On the other hand, excessive exposure to television may contribute to reduced concentration, poor academic performance, sleep  disturbances, aggressive behaviour and reduced opportunities for family and peer interaction. The study therefore emphasizes of importance of parents supervision, appropriate program selection, and reasonable limits of children’s television viewing. It concludes that television can be beneficial to children when used appropriately, but excessive and uncontrolled exposure may negatively affect their overall development.