Assume the role of a Developmental Psychologist that is tasked with evaluating a television show for middle childhood (6 to 11 years). For the television show viewed, answer as many of the following questions that apply.
1.Give the title or a brief description of the television program or scene.
- Is the television program designed specifically for middle childhood? Is there a minimum suggested age for the show? Did it intentionally aim at providing any educational message? If so, what was the intended message? If not, what do you think a child would have learned from viewing the show?
- Identify several stimuli (e.g., characters, acoustics, colors, themes) that you think a child would most readily attend to, and explain why.
- How many aggressive or violent acts are in the show? Briefly describe one. Try and explain this scene through the eyes of a child (e.g., what might he or she be thinking or concluding). Did anything occur that you think might promote fear or distress for a young viewer? Why?
- How many prosocial or humorous acts are in the show? Briefly describe one. Try and explain this scene through the eyes of a child (e.g., what might he or she be thinking or concluding).
- Are references made to both males and females? How is each portrayed? Were there any role or cultural stereotypes? Was there any comment, scene, or action that might send a message about social norms or expectations (e.g., discipline, materialism, relationships)?
- Would you let your own child view this television show? Explain why or why not.
Sample Solution