Investigates the nature and extent of violence contained in television programming that targets children aged 12 and younger. Notes that the violence itself is just as likely to be glamorized in children's as in nonchildren's shows, but it is even more sanitized and more likely to be trivialized. Documents five subgenres of children's programming…

Describes a study that examined 48 television stations seeking FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license renewal in 1992 and assesses their efforts to fulfill the programming requirements of the Children's Television Act (CTA) of 1990. Educational programming requirements are explained, and results are reported that indicate inadequate…

Appraises the way in which the broadcasting industry is now promoting toys to children, focusing on structural changes in the broadcasting industry, new ways of financing and distributing programs, aggressive marketing by the toy industry, and the deregulatory climate at the Federal Communications Commission. (MS)

Finds clear patterns of differences in nature and number of commercials during children's programs on three different types of television channels: broadcast networks, independent stations, and cable networks. Examines themes/appeals employed in commercials, disclosures/disclaimers used, and other content attributes. (SR)

This study explores children's understanding of television commercials that feature the same primary characters as those in the adjacent program content, a commercial technique known as "host-selling." Responses of children 4 to 5 and 7 to 8 years of age to identical commercials presented in both a host-selling and normal viewing…

Traces the history and development of the Children's Television Act of 1990 that establishes individual stations' obligations to serve children's needs and limits the amount of advertising. Describes the failure of the marketplace to provide educational programing once children's television was deregulated. Concludes that children's television is…