Q: “My parents gave our son a TV for his room for his 12th birthday. Initially we thought it might be OK since there is no other television in our home, but I see some behavioral issues arising now that weren’t there before. Was this a mistake? And if so, how do I undo it without hurting feelings?”
Joyce: Mistakes in judgment are not always easily erased. Our best hope is to catch the error early before the problem mounts.
Adolescence is a difficult stage. It’s difficult to say whether your son’s behavioral issues would have arisen whether the TV entered the scene or not, but there’s one sure way to find out. Personally, I have never been an advocate of a TV in anyone’s bedroom — neither child nor adult.
Setting aside behavioral issues as well as the obvious issue of not always knowing what your child might be viewing, the American Journal of Preventive Medicine’s study revealed that bedroom TV viewing is related to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and childhood obesity. Further, a New York Times article concluded that “research shows strong associations between TV in the bedroom and numerous health and educational problems.”
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
• He’s the kid. You’re the parent. Exercise your position.
• Wisdom sometimes comes at a high cost. This error in judgment is more easily corrected now than later.
• Mistakes are typically accompanied by regret. You still have time to rejoice rather than regret. I’d run with the “rejoice.”
• Grandparents want only the best for your child as much as you do.
Need family advice?
Change your life … NOW! Write Joyce Oglesby, Family-Life Fix-It Pro, at joyce@JustAskJoyce.com. Check out my books and other resources today at JustAskJoyce.com. Listen to my live talk show Monday through Friday on WFIA 94.7fm/900am at 3pm.
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