Should Action be Taken to Limit The Influence of the Portrayal of Romantic Behaviour Through Television Media on American Teenagers?

Abstract

This paper discusses why the portrayal of romantic behavior on television most influences American teenagers and calls for a check on the influence of this medium. Grounded within Cultivation Theory, it will show how heavy television viewing will also lead to unrealistic expectations about relationships, disappointment with one's life, and early involvement in sexual behavior among teens. It has been shown that exposure to idealized romantic relationships creates many misrepresentations of real-life dynamics, as most of them have no conflicts, hence misleading the understanding of adolescents on what constitutes a healthy relationship. This distortion is particularly concerning during the critical developmental period from 13-19 years, when teens are especially vulnerable to societal pressures and influences. The paper also discusses how media literacy education is going to help teenagers analyze romantic portrayals critically, reducing the adverse effects of unrealistic expectations. If media-literacy programs were introduced in sixth grade and continue through high school, students will have developed a capacity that enables them to distinguish reality from media portrayal. While there are certainly integration challenges with respect to a new slate of programs like this within already overcrowded curricula, the need for informed media consumption cannot be more vital for the establishment of healthier relationship dynamics among youth. This study most demonstrably calls for action through the creation of educational structure and framework that empowers teenagers with a better and more realistic way to negotiate the pitfalls of romantic relationships, lessening the negative influences of television media.