Children, adolescents, and television.

The influence of television on children has been of concern to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for a number of years. Two academy task forces during the past 15 years have addressed specifically television's relationship to children's learning and behavior. Violence portrayed in programming and cigarette advertising have been highlighted as major concerns. No ongoing recommendations have been implemented. Because of an increased public awareness and concern about the overall pervasiveness of children's television viewing, as well as the effect of specific programming, numerous groups have addressed these issues. Some are active "watchdogs" and lobbying organizations that publicize each concern and seek legislative restrictions on what can and should be televised. Action for Children's Television falls into this category. Other organizations link the producers, writers, and directors with the industry networks, public broadcasting system, and cable networks to plan educational efforts to improve television programs. The National Council on