Gerald Jones, author of Violent Media is Good For Kids, believes that “sheltering a child from “violence” is okay. Jones, a comic book author and screenwriter states, comics, which involved violence, was good for him. He also mentions success stories, which involve young children watching “violent” television shows such as, “Sailor Moon” and how these shows help the children through a family crisis. While Jones has valid points, I disagree. I believe that some of these facts could be true; it really depends on the child and how you explain things to them.
Gerald Jones’ tone seems very easy going. He isn’t just giving straight facts; he is slowly trying to convince the reader that violent media is good. I think this type of tone is good because most people have a very strong opinion about this topic and trying to be easy going is a good way to keep people reading. Also, he states that after hearing about “psychologists insisting that violent stores are harmful to kids…. That’s when I started the research”, he decides to do research on the opposing side. Jones does realize that violent entertainment can be harmful, but he does say that it can help children in desperate need. He states that it can help children who are going through hard times such as the divorce of their parents.
I disagree with Jones because I believe that a child viewing violence depends on the child. Watching cartoons may be harmless as long as the child understands that what they see isn’t real. However, watching movies that are rated R and is not meant for children shouldn’t be shown to them. Jones also mentions a child’s craving to play with imaginary guns. Guns should not be something that children should pretend with. Guns are something that is usually seen as a weapon that hurts people, and children should not associate guns with killing.
Jones brings up many good points throughout his article. To some extent I agree with him, some forms of violent media is harmless for children. However, the types of media most children see is not acceptable for their age and should not be shown to children.
I also disagree with the author's argument. Some movies and TV shows may be harmful to the kid and their childhood, but it also depends on the child who is watching. From my own personal experience, I have babysat kids who watch adult TV shows with their parents, or even just for fun. I have never seen the show affect their personality or behavior in a negative way. This is why my opinion on violent media differs because, like Elaine stated, it depends on the child who is watching the program or movie, how it effects them.
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