Seeing their favorite actors or actresses condoning the use of drugs could cause children and teens to become curious and want to try these drugs for themselves. This curiosity may lead to more frequent use and then eventually to addiction. Commercials and advertisements also promote drug and alcohol use by using clever ideas and creativity to appeal to the younger audience which can result in an increase of users.
Another negative effect of television on children and teens is the change in their self-perception and their perception of others. Many of today's actors look and dress a particular way. There are also many commercials that support the idea of weight loss, convincing people of all ages that they should have a certain body shape, and the idea of having clear skin, considering blemishes to be embarrassing (despite the fact that they are completely normal). This can leave teens feeling insecure and as if they have to look a certain way to be accepted among others. In my opinion, its okay if these programs are encouraging youth to live a more healthy lifestyle, however, it becomes an issue when they put themselves and others down because of television corruption. .
Along with weight loss commercials, contradicting commercials that promote the consumption of junk foods and soft drinks also make their appearance. While watching TV, many people indulge in large amounts of unhealthy snacks including chips, sodas, pizzas, and candy. This long-existing bad habit has been a major contribution to the amount overweight and obese children in America. These health problems can carry on into adulthood. Relationships and sex are also depicted on TV. There are many shows that portray promiscuity as acceptable or normal behavior. For teens with very impressionable minds, these shows may leave them feeling as if acting in a sexual way is not only acceptable but expected from them. Such behavior can lead to an increase in the amount of teenage pregnancies if teens are consistently imitating what they watch on television.
