Brainstorm for a discursive essay on whether tv is a bad influence on young people today. Make a list of the advantages and disadvantages of television. Consider both sides of the argument. Organise them in pros and cons.

Television is one of the most popular devices that are used for entertainment all over the world. It has become quite common nowadays and almost every household has one television set at their place. In the beginning, we see how it was referred to as the ‘idiot box.’ This was mostly so because back in those days, it was all about entertainment. It did not have as many informative channels as it does now.

Moreover, with this invention, the craze attracted many people to spend all their time watching TV. People started considering it harmful as it attracted the kids the most. In other words, kids spent most of their time watching television and not studying. However, as time passed, the channels of television changed. More and more channels were broadcasting with different specialities. Thus, it gave us knowledge too along with entertainment.

Benefits of Watching Television

The invention of television gave us various benefits. It was helpful in providing the common man with a cheap mode of entertainment. As they are very affordable, everyone can now own a television and get access to entertainment.

In addition, it keeps us updated on the latest happenings of the world. It is now possible to get news from the other corner of the world. Similarly, television also offers educational programs that enhance our knowledge about science and wildlife and more.

Moreover, television also motivates individuals to develop skills. They also have various programs showing speeches of motivational speakers. This pushes people to do better. You can also say that television widens the exposure we get. It increases our knowledge about several sports, national events and more.

While television comes with a lot of benefits, it also has a negative side. Television is corrupting the mind of the youth and we will further discuss how.

How Television is  Harming the Youth

Firstly, we see how television is airing inappropriate content which promotes all types of social evils like violence, eve-teasing and more. Secondly, it is also harmful to our health. If you spend hours in front of the television, your eyesight will get weak. Your posture will cause pain in your neck and back as well.

Additionally, it also makes people addicted. People get addicted to their TVs and avoid social interaction. This impacts their social life as they spend their time in their rooms all alone. This addiction also makes them vulnerable and they take their programs too seriously.

The most dangerous of all is the fake information that circulates on news channels and more. Many media channels are now only promoting the propaganda of the governments and misinforming citizens. This causes a lot of division within the otherwise peaceful community of our country.

Thus, it is extremely important to keep the TV watching in check. Parents must limit the time of their children watching TV and encourage them to indulge in outdoor games. As for the parents, we should not believe everything on TV to be true. We must be the better judge of the situation and act wisely without any influence.
First of all the cons:

- Too much TV makes you lazy. You may become a couch potato. You opt for an easy and often boring life. 

- You may become addicted.

- You will miss out on socialising with your friends. You will miss out on participating in sports groups or activities in your local community.

- Your schoolwork will suffer especially homework done in front of the TV.

- You will have insufficient exercise, and you could put on weight which will lead to obesity and health risks later on.

- You will get a backache or neck ache from bad posture.

- You will get eyestrain from looking at a bright screen.

- You could watch unsuitable – dodgy programs with violence or bad language.

- You will be exposed to fake information and propaganda.


Now the fors:

- TV is a way of relaxing and de-stressing.

- It is free entertainment. You do not have to think as you watch. You save money. 

- There is a wide choice of programs and tv can be educational and teach new skills. 

- It can motivate you because it shows speeches by motivational speakers.

- TV is a way of staying well informed. It increases your knowledge. It is educational.

- You can watch international sports events live. 

- You can learn about new sports.