If a portrayal is upsetting, simply turn off the television and discuss your reason for doing so with your child. Television program guides can be used to plan and discuss viewing with your child. A VCR is useful for screening programs, building a video library for children, pausing to discuss points, and fast-forwarding through commercials. Encourage children to be critical of messages they encounter when watching television. Talking about TV violence gives children alternative ways to think about it.
Parents can point out differences between fantasy and reality in depictions of violence.
They can also help children understand that in real life, violence is not funny. Discussion of issues underlying what is on the screen can help children to become critical viewers. Of Power Rangers and V-chips. The impact of televised violence. Testimony on behalf of the American Psychological Association before the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs, Congressional Record, June 18, 1992.