National Crime Prevention Council

Parents can and should prevent their children from being exposed to media violence, according to the following viewpoint by the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC). The violence found in television shows, computer and video games, radio broadcasts, and other media poses a threat to young people, the NCPC maintains. It urges that parents closely examine what their children are watching and restrict their exposure to violent programming. The organization also provides suggestions on how parents can influence their children’s viewing habits and encourage alternative activities to watching television and movies. The NCPC is a private, nonprofit association that provides schools and the public with educational resources on crime prevention.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What questions should parents ask about the television shows...