By Leta Hong Fincher
Washington
27 June 2007
 

With studies showing that a growing number of children are exposed to graphic violence on television, U.S. lawmakers are considering tighter regulations on media content. But the effort faces opposition from entertainment executives and free speech advocates. VOA's Leta Hong Fincher reports on a Senate hearing to examine the impact of media violence on children.

Winter testified at a Senate hearing on the effect of violent television images on America's children. He said the evidence is strong that children exposed to television violence are more aggressive and show a greater propensity for violence in later life.

Senator John Rockefeller

Peter Liguori

First Amendment expert Laurence Tribe of Harvard Law School argues that the government should not be given the power to decide what depictions of violence are suitable. "In the long run, it is not in the interests of my children, my grandchildren or the children or grandchildren of this or of any other generation, that we sacrifice free speech on the altar of protecting children."

Entertainment industry advocates say parents can use TV content ratings or technology to block programs with inappropriate content. But recent studies found that many parents are confused by the technology and TV ratings.