Predictors of Parents’ Use of the V-Chip and Perceptions of Television Ratings Utility: The Role of Family Characteristics and the Home Media Environment

• In Event: Cutting Edge Research on Parental Mediation of their Children's Media Use

Abstract

The US television ratings system includes a series of age- and content-based codes, and has faced criticism in the 17 years of its tenure. Prior research also indicates low knowledge and use of the V-chip, a device that blocks programming using the ratings. This study sought to examine modern parents’ awareness and perceptions of the TV ratings, as well as their use of the V-chip and alternative strategies to protect children from inappropriate content. Analyses uncover patterns of family and home media characteristics that distinguish between parents who are aware or unaware of the ratings, find the ratings more or less useful, have used the V-chip or not, and employ alternative protective strategies.

Authors

• Sarah Ellen Vaala, Vanderbilt University

• Jessica Castonguay, U of Arizona

• Amy Bleakley, U of Pennsylvania

• Amy B. Jordan, U of Pennsylvania