Television: Source of Entertainment and Food Related Behaviour Modification in Children Singh Raghuvanshi Rita*, Professor, Singh Hitaishi**, Associate Professor *Department of Foods and Nutrition, College of Home Science, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, 263145, Uttarakhand. **Department of Home Science Extension, College of Home Science, Central Agricultural University, Tura, 794004, Meghalaya Abstract Television is a very powerful media and television advertising may have a major influence on children's eating habits. A study of school children was conducted on availability and utilization pattern of information gained by the children through television viewing. The study revealed that the children were watching TV for 4 to 5 hours per day. The preferred programmes were cartoon (28%), children's programmes (26%), sports (24%) dance and music (12%) and other programme (10%). The preferred food related advertisements included noodles, health drinks, biscuits, chocolates, chips and cold drinks. In 48 per cent of the cases, the demand of foodstuffs shown on TV was fulfilled by the parents. In the opinion of parents, viewing of TV adversely affected appetite (60%). However, some entertainments serials and advertisements for toothpaste, on health tips, health drinks and yoga programme had positive influence on children's behaviour. TV programmes were seen to increase general knowledge, vocabulary and personal hygiene. Top |