Shows Present A Positive Side

With shows like Dawson’s Creek and Party of Five networks have found the key to young America. What is it that keeps us turning on the TV every week to find out who is getting together with whom?

Obviously, one reason is the sex appeal smothered with the everyday relationship problems. That’s why it is quite easy to blame networks and producers for the moral decay of our country.

But there is another side to these shows you might not think about - a positive side.

Being a teen today is no picnic. There are tons of pressures, not the least of which is stressful relationships. These shows do an excellent job of portraying some of the problems we all face.

Boyfriend and girlfriend troubles seem earth shattering to us, and it feels like no one understands. But turning on the TV and seeing someone else going through the same thing does help. At least we know we’re not alone.

And in the category of sex, which many shows are rightly criticized for promoting freely, many teen soaps do a good job of showing the importance of safe sex and the consequences of sexual relations.

Some, such as Dawson’s Creek, even have strong characters who vow not to have sex until they are truly ready. Abstinence is an honorable characteristic that many local schools are now encouraging.

Understand that TV is not the miracle solution for our problems or a great learning tool. But television does have an amazing power to influence us, and we must recognize there are some positive aspects to these shows.