Previous Next

Finding Home

Currently Being Moderated
195

MTV’s Obsession with Child Abuse

Posted by Jim_Daly on Jan 21, 2011 4:01:58 PM

On December 29th, the Miami Herald ran a startling headline:mtv2.png

 

MTV’s Every Detail Etched on Children’s Minds

 

The article’s author, Ellen Livingston, spoke with myriad teachers and students about the network’s massive influence, almost all negative. John Anderson, a teacher at a private Lutheran School, said he’s worried kids are obsessed with it.  He cited the fact that creative assignments often include MTV references. 

 

Livingston asked the question: Knowing that the programming gets “its force from sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll” do parents mind their children spending the best years of their youth in front of MTV? “The kids say no,” she writes – and Susan Long, 14, says her mom watches it, too.

 

But Susan Long is no longer 14. She’s 42.

 

Everything I just told you came from an article in the December 29, 1983 edition of the Miami Herald.

 

Twenty-eight years later, MTV is still pushing the envelope, farther and more disturbingly than ever before. Their newest hit, “Skins,” is drawing fire from nearly every corner, not just conservative-minded people. At issue is the fact that scenes of the program seem pretty clearly to violate federal child pornography statues.

 

MTV executives are scrambling, trying desperately to get a handle on a controversy that is growing. The premiere episode garnered 3.3 million viewers. Nielsen reported that 1.2 million people under 18 watched this past week.

When I hear those numbers, I can’t help but think: 

 

MTV’s Every Detail Etched on Children’s Minds

 

The travesty is not only that Hollywood continues to produce such garbage, nor is it that the market will obviously support it. There is nothing new about either sad fact.

 

The tragedy is that scores of young children are having their minds warped and corrupted by images and themes they’ll remember for the rest of their lives. Images and themes that scintillate and nefariously seduce. Images and themes they’re entirely unqualified and unprepared to handle or process.

 

It is nothing short of technological child abuse.

 

Follow me on Twitter @Dalyfocus

45,561 Views Twitter Facebook Tags: mtv, skins, livingston, ellen, herald, miami


Comments (195)
Add a comment Leave a comment on this blog post.
Jan 22, 2011 7:59 AM Guest DeeAnn  says:
I agree. The show is absolutely repulsive. I have two daughter's one 15 and the other11. They wanted to watch this show, so I sat down to watch with them and was so disgusted I had to turn it off.
Jan 22, 2011 10:39 AM Guest Scott  says:

Can anything good come from Mtv?  There is so little redeemable that is on the television, why bother?  Think of the savings Christians would have if they canceled their satellite or cable.  That $35-$80 a month would go a long way to help ministries like Focus.  My children (11, 9, 8, 4, 1 week!) don't even know what Mtv is.  I would guess that most of their friends at our church don't either.  We also don't send them to the government indoctrination centers.  As Christians, we must do what is best for our children.     We must also oppose this obscenity for the sake of the children with absent or neglectful parents.                                                                                                     1Pe 5:8  Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 

Jan 23, 2011 2:23 PM Guest BBMamaGrizzly  says:
Shows like this one put us in a bad spot. On one hand, as Christians and Republicans, we're called by GOD to defend and promote Capitalism, and clearly the free market unfortunately sustains such trashy fare. On the other hand, common sense tells us that we must ban programs like this not just for ourselves and our children, but also for other children who do not have parents with the same kind of wisdom and discernment that we have. What to do?
Jan 24, 2011 6:40 AM Guest Scott M.  says:

I couldn't agree with Scott more, cancel the cable.  There are so many other things that can be done with the time wasted in front of the garbage, especially if one is drawn towards this temptation.  Scripture is clear that if we struggle with a sin, cut it out.  This will also save a ton of money throughout the year.  And I know the argument because I've heard it, "There are so many good learning shows on cable we must have it."  Do yourselves a favor, get a subsription to Netflix for half the cost and order those learning programs.

For me it's not MTV, but sports.  If I had cable, it would always be on.  So now that it's been gone (and has been for years) I discovered I had more time to be with my kids and with our God.
Jan 24, 2011 8:50 AM BBMamaGrizzly BBMamaGrizzly    says:
I have been thinking and praying about this all weekend! When I was reading a list of sponsors who have pulled out of paying for the airtime on this lurid program, the answer came to me. Boycotting the remaining sponsors will crush the dirty-mindedness out of MTV Networks under the weight of GOD-ordained capitalism. This way we are getting what we want -no child porn on TV- without resorting to Democrat/Socialistic regulation of the free market!   No more Subway sandwiches for me, my family, friends, church members, or my husband's co-workers. Never again!
Jan 24, 2011 4:09 PM Guest Rebecca C.  says in response to Scott M.:
I am a stay-at-home mom of two kids, ages 8 and 5.  I was addicted to tv up until last March.  I canceled cable and took the box back to Comcast just about crying while doing it.  When I think back at how much time I lost sitting in front of the tv, it truly saddens me.  I still watch tv but now we only have 20 channels and most of them are ones I never watch like jewelry sales shows, etc.  My television viewing time per day and per week has been dramtically reduced.  Cable is a temptation, for the whole family.  It is a time absorber.  I am so grateful that God convicted me of my addiction and helped me let go of it.  God bless you as pray about God speaking to your heart.
Jan 24, 2011 4:17 PM Guest Christine S  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
Subway has pulled out.
Jan 24, 2011 4:17 PM Guest Sue  says:
When my son was in junior high (about 12 years ago), MTV was pumped in to the locker room TV.  I thought it was a very sad situation!  Now, I am reminded of Jesus' words, "Father, forgive them for they don't know what they are doing."  How very true that is of our American culture.  We don't know what we are doing.  But, I am so very thankful that nothing is impossible with the Lord.  May the Lord help us (me too!) to be faithful to pray for our country ... our youth!
Jan 24, 2011 4:23 PM Guest Emily  says in response to Scott:
While I agree that this show sounds nasty, I don't think that everything that MTV produces is bad, I am a big fan of 16 and Pregnant, as well as Teen Mom - and I am very careful about what I am willing to put into my head.
Jan 24, 2011 4:57 PM Guest Monica  says:
I watch 16 & Pregnant and Teen Mom, though sporadically at best, because I run a crisis pregnancy center and want to see what pop culture is saying about the world in which we operate our ministry.  I've also seen an episode or two of I used to be Fat.  But beyond those shows, nothing of value airs on MTV, and it has been my long held wish that MTV would be moved to premium/pay cable packages instead of landing in the basic cable packages.  As sexually explicit or suggestive as many of its shows are, it should be hard for kids to access--not as easy as Disney and Nickelodeon (not that those channels are all that great, either).
Jan 24, 2011 5:00 PM Guest Beth  says in response to Scott:
I feel like I'm in a losing battle with the tv's in my house!  I want to cancel DISH and just get Netlix - no commercials seducing us!  I realize now I just need to pray that we win this battle.  We don't spend alot of time in front of the TV, but when we do watch, I find myself slapped in the face by what the shows and commercials are promoting.  Think about this:  before the days of TV, would we invite these people into our home?  All kinds of things slither into our home through internet and the tv.
Jan 24, 2011 5:00 PM Guest Bob M  says:
Per Fox News and AFA, Taco Bell has also pulled its ads from the "Skins" program.
Jan 24, 2011 5:03 PM Guest Angela  says:

Funny that this email came along today... I was working out yesterday and one of the big screen TVs had Jersey Shore (?) on it. The show was repulsive and I cannot believe they show that kind of content and language on TV - My daughter is 8 and I shudder to think at her watching those shows and actually thinking that the actions and activities (mostly drinking and sex) are commonplace and acceptable.

 

Amen Sue.... We need to be fervent in our prayers about the youth today - they are bombarded from all sides!
Jan 24, 2011 5:11 PM Guest Suzan  says:
I'm not willing to give up cable because I mostly watch History, Discovery, Animal Planet and many other cable channels and I am THANKFUL that with our AT&T U-verse I can block MTV and VH-1 and the many other crappy channels out there that poison our childrens minds.  Hopefully many of you can do the same if you don't want to give up your cable.
Jan 24, 2011 5:14 PM Guest Cherie  says:
The more perverse and corrupt the entertainment industry becomes, the worse the shows are  ---  why? because it helps the people in the industry sleep at night. The more they can corrupt our youth, the more they can condone their own sorry, corrupt, perverse lives.
Jan 24, 2011 5:16 PM Guest Cherie  says in response to Bob M:
And GM, reportedly...
Jan 24, 2011 5:20 PM Guest Cherie  says in response to Suzan:
Along with blocking it, we can all call the cable & satellite companies and tell them they are on notice --- if they continue to include MTV with our cable package, we will cancel cable altogether.  They should make people pay additional for MTV, like Pay-per-view.....
Jan 24, 2011 5:22 PM Guest Farmer Jack  says:
Honestly, I have no idea what the controversy is about because I haven't had cable TV for years.  A long time ago I realized that cable TV was trash.  And it is.  Even though I miss seeing my local sports teams, I have a small radio that sits with me during baseball season.  I guess it's good to see my local football team on network television over the air, but my daughters have been exposed to horrible commercials by chance when I watch football.  The images they've seen there, they have seen nowhere else.  It's revolting.  My young daughters don't see cable TV and the trash it pours into millions and millions of homes across America (and billions around the world).  If that means my family is sheltered from the world then it's a protective shelter.  I'm not afraid of "the world", but will protect my family from danger at any cost.  Not having cable programming protects my family.
Jan 24, 2011 5:36 PM Guest Dean H.  says in response to Scott:

I'm with you 100%.  We would save millions of dollars in cable fees that could go toward Kingdom building, and it would help so many christians too come out of debt.  God is going to hold us accountable to those wasted dollars.  Also, what repulsive, utterly disgusting garbage "Skins".  England needs to repent, and the U.S. is swiftly becoming like Europe.  May God have mercy.
Jan 24, 2011 5:36 PM Guest Evelyn  says:

The problem with blocking these channels is that you are still paying for them.  They are still using your money to produce more trash to infect those who are not blocked.  They don't care if you don't watch, as long as you pay.  Cable shoice is the answer.  When we can pay for only what we want to watch, then we will have more influence on what is produced.
Jan 24, 2011 5:37 PM Guest Cindy  says:

When are we going to stop 'acting' surprised and do something about it.  Simply 'turning' off the TV isn't an option any more.

 

Parents need to review the material BEFORE their child is exposed; not after and not 'with' them.  If needed..throw out the TV or get rid of cable.  The long term impact is not worth it.

 

We don't need another "woodstock" generation.

Jan 24, 2011 5:39 PM Guest Kelly  says:

I strongly encourage all families to limit their TV exposure.  Since last summer, we have had just basic cable service.  Other than football games and the occasional game show, our TV is never on.  My two youngest kids, age 11 and 13, are reading multiple books per week, playing board games and otherwise occupying their time.  They still ask us from time to time to upgrade our service again (for ESPN and Nickleodean) but we have no plans to do that.  The content of the majority of the programs on both network and cable TV is so objectionable to my husband and me that by not watching, we can - in some small way - take a stand.
Jan 24, 2011 5:44 PM Guest Dean H.  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
You're absolutely right.  Let's boycott these sponsors.  let's exercise the power that we have as consumers, and also the power we have as born again christians.  We cannot allow ourselves and worst our children to absorb this filth coming from Hollywood.  The bible reminds us in Phillipians 4:8  "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Jan 24, 2011 5:42 PM Guest Janice  says:
I can not understand the 42-year-old mom wanting to watch this kind of program. The children may want to watch because of peer pressure to conform, but what is driving that mom? Surely she must realize that it is not a good program for her children to watch. All I can think is that she must have some kind of addiction that needs to be addressed because she is putting her wishes for entertainment above the welfare of her child. This is truly a sad situation.
Jan 24, 2011 5:45 PM Guest John  says:

Ever since we have had cable. we have blocked MTV (and a bunch of other channels) using the paraental controls feature -- we've removed (hidden) MTV and others from the on-screen guide, so our kids don't see the program listings, and we have put a password block on the channels as well.

 

Much of the basic content is, of course, sewage -- and MTV is about the worst of a bad lot. Our kids are old enough now to know that our basic cable subscription includes channels that we've disabled (because their friends have the same cable service). And they know that we as parents are willing to negotiate about some films/shows on a case-by-case basis, but they know other channels, like MTV, are non-negotiable. Unfortunately, many parents that we know are themselves addicted to TV shows that are  not appropriate for their kids. My wife and I have rarely seen prime  time network programming in the last 15 years, because we want to set a  good standard for our kids.If I have any regrets, it is that we were not strict enough in limiting the quantity and quality of TV.

 

I would encourage other parents to learn to use the  parental controls on their system if they have paid TV.Set limits that  reflect your family's values while your kids are young. Abide by them yourself. Consider what  type of family culture you want to develop, and what kind of kids you  want to raise. If you have a DVR, record shows and skip the commercials... the adverts are often worse than the programming.
Jan 24, 2011 5:46 PM Guest Tabitha  says:
What happened to parents in the 1970's and 1980's?  Why did it become alright to quit being parents?  What about saying absolutely not & then being present enough to follow through?  The problem at least partly is parents are not together and together enough to know what their teens are doing & even participate with them to know what kind of trash they are ingesting.  They do not care.  They choose to turn a blind eye and deaf ear to the repercussions of the filth their children take in through media, from early childhood dribble now on Nickelodeon in the mornings to fluffy filth on Disney at night.  Anything to keep the children occupied and quiet so they can do whatever it is they think they want to do.  We apparently do not even aspire to carefully measuring what our children's souls have to deal with.  It is too much trouble.
Jan 24, 2011 6:00 PM Guest Dominic  says:

As a Mr. Mom who stays home and makes sure the children (12-9-6) come home from school and do homework or play outside, it comes down to the parents.

I love watching sports on tv and could watch cable sports all day long and always find something to view.  That also goes for my children, they could always find something to view, be it apropriate or not.  4 years ago it was a big decision to cancel dish and cable from our home.  I am very glad we made that decision as a fmaily and have found other means of entertainment.  2 years ago we purchased a wii for family night and also added Netflicks.  But as of this year we have since cancelled Netflicks for the fact that there is also too many inappropriate viewing choices avaiable for adults as well as children.  Please take all viewing into a prayerful commitment with your family and the Lord, for it is what we watch and allow to influence our choices that makes many Christians one step closer to Satan and one step further from God.
Jan 24, 2011 6:08 PM Guest Robyn  says:
www.skyangel.com  All Christian, family friendly programming...no worries!!  We love it and have had it for about 6 years now.  It's about $25 per month...many channels, FOX news, some sports, even pay-per-view.  MUCH better than cable.  Check it out!
Jan 24, 2011 6:30 PM Cee Cee    says:

I could not imagine the kids watching MTV or VH1 in my house-it would feel surreal. I use the parent controls and password to block those and other offensive channels. His and my kids unfortunately still watched this stuff at their other parents houses.
Jan 24, 2011 7:10 PM Guest Tom  says:
Watched a news clip of this today. It is absolutely appalling. It's time as christians we rise up. We've been silent for far too long. as watchmen on the wall we must cry out, ENOUGH!!! I urge you to fast and pray and remember that our weapons are mighty, they have the divine power to pull down and demolish strongholds. "Give ear, O God, and hear, open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy.  O Lord, listen, O Lord forgive, O Lord hear and act! For your sake O my God, do not delay, beause the city and your people bear your name. Amen!  As a Children's Director for more than twenty years I have never seen the fields more ripe for harvest. Blessings.
Jan 24, 2011 7:22 PM Guest hilltopbaums  says in response to Scott:
I agree totally.  Our home does not have cable.  We have a tv monitor and a dvd/vcr so we can control what is seen in our home.  What about family time?  There can't be much if everyone in the family is parked in front of the tv!  When I mention to people that we do not have tv in our home, most people act like we are weird and from the dark ages.   The Bible does say come out from amongst them and be ye separate.  We are happy without cable tv.  We like to play games and sit around and discuss each other's day.  I wouldn't change the time we spend together for anything!
Jan 24, 2011 7:27 PM Guest Myalyza  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
I think the key is to not watch the programming.  Increased government legislation is always a threat.  Networks and specific shows are funded by the ads. By not watching it, their ad dollars are not reaching our families.  We have not had cable or satelitte since we were were expecting our first child , 8 years ago.  We enjoy media - mainly via netflix. But it is on our terms without advertising.  To me, all the junk food advertised during kid's programming is just ridiculus and yet another reason to protect my children from mainstream TV.
Jan 24, 2011 7:37 PM Guest Skip  says:

If this program is bordering on being child porngraphy, can't a Christian group, file a lawsuit against MTV the producers of child porn and the SPONSORS of child porn?

Jan 24, 2011 8:03 PM Guest Linda A.  says in response to Janice:
Yes I can, we have a co-worker and all her conversations are as to what the "stars" are doing and thinks it is her responsibility to the rest of the team to keep us informed on Hollywood and the television programs, this woman is past the 42 year mark. It is so sad for someone to be so shallow, and not to have any type of meaningful conversation.  I have to admitt that I have just been convicted by one of the responses in reference to canceling cable and applying those funds to the work of God's Kingdom and the wonderful work that Focus on the Family continues to provide all of us that care enough to listen and act on....thank you !!!!
Jan 24, 2011 8:04 PM Guest Bill B.  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
I fully agree with you!  I thought however, that an update regarding the sponsors of this garbage was in order.  Today Foxnews reported that additional sponsors have pulled out.  They include: Taco Bell, Subway, Wrigley & General Motors. 
Jan 24, 2011 8:05 PM Guest Regina M.  says:
Please send a message to DC and the FCC to let them know how outraged we are as a group. I will definitely sign it and fwd it to all my contacts. I'm sure we can do something to stop MTV.  We must wake up and realize that our children are OUR responsibility and we MUST act to stop this from coming into our homes.
Jan 24, 2011 8:07 PM Guest Christian T.  says:
Wait, no one is requiring you or your children to watch TV. As a Christian, it is your responsibility to choose your media wisely. At our house, we do not watch television. Not at all. There are Christian cable companies and satelite services such as SafeTV or 3ABN. You never have to watch over the air or regular cable TV. Please, let us stop saying how awful TV is and how we should do something about it. Instead, make a choice within the area of your own responsibility.
Jan 24, 2011 7:59 PM Guest b  says:
The problem is that all of the actors are most likely adults playing teens, therefore no true laws broken.  Unfortunately, as long as people watch this it will continue to play.
Jan 24, 2011 8:01 PM Guest Ken  says in response to Dean H.:
Janice, the woman was 16 when she said this.  Now she is 42.  That being said, I agree that we should do something like a boycott of all sponsors.  It has worked before.  If we start hitting them in the pocket book, they'll start to listen.
Jan 24, 2011 8:09 PM Guest Patty M.  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
Just read in an online article that Subway too has pulled its advertising!  Good for them.
Jan 24, 2011 8:07 PM Guest Cheryl  says:
We have been without cable for 5 years.  The best decision we ever made.  A combination of poor shows and cost made our decision.  I work in a grade school and I'm so disturbed at the programs that kids in 4th - 8th grades are watching.  You can't tell me it isn't making an impression on them; I see the results of it daily.
Jan 24, 2011 8:15 PM Guest Rachel H.  says in response to Skip:

Have you checked out this website...

http://www.parentstv.org/

 

I hate these kinds of shows.
Jan 25, 2011 3:36 PM Guest Jon  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
While being a consrvative and a Christian, I must strongly disagree.  God nowhere calls us to defend and promote Capitalism.  God calls us to defent the widow and the fatherless!!!
Jan 24, 2011 8:09 PM Guest Denise  says in response to Scott:
Amen! We totally agree.  About a year ago, we switched all our cable to SkyAngel, at first my children werent to happy; even though it was disney they were going to miss.  After years of watching the shows on the disney channel disinegrate into nothing but trash, my husband and I had had enough.  My son who is almost 16 has never seen MTV and I can Praise God for that.  Now with SkyAngel we can all watch family movies together; movies that are not offensive.  I don't want to totally remove them from this world, we are called to have a renewing of our minds, to bring all thought under submission to the Lord.  If we are not monitoring what mainstream media places in the hearts and minds of our children, be ready because the Lord says we are going to be held accountable at a much higher standard as their teachers;  We are the ones who are supposed to bring our children up in the Lord Jesus.  Left to society they will be drug thru the mud.  God Help us all
Jan 24, 2011 8:18 PM Guest Richard  says in response to Janice:
When the original article was written, she was 14. That was 28 years ago! The young girl is now 42. I had to read it 2 or 3 times to understand it myself, so don't feel bad.
Jan 24, 2011 8:58 PM Guest Bryan Jay K.  says:

I heard through the media that the actors on this program are all under-age. MTV (I call it MTTV as in Empty TV) seems to have grown tired of its usual lustful fanfare and so now feels compelled to explore the taboo shores of child sexuality. To me, they are following the same downward spiral as your typical depraved porn addict. These lost people are happily receiving their reward on Earth, but have doomed themselves to a never ending search for the bottom of their thick pool of filth.
Jan 24, 2011 9:11 PM Guest Felicia  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
Why does being Republican have anything to do with it? I just go with whatever is right and just. No party just GOD! Anyways I agree with canceling the cable! Most of it is just garbage!
Jan 24, 2011 9:16 PM Guest John  says:

When I was 12, I would come home from school everyday, and have 2 hours + until my parents came home.  I would hide upstairs and watch MTV...back then, it was slightly more tame then it is now...even so, I would spend hours waiting for my favorite sexy videos to come on.  There was also a show called 'the Grind' with lots of scantily clad women.  Shortly thereafter, we got our first computer and dial-up internet.  My addiction to MTV quickly transitioned into a 12 YEAR addiction to internet pornography.  Even though I'm now a Christian, married man and a father, it is something I will never be completely free of until I die, I am convinced.  I am horribly ashamed of the (probably) YEARS of the most free and productive time of my life that I wasted in front of TV and computer screen.  Not to mention the sin, and the effects on personal relationships...the constant struggle, temptation, guilt, shame... I'm also convinced this could have been PREVENTED, #1 if we did not have cable or internet, or if we had parental controls on the internet, and #2, if my parents had been actively involved in talking to me about these potential struggles and making sure I wasn't involved in them. 

Parents, PLEASE, get rid of cable TV.  Put a filter on your internet of some kind, and keep the computer in a public area of the house, like the kitchen or living room.  If you have a son, realize he will struggle with these temptations more than your generation may have, because the amount of media garbage/porn/etc out there is so pervasive and easily accessible.  Don't be afraid to talk to your kids about this--they want your help, even if they don't say so!!!
Jan 25, 2011 6:06 AM Guest Mike E.  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
I find your comment on our calling "as Christian's and Republicans is to defend Capitalism", to be extemely troublesome.  As Christains we are to contend earnestly for th faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3).  Dear sister we are not in this country as the Redeemed of the Lord Jesus to propagate capitalism...We are called to make disciples sharing the message of Christ.  Please know that part of our issue is that we watch to much and act to little in ral biblical practice.  Although I am a conservative man politically, it is only becuase it more closely reflects some biblical virtues.  For a little study look at FOX news website and see soem of the smut they traffic in...Maxim girls and other smutty links...but they are conservative as well.  We need to stop fighting a culture war and fight on our knees for the sould of the lost, not to have a comfrtable Christian environment.
Jan 24, 2011 9:29 PM Guest Steve0  says:
Some of the providers allow you to block the channels, however, you are still paying for them as part of the package.  I am going to date myself, but I remember when MTV used to be just music videos.  Then it became miscellaneous television.  Now it should be called fake reality television.  I wish the cable, satellite and IP Television providers would go to a true ala-carte programing, where you could select and pay based on the channels you want.  If you don't want to pay for MTV 1-3, you don't select them and MTV doesn't get money from you each month.  Although, I have a feeling MSNBC would go out of business too!
Jan 24, 2011 9:33 PM Guest Virginia  says:
I agree its repulsive. I also think a lot of tv shows and definitely Hollywood had contributed to a lot of crimes in this country and a lot of the negative feelings for children and women and handicapped people.They think its fun to make fun of people and to look like slobs themselves. Why is it that women are supposed to be beautiful while men look like they have been on a three day drunk. They don't shave and they look like they got their clothes out of rag bags. I think it all stinks and I for one won't watch this program among the others, like the Simpsons and the other shows this deranged producer makes.  I don't watch. Thank God for PBS!
Jan 25, 2011 6:09 AM Guest Bethany  says in response to Scott M.:
Good for you guys.  I was raised without tv and I don't feel deprived...actually the exact opposite I can clearly see the waste of time and what a mind pollutant it is.  I have also lived with tv so I think I have a pretty educated opinion. But as I was saying to the guys (i read the 2 Scott's post) good for you!!! We need more dads to get off the couch and be Godly examples to their children even if it means chucking the "god" tv out the window and netflix does rock.
Jan 24, 2011 9:37 PM Guest Amy  says:

I am not a parent but have several nieces & nephews ranging in ages from 30 to 11.  I have watched MTV on occasion and am aware of bad aweful shows on there.  However, I also know about some of the good or decent shows like "16 & Pregnant", "Teen Mom", "I used to be fat" and "If you really knew me".  And have watched some episodes from these shows.

On one season on "16 & Pregnant" one teen couple gave their baby up for adoption using Bethany Christian Services despite oposition from both of their parents.  This young couple is still together.

So because there are some shows that are disgusting & aweful you can't write off the whole network.  Just don't watch those shows.
Jan 24, 2011 9:37 PM Guest ELAINE  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
CANCEL IT. THAT'S WHAT WE CAN DO.
Jan 24, 2011 9:52 PM Guest Vicki  says:
  We do not watch T.V. (we monitor movies for our small children)  After seeing the reports on this "Skins" I am absolutely appalled. Cannot believe the limits some networks go to for ratings and money. A little more than a hand slap is necessary here.
Jan 24, 2011 9:53 PM Guest lauren  says:
Can't remember who said it, but also can forget the quote: "I don't let my kids watch network TV (& cable) for the same reason I don't let my dog drink out of the toilet".
Jan 24, 2011 9:57 PM Guest Missy  says:

Cancel cable!!  I don't have any television channels at home, just dvd's and video's.  I watch programs online, moslty ministries.

There is another problem right in front of our eyes and ears at every check out counter.  There has to be a front cover of some naked 90 lb female celebrity kissing another female, or someone's greatest, hottest, sexiest sex tips on how to please your man in bed, right in the faces of any maybe even 3 or 4 year old that can read, not to mention my teen son, trying extremely hard to stay PURE, in a very corrupt, unpure, dirty, filthy world.  We can't even insulate them enough to deal with what comes out of people's mouths at the library, grocery, karate class.  There are not even any morals in these people's lives anymore, never mind whether they are CHRISTIAN or not. GOD tells us not to judge them, because they are doing exactly what the worldly people do.  Have they any common sense to not swear and pervert sex right in the faces of the public they so blatanly protect as their very standard of living???  It's like living in Sodom and Gomorah.  GOD, please deliver us from this lie and trap the devil has the world under.  Whether, they want to be Christians or not, let us not be involved in their wickedness, and sinfulness.  Give us a place of refuge, safety, innocense again.  God, please, protect our values for YOUR children we are raising up for YOU.  These people want Christianity out of their lives so badly, because of their rights and freedom of speech, well, we have rights and freedom of speech, too.  And, we don't want their filth in the public eye or public billboards and places of business, or schools!!!  AMEN.  Glory to GOD.
Jan 24, 2011 10:14 PM Guest Elizabeth  says:
I remember when MTV was beginning in the early 80's. I was 21, married and had a baby boy. I didn't like it then, and my children do not watch it now - my youngest is 10. The "I want my M-TV" still sticks in my mind. Music is very powerful. Now when I listen to the "oldies" or "classic rock", and really hear the message they are sending - it's not good...  Be careful little ears what you hear...
Jan 25, 2011 6:17 AM Guest Mary J.  says:
My youngest kids are now in their late 20s and early 30s.  My husband and I didn't get cable until after they started college.  I figured they were already watching too much TV just on the "big 4" networks and PBS.  Besides, while they really wanted to be able to watch MTV, and I suppose they did while in the homes of friends with cable, I didn't want them exposed to it, if I could help it.
Jan 24, 2011 10:28 PM Guest Floyd  says in response to DeeAnn :

Hey DeeAnn:

 

You have the right idea.  If there is a new show out that kids are interested in, why not sit down in front of the television with them.  Having a parent in the room changes the viewing dynamic, and will undoubtedly make the kids uncomfortable having a parent watch with them if there is questionable content.  After the program (or several minutes into it in this case), parents and their children can have a frank discussion about the program.

 

Thanks for being a responsible parent. Keep up the good work.
Jan 24, 2011 10:31 PM Guest H.S.  says:
Our family, too, has been disgusted and sick to death of the horrific quality of television programing. So many years ago we canceled our cable. (we had only had it for two years, and were fed up.) When I called the cable company to cancel, the representative asked me if she could put a reason down on their files of why I canceled. I told her that we hated the programs that were being made for cable and regular tv, and we wanted to protect our children from the garbage that is on tv. I'll never forget the representatives response to my reason. She said, "You know you can't protect them forever. They're gonna learn this stuff any way from somewhere." Really?! I responded gently and kindly saying, "So someday my children may be in a car accident so I should have them drive the car and let them crash today since it's probably going to happen to them someday anyway." Not only did I know that I was doing the right thing in canceling, but I also knew that our family needed to step up our prayers since I suspect this representative is not the only one in the U.S. who thinks this way.
Jan 24, 2011 10:33 PM Guest Heather D  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

It certainly is a rock and a hard place.  We cant have our cake and eat it too can we?  I think the best we can do is to protect our children and expose them to things only when we see fit to do so....  you cant worry about the country, your political party, your town or even your neighborhood.  The ONLY thing you can control is your own family unit.....

It's a rough spot, but you cannot burden yourself too heavily with it or you will exhaust your efforts and not see the forest for the trees.   Focus on YOUR family.  That is all we can do.
Jan 25, 2011 6:39 AM Guest Crystal  says in response to Denise:
I agree, Denise.  A little over a year ago we got rid of our cable and got SkyAngel.  What a difference it makes.  We've actually gotten to a point where we either watch SkyAngel or just watch movies w/o commercials on Netflix or movies we already have.  We've saved a ton of money AND saved our kids from seeing something they're not ready to deal with.  My daughter is 4 but my son will be 13 in a few months, I don't want to expose him to any of that trash.
Jan 24, 2011 11:04 PM Guest Martha  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

This is something every consciencious Christian parent grapples with at one time or another and thank God we do!!! Christians are called to promote Christ and glorify Him, foremost, in all our choices and in this country that includes protecting and defending the God given rights of LIFE, LIBERTY, and the PURSUIT of Happiness of every individual, especially the weak, helpless, elderly and all children beginning in the womb. So, if it is wrong to allow children to see PG-13 or R movies at home or the theater (Parents who see them are conveying it's a grown up thing to do instead of a right/wrong thing to do), why would they be allowed to watch these kinds of TV shows? If it is wrong, defending captialism has nothing to do with it. Don't turn it on or have tv in the house. That is where we begin. Banning the viewing of a show for your family and explaining why is the first and major impacting defense. Capitalism thrives based on the need as well as the availability of a product. Grocery stores sell alcohol and "birth control" but we don't ban grocery stores, just the products. If it breaks the law-ban it legally and if it doesn't, but breaks God's law, then we must get involved in urging legislation to do so for protection against its harm. My children are grown, 25 & 28, and if they ever watched MTV in our house I wasn't aware of it as we didn't as a family, they didn't have tv's in their rooms, and agreeing on who controlled the tv control and/or which program that everyone agreed on was such an ordeal, I don't remember MTV as an option!  But I am sure they viewed it at one time or another. I have learned that as Christians we need to be more aware and cautious of why we feel we the need to be entertained or stimulated all the time and what we view as an entertainment that does stimulate us. How we live before our children will influence them in their choices and what kind of influence they are to their peers-or how their peers may influence them instead. The older I become the more I realize how many God given opportunities I have wasted because of my desire to be entertained. If I am ever allowed to see how much ministry the Lord could have used me in His kingdom work while I was on this earth, I am afraid I will be ashamed of being so selfish!
Jan 24, 2011 11:19 PM Guest Porfie  says in response to DeeAnn :
I recently cxl'd my sattelite in November. Too expensive and I didn't even have any of the premium channels. I got tired of garbage and I didn't watch MTV because of the trash it shows. You hear that MTV, Your nothing but TRASH! All I have is a dvd and a VHS player. And I have plenty of stuff to watch from the old days, Film Noir. Thats all I need...And a radio so I can listen to Focus on the Family and such. Thank you Christian radio!
Jan 24, 2011 11:35 PM Guest Frannie  says:
We do get some basic cable channels at our house but honestly nobody in the family has time to watch much.  It's not a big lure but there are times when we enjoy a few select shows. My 18, 16, and 13 year olds know that MTV is basically not allowed and they don't really care.  I did sit and watch about 15 minutes of Jersey Shore with my 16 year old daughter and her 17 year old friend just to see what it was about.  All 3 of us I think were equally appalled.  It was totally sleazy, pointless, and just plain sad.  What a group of lost young people with no concept of what relationships should be about.  The girls had no desire to watch it again.  But what's really sad is how it does seem to represent  a portion of our current culture.  I am happy that advertisers actually have some boundaries and are willing to pull their ads from the new show.  Good for them.  I don't know what else will get through to the MTV people.
Jan 24, 2011 11:58 PM Guest abby  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
where  are you finding sponsors?
Jan 25, 2011 3:48 AM Guest Brian  says:
I agree with canceling the cable. My wife and I did this in 1997 when our two youngest were two and a new born. It was hard for me - not her and obviously not the kids. Fourteen years later the fruit is that our home is a safer place.
Jan 25, 2011 3:53 AM Guest Keisha B  says:

Has it really come to this? Are we are really living in a world that has become so dark that some adults have opted to ignore asking the questions, “Is this show beneficial to teenagers?” “Is it wise?” “Will it help them to make good decisions for their lives?” in favor of asking “Is it provocative and interesting?” “Will they watch?” “Will McDonald’s and Coke pay us for ad time when we show them the preliminary estimates of viewership?”

 

Consider this quote from Brian Graden during an interview for PBSFrontline: “Even though I work at MTV…I am starting to see the world more like someone who’s approaching forty than someone who’s twenty,” says Brian Graden, the channel’s president of programming. “And I can’t help but be worried that we are throwing so much at young adults so fast. And that there is no amount of preparation or education or even love that you could give a child to be ready.”

 

I truly hope that a time will come when the media will understand that we can’t have it both ways. We can’t be against teenage pregnancy, yet broadcast shows with teenagers having drug-induced sex. We can’t advertise violent video games and movies, then scratch our heads when confused young people shoot innocent people. And we CANNOT show underaged people behaving in a sexual fashion without sending a message that children are sexual and pedophilia is okay.

 

Needless to say, the show “Skins” will not be viewed in my home. And I know that other Moms and Dads have likely made this decision for their homes. Trouble is, my kids still have to live in the world with kids who were allowed to see this show and others like it. And I’m praying to God that when the chickens come home to roost, when younger and younger people are viewed as sexual objects, that parents will stand up and say, enough is enough.
Jan 25, 2011 3:56 AM Guest Leonard H  says:
My family has no cable/satellite TV service.  We plan what we watch on DVD, maybe 2 movies a month.  We did this because of all of the trash on TV that we did not want our family exposed to.  If people were serious about changing programming, cancel cable and tell them why! 
Jan 25, 2011 4:03 AM Guest Holly  says in response to Christian T.:
It is our duty as Christians to make an impact in the society we live in.  Although we personally may choose not to watch a show that doesn't have an impact on our community.  As soldiers for Christ we are called to arms to defend the gospel of Christ.  It isn't easy and we will be persecuted for standing up for what is right but it is our duty.  Don't just turn your tv off-get out there and and make an impact on those who do!
Jan 25, 2011 4:35 AM Guest Mark  says:

Throw the TVs out!  When my wife and I married 25 years ago we decided that we would not have a TV in our home.  Not only for the sake of our children because of content, but also for the increased communication between us.  And that was back when they had "decent" things on the TV.  When I hear/read about the shows such as this one, I am so thankful that we went without.  Yes, it is sometimes missed when there is a big news event, etc., but on the whole it is not missed.  My children actually read books!! Who ever heard of such a thing!  We have 9 children and I would be kidding myself if I thought they didn't occasionally watch TV at friend's houses, but at least it is a minimal amount and my wife and I aren't the ones allowing the trash into our home.

 

The scriptures say: "Redeem the time".  I can't see how most of the junk on TV has any redeeming value.
Jan 25, 2011 4:49 AM Guest momwit2boys  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
I agree with you! Unfortunetly why does christianity and republican have to go together? I am a true christian and I am democrat. Please keep in mind that there are true christian democrats just as many as republicans. Have a blessed day!
Jan 25, 2011 4:55 AM Guest MaduraMi  says:
Having read all the comments like "just cancel cable" I think we're missing an opportunity.  MTV has long gotten away from what it was when I stumbled across this cool channel when my parents first got cable when I was a kid.  Remember when it was just like video-radio?  They played music videos.  Then they started doing the spring-break thing showing young drunk girls doing all sorts of naughty things.  Lets face it, sex sells.  Since then MTV has been on a very slippery slope.  Shows like the "Real World" didn't really reflect the real world at all.  Instead the network made it it's mission to promote promiscuity, and homosexuality.  If I'm not mistaken, MTV couldn't even run the Superbowl half-time show without showing some nudity.  I believe this is the time for Christians to stand up and really make a stand against these cable channels that repeatedly chip away at the moral values in this country.  Don't just turn it off or look the other way.  Make your voices heard to the cable channels and the advertisers.  MTV gets it's money from advertisers.  Boycott any advertiser that supports MTV programming.  We can put MTV out of business.
Jan 25, 2011 7:32 AM Guest Lakeisha  says:
A book entitled Hooked: New Science on How Casual Sex ia Affecting our Children confirms that parents are not just paranoid.  When did highschool aged children become the demographic that everyone wants to watch have scandalous sexual relationships?  Sad.
Jan 25, 2011 5:19 AM Guest tammy m  says:

Since we don't watch much TV and banned MTV years ago, I'm not sure which companies sponsor MTV.  Which companies sponsor it so that I know who to avoid from this day forth?  Sleeze is to be avoided and cut off financially.  That is the bottom line here in these companies on earth.  they will keep pushing unless they feel less in their pocket books.

Thank you for your feedback.

Tammy
Jan 25, 2011 7:33 AM Guest Scott M.  says in response to Farmer Jack:
Farmer,  baseball starts again soon my friend and I'll be listening on the radio as well!  We also subscribe to "Old Time Radio Shows" and often listen to radio programs from the 50's and 60's.  There is an old saying on there that says, "Families that pray together, stay together."  If we did a little more of that and a little less of Television and "doing our own thing" God's gifts in each of us would be better realized and utilized!  Fight for your family folks!
Jan 25, 2011 5:31 AM Guest Perry  says:

There are plenty of calls for censorship on trashy tv that have been going on since tv was nationally aired. Those calls were unsuccessful then, and they will be until either Jesus calls us home or we become a totalitarian state where ALL media including and especially Christian media is monitored and censored.

 

The problem is not the fact that this garbage is on tv, but with the ones watching it. That trash wouldn't be on if NOBODY was willing to watch it. Even the most vile pornography exists because there is an "audience" who has an appetite for that stuff whether it's legal or illegal, regulated or not.

 

As Christians, our job is not to be crusaders of prohibition, but a light in a depraved and dying world. The problem is a heart problem. IF the producers of the most depraved smut was to get saved, he/she wouldn't produce that trash anymore. If those who watched that stuff were to get saved, they also wouldn't watch it anymore.

 

We are called to evangelize the world NOT legislate it. I agree we should vote for lawmakers who want decency on the airwaves, but remember that censorship is a sword that can cut the handler as well as the ones it's wielded against. There are many well intended laws on the books now that have been turned on their heads and used as instruments of evil. We never know if the very laws we seek to pass to silent those we find offensive, may also be used to silence the Gospel too. Our focus should be on winnng the lost, and morality will follow. A corrupt tree can only bring forth corrupt fruit.
Jan 25, 2011 5:39 AM Guest Colleen T.  says:
MTV is not known in my home either....even before my personal salvation and getting sober a little over five years ago I was blessed to have some type of morals and didn't allow that channel in my home. I watched MTV as a child during the days of 80's hair bands and it contributed to all things that were evil and immoral in my life....drugs, alcohol, promiscuity and the medical issues related to that lifestyle. I idolized those VJ's and those bands and wanted to live just like them when I grew up....sad sad sad. The result was despair, remorse, regret and a broken life. I had no idea a show like this even existed but I am grateful to know that MTV is still just trash TV.
Jan 25, 2011 5:51 AM Guest Skip  says in response to Rachel H.:
Thanks Rachel.  I just took a look at parentstv.org!  I'll have to look at it again tonight.  Thanks.  Yes, I heard that the actors were underage and that is why MTV was worried if they crossed the line into child porn.  They probably did, the outtakes are still child porn whether they air or not.  They could be in big trouble.  It's past the time to get this stuff off the air.  I think I like the comment about radio - at least you don't have to worry about seeing anything bad.  Some "family" shows push the line on TV and then there's always an inappropriate commercial on a "family' show.
Jan 25, 2011 8:02 AM Guest shari m.  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
BBMamagrizzly.....you are so right....we need to have the Christian Organization One Million Mom's to get on this....they have done such wonderful things with getting sponsors to no longer sponsor disgusting programs.  They send out an email educating their members like myself and we send emails directly to the company and most of the time it is a done deal.  I will let them know asap!  I encourage you to join One Million Moms so you can get your name on a boycott list.
Jan 25, 2011 6:08 AM Guest Ashley  says:

It's interesting. My husband and I just canceled our cable subscription this year because we actually sat down and realized, we watch maybe.... 3 shows? We much prefer movies. So we gave up our $80 cable bill in favor of spending $10 a month for Netflix. There's a lot more family friendly content not to mention old shows that aren't on TV anymore. (Looney Toons, anyone?) And I can control what we watch. That even goes to commercials. My husband and I were noticing some of the commercials were raunchier than what was on the shows!

 

Plus, I can watch Veggie Tales anytime I want. (yes, I'm really 4 years old at heart. I love those lil guys!)

 

I can honestly say, I don't miss my cable at all. Except perhaps for one particular cooking show. But I can watch it online, so I'm not too worried.
Jan 25, 2011 8:06 AM Guest melissa m.  says:

we don't have TV because it is mostly trash.  my husband (now 37) was in the hospital when he was 16.  he STILL remembers MTV programs he saw while in the hospital. (he had no TV at home)  WOW!  the WORD of GOD says we are to be filling our minds with THE WORD:)  i say UNPLUG:):):) and throw out:)

mel
Jan 25, 2011 6:22 AM Guest Darcy  says in response to John:

My biggest problem is when my 11 year old daughter goes to friends' houses where the parents do not have the same standards as I do. My daughter has a friend her age that is allowed to watch Family Guy. Talk about trash! I am offended by that show - that is horribly inappropriate for a child to watch. (And these are people that go to my church.) Luckily my daughter is pretty good about telling people she is not allowed to watch something. I guess we did something right.

Jan 25, 2011 8:07 AM Guest SaveMyKids  says:
I, too, grew up watching MTV and was nieve at what was being placed in my mind. I'm not in my 30's with children of my own and do not allow them to watch anything on MTV or any other music channel. It's our jobs as parents and caregivers to protect our children by having boundaries on what comes in our homes, setting higher standards for what is acceptable and what is not. When my children have a disagreement about our family rules, I explain my reason for not allowing garbage to come in. After all, garbage in is garbage out.
Jan 25, 2011 6:35 AM Guest Brenda  says:

For those looking for alternatives to MTV...BEWARE. We have access to TBN (a Christian network) which has a music video program.....I was watching it with my teen age children the other day and had to turn it off....one of the groups, with a female singer, was pretty provocative.

Point: (and reminder to myself) We have to be involved parents..know what our children are watching, reading and listening to.   Even if it's labeled Christian....being a Christian might not be acceptable in schools and policies, but it seems to be the new cool place to be for the music buisness.  We also need to re-evaluate what we as parents consume through music, TV and literature....Some of us are telling our children that certain forms of entertainment are ok without even realizing that we are, by the things we watch, listen to and read...rearrange our homes so TV's, computers and maybe even stereos are in a central location......but most importantly we need to pray...pray for nation...starting with our families....our spouses, our children and ourselves, that we can see our lives through Jesus' eyes.
Jan 25, 2011 6:41 AM Guest Devasahayam  says:
A friend and erstwhile colleague of mine once stated that the "M" in MTV stands for "mud" or "muck"--and history since the network was established have proved the statement factual (he didn't tell me this in 1983, but even then subscription-sample videos I had seen in someone's home in Canada gave me enough reason to avoid MTV entirely), case-in-point Skins.
Jan 25, 2011 6:43 AM Guest Sherrie  says:
I saw an episode of Skins the other day and I agree, it's child porn!
Jan 25, 2011 6:46 AM Guest Jenn  says in response to Emily:
MTV is not a valuable source of information by any means.  I agree, while not all shows are terrible, most introduce or continue to push issues that some teens, especially young minded ones are not ready to deal with or completely understand.  As for 16 and Pregnant, let me just say, I was 16 and pregnant, and that show repulses me; their attitudes towards partying and their parents, and getting government support.  While it portrays some real scenerios of what happens when you are young and pregnant, it idolizes it as well, making it seem as though it's a great thing...they are putting these girls on tv, they are getting national exposure, but have no idea of what being a mother is all about.  I was there and lived through it; while my daughter is one of my greatest gifts, it was not easy.
Jan 25, 2011 6:48 AM Guest fgreen  says:
I'm not understanding what the 42 year old woman sees in MTV of today.    She is my age and when we were both teenagers, MTV was awesome.   They played music videos and had concerts but toward the end of the 80s they drifted away from playing music and started slowly introducing game shows, adult cartoons, then reality shows, and any music they played was hip hop and they lost their original appeal-- at least to me--  a rock and roll fan.    So I stopped watching MTV by the mid 90s when music all but stopped on MTV.       What I see my 21 yr old son watching I am appalled by.     They should now call themselves  MoronTV as it is no longer MusicTV and hasn't been for 20 years.    
Jan 25, 2011 6:56 AM Guest Elizabeth  says:

I understand where you're coming from, and I agree that we as Christians should be concerned about programs like Skins. But to be honest, the only way "MTV is etched on young minds" is if the parents are not paying attention to what their children are doing. If you don't want your children "corrupted" by MTV or similar trashy programming, don't let them have access to it. Simple as that.

Also, the original version of Skins, which aired in the UK, makes MTV's version look like a Disney special.
Jan 25, 2011 6:57 AM Guest trinity3  says:
I hear so many people who say "it's just entertainment". Years ago, the Lord convicted our family about being entertained by things He abhors and commands us not to do. The Bible clearly states not to have sex outside of marriage, not to commit adultery, to honor our parents... and so much more. Watching tv and movies that involve such things brings no glory to God and brings no value to our lives. It clutters our minds and spirits.  Before reading this article, I just finished reading an article about 2nd graders performing oral sex in class. Is it really "just tv?" I think not!
Jan 25, 2011 6:59 AM Guest kaylin's mommy  says:
I am a fan of 16 & pregnant and Teen Mom.  I have watched these shows since they aired, but I also have an issue with the domestic violence that goes on on these shows.  Last episode of Teen Mom it was Amber & Gary that fought, this season it's Jenelle & her mother.  I was mortified when Jenelle was in her mother's face cussing her.  Not the kind of example I want set for my child.  I was very curious about the Skins episode because the commercials were literally on EVERY channel.  I couldn't believe how horrible it was.  I am a stay at home mom also, and very worried about how horrible (and what new things) will constantly be forced on my child when she is 20.  I have the ability to lock out shows and channels on my television, and I exercise that ability regularly.  I have locked out LOGO, Starz, HBO, CINEMAX, etc.... we have free trial periods on the "MOVIE" channels, and very rarely is there anything that I would watch or let my child watch on those channels.  I hate the fact that after 8 p.m. every "MOVIE" channel turns into PORN TV.  It's about making good decisions.  A buffet isn't a bad thing unless you overeat, right?  There are christian television shows for adults and children on tv.  
Jan 25, 2011 7:01 AM Guest MMM  says:

Do a little research. Obsesity, higher rates of violence, loss of critical thinking skills, ADHD, and many more ills have television, even the "good" shows, as a specific cause. We turned off cable 10 years ago. My kids (8 and 9) watch PBS occasionally, and movies we have previewed. We get our news online. You have no idea how desensitized you are until you've had the TV off for at least 6 months. Suddenly, sex and violence jump off the screen and slap you in the face.

 

And what a time waster! We are entertaining ourselves to death. If you truly wish to learn more about history, science, cooking, or whatever "good" channel you watch, find a magazine or book. Studies show you will retain more and learn more by reading than watching a brief program and ingesting sound bites.

 

Do you know what's really sad? There is an organization that promotes "TV Turnoff Week" and is supported by pediatricians and teachers.....but not a single Christian organization or church. Marx was mistaken. TV is the opiate of the people, not religion.Just entertain us so we don't have to think ....if you cannot live without it, it is your master.....
Jan 25, 2011 7:04 AM Guest Angela  says:

As the mother of three girls, 18, 17, and 10, I see the magnetic effect MTV has on teens.  And much worse, I see teens all around me trying to immitate Snookie and the gang from Jersey Shore.  It shows in their choices, their actions, and their attitudes.  Like Susan in the story, I was once enthralled by MTV.  It made it's debut when I was 14 and it was even cooler than my "Atari" game...lol.  It was "music television".  But that was before the internet, youtube, iTunes, Pandora, and other sites where you can now get music at anytime!  I had to listen to the radio all day or tune in to MTV at a certain time to catch my favorite song!   That WAS in the early '80s....  Fast forward to 2011, MTV can't drift any further from the music scene!  In fact, I would go as far as to say some of the teens today couldn't tell you what the M in MTV stands for!!!  With the rapid growth of  technology and the supply and demand's effect on music, MTV had to "reinvent" themselves to stay in the game...and is now the literal definition of FILTH!!!  Sadly, most parents don't know what's on MTV or what it promotes but they wonder why their children act/dress the way they do.  I BLOCKED the channel from all of my tvs....trying to block the website from my computer (cause yes, you can conveniently see all of your "favorite" episodes 24-7 via the internet!) but it has yet to work for me...still trying though.  Our home computer is password protected so I try to monitor access and usage closely as well.   We can take a stand against this trash!  We can make it hard for MTV to penetrate our homes and childrens' minds.     We can fight this battle!  And the more parents get involved, we can WIN!!!
Jan 25, 2011 7:05 AM Guest Laura  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
In addition, what if we started calling all the sponsors that DID pull out and commending them?  A reverse Boycott?
Jan 25, 2011 7:12 AM Guest L. Lindsay  says:

Proverbs 1:28-33  "Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find m.  Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord, since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit oftheir schemes.  For the waywardness of the simple will dill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them, but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease without fear of harm."  Proverbs 2:12  "Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, who leave the straight paths to walk in dark ways, who delight in doing wrong and rejoicein the perverseness of evil, whose path are crooked and who are devios in their ways"
Jan 25, 2011 7:22 AM Guest waynene  says in response to Dean H.:

Since I don't and won't watch MTV, please list their sponsors. I will boycott and notify the corporation that I am doing so and why.

Thanks
Jan 28, 2011 4:48 PM Guest Markdf  says:

It's the natural result of the court's interpretation of unfettered free "speech."  MTV as with the rest of TV, Web, and video games do not convey speech so much as imagery.  And God's word is filled with warnings about imagery.  I am all for good and original art, but that is not what we are talking about here.  If the founding fathers could have foreseen typical TV, they would have written the first amendment differently.  And where in scripture does God promote such a concept of unfettered free speech?

There has always been loads of money to be earned off morbid fascination and lust. It's also the natural result of evangelicals' own behavior.  When we spend our leisure time watching Christian TV, playing Christian video games, going to Christian theme parks, and otherwise decorating the walls of our Christian ghetto, while allowing our taxes to go toward a $1 trillion military budget (including States portion of military) that we could otherwise spend on outreach ministries; when we exchange Christian mission (Matt. 28:20) for Christian "lifestyle" and won't spend even an hour a week helping an illiterate person learn to read, why should we be surprised when the "surrounding culture" sinks further into a threatening moral decay?
Jan 25, 2011 7:26 AM Guest MARIA  says in response to Farmer Jack:
Right on! God bless you. Thank you for the radio idea.
Jan 25, 2011 7:28 AM Guest Roger  says:
When my children were young (BD's in March 1970 & August 1976), MTV was in it's infancy and their major programming was mainly rock videos.  I would not let my children watch based on the suggestiveness of their videos at that time.  I have never seen MTV other than passing thru while channel surfing but I can imagine, in todays liberal media, that it is 10 times worse now.  I encourage young parents today to NOT let any media steal your child's innocence.  Stand fast to the song we all learned in Sunday school, "Be careful little eyes what you see, be careful little ears what you hear".
Jan 25, 2011 7:40 AM Guest Sue  says:

Taco Bell pulled their advert from "Skins" b/c of content.  I wrote a letter to Taco Bell and thanked them for their stand.  I hope you will, too!
Jan 25, 2011 7:44 AM Guest lisabeth  says in response to b:
The actors are from ages 15-19.  Here's a link to a NY Times article about it.  http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/20/business/media/20mtv.html
Jan 25, 2011 7:44 AM Guest CeCe  says in response to John:
John, Thanks for your honest note. As a Mom who does many consumer research surveys, one of the points I try to make with companies is how difficult it is to raise a "gentleman" in today's society, and with the media images swirling around us. My son is only 10, but we speak with him often about things that seem innocent, like comic books. We speak of body-image, costuming, etc. as set out in tv and books like this - that that's not what real people (women mostly) look/act like. We speak about what a Godly man/woman looks & acts like, and try to instill in him a desire to seek that in his life. I know that his struggle is only beginning at this young age, and thank God that we've found a good church home that will help us as we raise him. Thank God, at least, that as a father you can speak into this area of your children's lives. Even with the fall-out in your own life, you can have such an ampact on others lives.
Jan 25, 2011 9:51 AM Guest christianmom27  says:
"Christians and Republicans were called by God" Everyone is called by God, we should not exclude the liberal side, because we do not know their heart. There are many Christian liberals and to exclude is judging, which we are commanded not to do. Please keep in mind as parents, it is our responsibility to help our children understand what they see on tv. It is also our responsibility to provide was is good and of sound mind for them to be exposed to. If you have an issue with a show on tv or radio, turn it off. It is as simple as that. We can not control the media, but we can control what we put into our minds. MTV has exsisted my entire life, but my parents limited what I watched and limited the friends I had, which intern led to me not watching MTV. Do not put your responsibility as a parent into the hands of the government to limit shows like this from airing on tv that people pay for.
Jan 25, 2011 7:48 AM Guest Naomi  says:
Canceling cable is the way to go. More and more people are opting out of this luxury for financial and other reasons. We haven't had cable in nearly 3 years. It's equaled more money in our checkbook and more time because we're not just sitting in front of the TV all the time. With two small kids, we find good quality programming for them on PBS and on video at the library.
Jan 25, 2011 10:04 AM Guest Michelle  says:
   We don't watch MTV at our house but, I am still more than aware of this obnoxious, perverse show. They are running commercials for it on other more kid friendly networks. The advertisments alone are offensive. While watching kid friendly TV with my children I was disgusted to have to turn the channel, not for programming but, due to a Skins commercial that kept running at commercial break. I was a child of the 80's, the first MTV generation. With little parental supervision at home I got plenty of time sitting in front of MTV videos. I remember feeling confused by a lot of it. Men wearing more makeup than I did, androgenous women, strange lifestyles and very little modesty. Without the guideance of a Christian parent I believed that this must be reality somewhere and I just didn't measure up. Sad to say it has only gotten worse on MTV. Their brand of reality T.V. in addition to music and commentary must leave avid watchers thinking it's OK to be abusive, angry, homosexual, unwed and pregnant, promiscuous, a liar and a cheater with no respect for other people especially, your own parents. And ultimately that's where the blame truely lies. If there were not such large numbers of kids whose parents either think it's fine or don't want to bother to spend time knowing what their kids are doing, MTV wouldn't have an audience. Audience drives programming and American parents are driving MTV straight to the bank and their children to who knows what.
Jan 25, 2011 7:50 AM Guest Kari  says:
I wasn't able to watch MTV as a teen in the 80's back when it was only music! I can't imagine what it looks like now. I am so frustrated  at the influence of this world on our children. It is increasingly difficult to contol what they are exposed to even at school. Sad! Is there something we can do to get these types of shows off the air?
Jan 25, 2011 7:53 AM Guest Jackie R  says in response to Scott M.:
I aree, even better get a subscription to Skyangel, Christian satelite TV. Support a good cause!
Jan 25, 2011 10:16 AM Guest Sam J.  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

BBMamaGrizzly, there's a big difference, in the persuit of free capitalism, between being 'Christian and Republican' and 'Christian and Anarchist.' As Jim stated, they're just about bumping up against established federal laws, laws which are there not primarily to limit our liberties or impinge on free market capitalism, but to protect us. Romans 13 has been abused, but it is still true.

 

That said, I think your idea of boycotting sponsors is a good one. To make the link clear, we should create some kind of forum where people can sign on, saying why they are boycotting business A, B, C, etc. otherwise who will trace the sales stats back to one of the many places these businesses advertise?

 

Also, I think our allegiance to Christ should be superlatively important enough to trump any political allegiance, to the point that I do not think they should ever be coupled in such a sentence as "Christians and Republicans."
Jan 25, 2011 7:58 AM Guest Penny  says:
I am 28.  Married with one (toddler) child.  My husband and I abandoned tv when they went all digital---we just didn't get a converter box to begin with.  It was hard at first, but now, two years later, we get so much more done!  And we can easily get movies and Appropriate shows (like Sesame Street) on DVD.  No commercials.  No horrendous news.  No regular, consistent media scares.  No staying up late to watch L&Order SVU and then wonder where the bad dreams are coming from.  It's been GREAT.
Jan 25, 2011 8:03 AM Guest Amber  says:

I really dont know what this show is in regards to but after the things I have read about it I wouldnt even attempt to stomache that disgust. I am 22 and I am engaged to be married, I limit my own TV to certain things as well as my soon to be husband, I personally have caught glimpses of Teen Mom 2 and 16 & Pregnant, but even those shows disgust me, we are promoting to our children that premarital sex is ok, where have all our values gone. I feel as thou if things were like they were went our grandparents were growing up we wouldnt have half the problems we do now. I do not wish to expose the children I plan to have to the scum of the world by allowing myself to be involved. I am not perfect and no one is but honestly I will not use the excuse that I am a sinner to allow myself to become anymore part of this world than I am. I have learned long ago that God will always love and always forgive but that doesnt give us the excuse to live as thou we dont know the rules and sadly enough I have seen Christians live that way and it sickens me. MTV when i was a kid stood for Music Television, someone explain to me what Skins, Jersey Shore, Teen Mom 2 and all of the other disgust on this channel has to do with anything about Music, NOTHING! MTV should be banned and shut down indefinitely!
Jan 25, 2011 9:23 AM Guest Jonelyn  says in response to Suzan:
Have you heard of Sky Angel?  It is Christian cable that comes through the internet into your home (they send you a box to access it).   It has the shows you are used to like Animal Planet plus lots of Christian channels, Christian music stations, and wonderful "pay per vue" options (fiction and non-fiction). My children (11 and 8) and I have watched many amazing & educational movies.  I don't have to worry about commercials anymore.  They have actually become a bigger concern for me because they pop up unexpectedly on "regular cable & TV" and push values that I do not want in my home.  Just a suggestion if you want an alternative choice.  PS - we did not have cable or internet in our home for over 3 years, only movies on VHS or DVD.  So, I completely understand the concern about who & what we are letting into our homes.
Jan 25, 2011 8:09 AM Guest James  says:
I love FOTF for their efforts to defend christian family values, but I am having difficulty blaming MTV for the material they are putting out.  MTV is doing what is in their nature to do.  Satan is their leader.  And as far as the governments censorship, they are not far from MTV in their own policies.  If the parents of the millions of children and teens who watch MTV would censor their own homes and stop letting their children watch it, MTV might just go out of business.  Besides, my God is greater, wiser, stronger than any other.  Let us pray and humble ourselves and pray that God would rise up in our hearts and homes and that His righteousness would rain down on us.  When this happens, Satan and the darkness of sin will flee.  Satan will only contol in us what we don't surrender to God!
Jan 25, 2011 8:10 AM Guest melinda  says:
May we devote every ounce of energy in prayer for humanity.  My soul is screaming to protect innocence, purity, moral, & biblical values.  May God help us & may we turn to God for help.
Jan 25, 2011 8:13 AM Guest Amber  says:
I know nothing about what this show is about but I have a feeling after what I read I dont want to know. I am 22 years old and I am engaged and I will be completely honest I monitor what I watch because I see what is out there and I personally dont want to condone it in my life or my fiance's life. I have seen a Jersey Shore epsiode before and needless to say I was at an awe, I sat there and thought to myself what exactly is the point of this show, I am not proud of it personally but it taught me something that I didnt want to be exposed to something like that ever again, I do not condone the Teen Mom stuff, that is just a gate to give our children the ok on premarital sex. These TV shows effect our testimony and I will not allow myself to be involved or the children that I plan to have been infected. I am far from perfect but the fact is no one is perfect, only one person walked this Earth was perfect and He died on the Cross of Calvary for our sins, but we as Christians shouldnt take that for granted and I am sad to say I know Christians that do and it saddens me. What has this world come to, TV shows that condone drinking, sex, and drugs; Music that condone the same thing if not more. I will tell you when I was a kid MTV meant music televison- someone explain to me what exactly Jersey Shore, Teen Mom and Skins has anything to do with music, NOTHING thats the point MTV should be banned indefinitely
Jan 25, 2011 8:19 AM Guest Christina  says in response to Skip:
I am also sickened by the content of TV and will ask my husband if we can get rid of cable, although there is programming that he likes such as sports etc.  I agree it's SUCH a time waster and I find myself enjoying sitting around watching tv too much when I could do other things. Cable tv has become such a commonplace pasttime and sadly we would rather watch "reality" tv insead of actually living life to the fullest as God would want us to.  Thanks for all who commented on here, it encourages me to kill the tv in my home.  As for MTV and other trashy channels, definitely utilize the parental controls and block that stuff from your children!
Jan 25, 2011 8:25 AM Guest Ellen  says in response to Scott:
You are "spot on"!  In fact, you could throw out the TV. We did. My children didn't watch TV until they started going to friends' houses. They ate the cereal I put in front of them (never sugared cereals), they wore the clothes I put on them (hand made), they played with the toys we provided them. No argument, no whining, no fussing. Life is easier without TV. Even if you find a good program, the ads are usually not wholesome. Do yourself a favor: KILL THE TV! Everything you really need to see is on the internet.
Jan 25, 2011 10:43 AM Guest Karen T.  says in response to Beth:
I could not agree more!!!
Jan 25, 2011 8:44 AM Guest Kihisho  says:
Usually I can find at least some redeemable measure even within shows where use of hard drugs, sex, violence and so forth are evident...but in this case I simply cannot find even one reedemable aspect or quality within the "skins" presentation nor MTV itself in modern context.  There was a time many years ago when MTV had at least nominal value culturally and artistically.  But then they "changed over" to primarily "gangsta" (c)Rap and other derivatives, and began to introduce other "shows" that were blatantly and primarily offensive and wrong at several levels...and it's only gotten ever worse apparently.
Jan 25, 2011 10:06 AM Guest Tom  says:

I was a teenager when Mtv first aired, back then they played some racy music videos, but were not a network show creator. Personaly, I stop waching Mtv long before becoming saved. Christian or not, the garbage on Mtv or any tv for that matter, (Desperate house wifes, etc....) needs to go. I laughed during the 80's & 90's (I was not saved) as christians coward to the pressure of being politicaly correct, not wanting to offend any one. The truth sometimes offends, We need to draw a line in the sand and say enough is enough. Does a movie realy need to use God's name in vane for realism. Please. Freedom of speech is about bieng able to speek your mind freely on personal views and issues, not to spit a bunch of garbage out for all to have to ingest. If there is truly, still a moral majority, we need to raise our voice even louder. There is a war brewing. If we don't stand up now, they will run us down later.
Jan 26, 2011 9:43 AM Guest Billyup  says in response to Skip:
Yes, we can sue them, if we can present an "injury" to the court that can be traced to MTV-Skin.  Far and wide, these kids emulate what they see on TV and in the movies.  Just be observant, notice every little disorder or misbehavior that was not there before, and link it to the source.  Think 'evidence!'  There are plenty of Christian advocacy legal agencies, and when cash settlements are involved, any lawyer might do.  Remember: you are not a litigious pest; you are defending your kids, and other kids, too.  MTV is an offender!  The courts are the legitimate arena for this kind of fight.
Jan 25, 2011 10:17 AM Guest Laura  says in response to Beth:
Remember to block out R rated movies from Netflix too (or PG-13 depending on kids' ages).  Without blocking out these movies were are asking for trouble as well.
Jan 25, 2011 9:21 AM Guest Dar  says:
I found the BLOCK key to be very useful.    My husband and i decided when we got dish what could be watched  in the family room ( living room)   We decided  on G, PG, and some PG -13 If a movie or show has  violence, sex, language then kids arent allowed to watch it. MTV was the first  to go.   i remeber  when i was a child and MTV was kinda ok. But never was good for any teen.  My mom didnt mind what we watched..  We however do care and preferr not to allow trash in the  minds of our young children let alone our teenagers.  There is so much more  that is out there that we arent able to control and that is scary  for parents.  Times are so different when we grew up and way different from when our parents grew up..  I remember when they wouldnt show a middriff cause it was offensive  now it  doesnt matter what the TV ppl  do.  Seems  there are no more  rules.. LETS GO BACK TO  BASICS....   Thank you.
Jan 25, 2011 9:23 AM Guest Larry  says:
I am curious why rock n roll always takes such a serious beating, if all are truthful any genre of music has trashy videos attached to it's music. Enough said on that topic, for those that really want to watch wholesome viewing and no I am not affiliated nor getting any monies from them- skyangel network is an christian alternative for family viewing. It also has realistic fees for use.
Jan 25, 2011 10:25 AM Guest Jenn  says in response to Emily:
I'm 33 and married with 2 kids of my own and I have seen the show 16 and Pregnant. Those are babies having babies.  Its easy to get wrapped in because that is not my life. I can turn it off and walk away, but it sends the wrong message especially for kids watching that show. Instead of teens watching and saying - wow that's not the life I want to live. They watch it and learn "Oh that's how I get on tv, every magazine cover and become famous!"  At th end of they day they are glamorizing teen pregnancy. Those kids (having babies) and the kids they had will never have a normal life. Not the life God intended for them to live.
Jan 25, 2011 10:30 AM Guest chuck  says:

i must confess that i am of a generation which does not appreciate this type of "entertainment" i do not regularly watch. what little i have seen seems to appeal to the baser instincts of humanity

this next comment does not apply to all parents today but i do believe that to the majority it does. Parents who were raised on this material often do not know the scriptures and therefore are mislead to believe that they are their childrens friends. you are not. you are their examples and mentors which means you will be called on to say no and to educate yourselves to what your children are being exposed to, and protect them. this does not mean you sit down with your child to judge unfit material. you should have already done this and when the question of "can i watch this" your answer is NO. It's time to man up.
Jan 25, 2011 10:35 AM Guest David  says:

We cancelled the cable, and turned off the TV when we realized we were spending more money to have this trash delivered to our home than we were paying the refuse company to haul it off!  That was about 12 years ago.  and even then, Mtv was not allowed to be watched in our home.

 

As other comments have mentioned, we also testify to the blessings we've received in family time, activies, and teaching and learning life lessons with our children, that otherwise would've been impossible with the TV blaring all the time.  Bottom line here is TV is THE #1 Time Waster in existance today!

 

Remember when Ricky and Lucy, Ozzie and Harriet, et al, wore night clothes and slept in separate beds??  Comedy without the sex was usually pretty funny.  Inject the sex and it becomes obnoxious and offensive. Many of the old TV shows actually had some form of socially redeeming value.  They could define good versus bad; light versus the darkness.  TV at one time actually had a conscience.  Sadly, this is no longer true.

 

Mtv is not the only show that deserves to be flushed, but is certainly up near the front of the line!

 

Check out Josh Turner's song "Long Black Train".  The lyrics tell it all.
Jan 25, 2011 9:34 AM Guest Ashley  says:

Be careful even with PBS. I sat down when I was 13 to watch a PBS special performance of my favorite ballet, Swan Lake.

 

I wasn't 15 minutes into it when I noticed something disturbingly wrong. There was no girl in a white swan tutu. There was a guy. They had re-worked the entire performance to be the story of a homosexual man and his prince-lover. It was still swan lake, but the main character was now a man. Not just played by a man. Actually about a man.

 

So even PBS has its evils.
Jan 25, 2011 9:41 AM Guest Wendy M  says:

Mtv is horrid and so are most other channels.  The sitcoms these days push sex, violence and anti-Christian themes on a daily basis.  Why are they not in trouble for "hate crimes" like Christians are when we speak out against homosexuality?

 

I took out tv all together in my house about 3 years ago.  I have so much more time to spend with my family and chasing my nephew around the parks or around my living room.  I do not miss the hours spent in front of the tv.  It is on all day at my job; if no one is in the room, I turn it off.  Even the news is ridiculous with its dramatization of events.  What happen to the facts?  What happened to sharing good news?  These "personalities" are just actors getting paid mega $$ to spread lies and negativity.

 

I think we should go back to radio only.  I'm in my 30s, and wish tv was never invented.
Jan 25, 2011 9:46 AM Guest Tim  says in response to Mike E.:
I like your response Mike E.   I fight is not against flesh and blood (or the TV).  Satan will use any and all tactics he can to get our children.  And I know as all these parents and adults have disclaimed cable/dish/internet/TV, they would be hard pressed to actually do something dramatic enough to save themselves and there children the heartache.  If your EYE causes you to sin 'POKE IT OUT'.   As RADICAL as it may sound, try unplugging your TV, not having any cable at all, no Netflix.  Then it's amazing, none of those images get into your house.
Jan 25, 2011 9:46 AM Guest Trinie  says:
Just the commericals are repulsive. When we are watching tv and the commerical comes on I will change the channel to avoid seeing it.I have not and will not watch that show. My husband and I do not watch MTV and I have a lock on our TV's so my 11 yr. old son is not allowed to watch it either. We have to do what we can to avoid this trash from entering our homes. We can not stop this type of show from being broadcast but we can stop what is viewed in our own homes.
Jan 25, 2011 9:52 AM Guest Michelle  says:
About four years ago we cancelled cable.  The best thing that we ever did.  Now we only watch DVD's that we choose as a family to watch together.  My husband and I have 3 teenage daughters and even though they complain sometimes...they really don't miss it.  I don't miss it.  I remember MTV as a kid and agree that the programming is getting worse and not just on that channel.  We save money, time, and our children's sanity...and ours by doing what we did.  Would do it again in a heartbeat.  We are making the effort to change our lives and not wait for someone else to think about whether they are going to do it for us...ie..."Studio Executives".  Old fashioned, so to speak, works for us and it works for our children.
Jan 25, 2011 11:06 AM Guest Constance  says in response to Suzan:
My kids have never been allowed to watch MTV 1 or 2 or VH1 or any of the other channels with really bad content with Directv I can block those channels so my kids can't even get to them. I also love having Tivo so that we fast forward commercials. The only commercials we have seen for years are the ones that creep across the bottom of the screen during the program and pictures and endorsements during the programs. We also watch TLC, Discovery, History, Food, more educational programming that is fun and entertaining.  We have Netflix too, so we have lots of options. You can record stuff on Tivo while you are at work or school and see it later so you are not limited to the 7-10 diet they try to feed you.  You have so much more control over the type of programming you get to see. Not everything we watch is edifying. We have our guilty pleasures ( I giggle so hard at the show Wipeout watching people try to finish the obstacle courses even though it is worthless fluff. ) My point is being able to decide what comes in and out of my home. My kids are 18 and 20. They both live at home and commute to college.  They are normal well adjusted and cope fine with the real world. They were home educated one from the 1st grade on and the 2nd from K5 on.  They both graduated with 38-39 credits from my high school ( our local high requires 28) and they had to work very hard at it to prepare them for college.  They haven't been deprived.  We CAN CONTROL what comes into our homes. We don't have to let it all in. We vote with our cash!
Jan 25, 2011 11:22 AM Guest Mike  says in response to Suzan:
Even if you block MTV, you're still paying for it, adding to their profits and making more such shows possible.
Jan 25, 2011 11:30 AM Guest rebecca  says:

I really think its out of our hands by now. But not Gods hand. He can turn things around. I think we need to pray more than ever, that God would intervene.  Lets pray.
Jan 25, 2011 10:27 AM Guest Lynn  says:
I haven't seen the show, we don't have cable.  It's a waste of money and public television and dvd's are just fine for our 3 and 5 year old boys.  Plus Netflix is much cheaper and has plenty of family friendly options.  Any way, what can we do to clean up tv so the millions of children who's parents don't care about what they watch don't have to see this stuff?  I'm not all about raising kids who don't know what's going on in the world, but all in due time.  There will be a time that they will know what goes on in other peoples lives...but they don't need to know or see it at this age.  Far too many kids see way more than their amazingly inteligent minds should have to process!  I can't wait till Jesus comes back, because I know that's when sin will not rule any longer and these things won't happen.  In the mean time, what would God have us do?  Realistically, lets think about it!  Any ideas?
Jan 25, 2011 10:30 AM Guest Jewels  says:
WOW!! I've never had cable - not even as a child so I don't know what MTV was back then and I only know a glimpse of what it is because its on the regular network on channel 62 or 63 - it's MTV Latino (or something like that).  My daughters (14 & 12) only watch it for like 1/2 and hour and then I pick them up from my parents house.  And still, I have to turn it off because of what they are showing on a particular day - but it's mostly videos and those can be pretty bad.  I am glad my coworker forwarded me this article because I have been thinking about getting cable - that thought is out the door!! I don't need soemthing that will create problems w/ my teen and tween.
Jan 25, 2011 11:34 AM Guest John  says:
MTV is being financially supported by 99% of those (us) with a Cable or Satellite Package. This repulsive channel is almost always included in the viewer's package. This is wrong because the consumers are being forced to send funds to a channel most would not if they had a real choice regarding sponsorship. This must be stopped and everyone needs to write every congressperson and senator and the White House to get the needed anti-monopoly legislation to do this. Consumers must be given a real choice as to which channels they send money to and which ones they will not send money to!! That is what America is supposed to be about!
Jan 25, 2011 11:09 AM Guest Tonya  says in response to Scott M.:
I could not agree with you more of what you shared with us. My husband and I have recently cancelled our Direct TV & Cable and tried something new... "Sky Angel" and have actually not been hurting that we are not watching as many sports or classic movies. My kids watch shows that are educational and fun without the garbage thrown into them. There might be a couple of complaints with our service in comparison to what we had before BUT it sure is worth the sound TV viewing. We have commitments that are not interfered with because we are not watching too much of what we liked to watch when we had the other TV services. TV can become a distraction of what you really should be doing or paying attention to like "family" activities with your children or spending time with God or responsibilities that need to be handled. It's okay to spend some time watching TV but it's what you watch and even if it's a good program, it's how long you watch it. We try to watch children's movies "with" our children to make it a "family" experience of being together and enjoying it. It's really an encouragement when you find people that are on the same page as you. It's our Christian responsibility to stand up for what is righteous and stomp on what is of a sinful nature. I like what John Wayne wanted to teach his little girl at such a young age... "The Lord's Prayer"... It's so vital and not to mention what the Bible says about how to live our lives as Christians in this world. Thank you!
Jan 25, 2011 11:11 AM Guest linda  says:
As the technology expands the way in which we get mutliple channels into our house, techology also makes it easier to monitor those shows....If you can afford cable, then you can afford a DVR!  Then, take control of those channels.  Anything over a PG rating in our house recquires my parental code to unlock the show.  If I could just get my husband to remember the code I would be set! HA  but seriously, we really enjoy the great shows on history, science, the national/world news, and lets not forget football and the Olympics and a lot of good movies and  great cartoons out there that we all enjoy.  Plus, I have one guide that I created with my remote that doesn't even show that we have any of the music channels, LOGO channell, or anything else that I find offensive to my family.  I also can block all adult channells.  Is the system perfect?  Of course not.  But, did I mention we only have one t.v. in our house?  DVR actually provides one more great feature....we mainly watch recorded shows so we can fast forward through all the commercials...lets not forget how offensive and inappropriate commercials and previews of other shows can be!  I encourage everyone to invest in a DVR ....we literally watch less t.v., because what we do watch is controlled and our time is maximized!
Jan 25, 2011 11:21 AM Guest Danielle  says:
Had to talk my husband into buying a TV 10 years ago so we'd at least be able to watch news once in a while using our wonderful rabbit ears. We enjoy occasionally watching quality, free DVDs from the library instead of paying for any sort of cable/DISH/Netflick service. Our kids are living wonderful, "protected" lives spending their time outside or indoors with games and building projects. Too bad we're probably a very minority statistic in America these days. I'm over caring what society is doing. My husband and I are determined to do what we think will be best for ourselves as well as our children.
Jan 25, 2011 11:33 AM smithlegs smithlegs    says:
I work with several Christian women that watch shows like Desperate Housewives and defend it or say, "I know that I shouldn't watch it but...".  We as parents must make the change in our homes and in ourselves and understand that everything we let into our homes affects our children whether or not they see it, because, the change happens on the spiritual level; it seduces our heart.  We must constantly protect our hearts and be on alert to satan rattling the doorknob trying to get in.  The Lord convicted me about four years ago and I stopped my cable service. Period.  Parents practice what you preach first.  For mothers, model modesty and the qualities of a lady; for fathers, responsibility, spiritual leadership, and especially under the subject of this discussion, respect for women.
Jan 25, 2011 11:40 AM Guest Casey  says:
I am 31 years old. I am currently in a 12 step recovery program (a Christ-centered version of AA) I am recovering not from drugs or alcohol, but various struggles with relationships.  Through this I have been delving into my past to uncover some of my hurts, habits, and hang-ups and their causes.  I strongly feel the media I was exposed to growing up including music, t.v., and movies very much affected the extremely poor decisions I made as a teenager and young adult.  Now that I have turned my life over to Jesus I don't feel the need to submerge myself in all the trash that I used to.  Now I see how detrimental it was... I'm living proof of how damaging it truly is. The good news is that  I am also living proof of God's amazing grace and how Jesus can transform a broken life!
Jan 25, 2011 11:41 AM Guest Teri  says:
Block it! If that doesn't work remove the subscription or take the TV out of the house. Yes, I have done all of the above when I had a child that worked overtime on breaking every parental code I could put into place. He ended up without a TV. There have never been TVs in kids' bedrooms and never will be but they had one in the basement which was taken out due to noncompliance. We can't depend on the secular entertainment industry to protect our children. That is our job according to God. With adopted foster children so we have encountered everything you can imagine and we just keep keeping on and putting God first. We pray that it will all pay off someday. Train them up..... not depart from it.
Jan 25, 2011 11:48 AM Guest Johanna  says in response to Tabitha :

You are so right Tabitha, the problem starts with the parents who don't want to acknowledge their own responsibility in parenting. It's hard work to say NO and stick to it. But I can assure you it is very much worthwhile the trouble. Even Teachers of my children told us: what ever it is you are doing with your children, keep doing it...they where amazed about my childrens concentrations level and good behavior . For 8 years we didn't have a TV at all and later we allowed only what we thought could help their knowledge in education like animal or nature channel, but we always watched with them and corrected and explained the message (creation/evolution). The hard work is establishing the rules after that it's a breeze. The bible tells us to train our children in the right way (of live) when they are young, so they wont stray when they are old. With the help of God we can do it.

My 5 children are all grown ups now with no TV (their own choice), a good education and a love for God.
Jan 25, 2011 12:16 PM Guest Sherrill  says:
I live in the Bay Area. Just last week, two second-grade children were performing sexual acts on each other while the teacher was present. Needless to say, the shockwaves that went through the community and the uproar that came about because of this are still reverberating through the Bay Area. The male teacher has been suspended, or possibly fired, not sure which. What was so sad, though, was how did these little children even know what this was?? What were they watching at home, what could they possibly have been subjected to, who warped their young sweet minds into thinking this was ok? Sure...fire the teacher, he should have known what was happening in his own classroom.. but you better check the home life too, because its not all the teacher's fault!! I was literally nauseated when I heard of this, and I could not help myself from crying as I sporadically listened to the news feed. I just couldn't handle it. I have young grandchildren. Thank God my daughter can't afford cable...because the insidious pull of that garbage draws you in until you are over your head, and then...oh, its so hard to get out. Pray, my friends...pray, support your local church, your local government officials who are in favor of banning things like this, put all you can into it, but mostly, pray...
Jan 25, 2011 12:03 PM Guest Jen  says:

I watched to show last night to see for myself what all the hype is about, and to draw a conclusion  without simply relying on what I've read or heard.

The show was very disturbing- at any age, but in particular because it deals with very young adults. And I'm not just talking about the characters. I mean the actors themselves. We have to remember that although the story is not real, the actors are. I can't imagine young people acting these things out. There is no way they can't be afffected by their actions.

Secondly, the show claims to be the "secret life of teens". Whatever! It's not the life of any teens I know, maybe there is a small minority who behave and live this way. Nor do I know of any Holocaust survivor grandmothers who came over from Germany with their lesbian lover. This is supposed to be real? It's just another example of a small group of minority trying to convince others that their abnormal lifestyles are mainstream.

I, personally, and sick and tired of the sexual explotation of children. It is a constant, daily battle to guard my children's hearts from becoming "sexed" at too young of an age.
Jan 25, 2011 12:20 PM Guest Liz  says:
My husband and I were just having this conversation the other day.  It is sick any way that you look at it, but when you start bringing to light how a show like this is written and produced and filmed and who is writing, producing and filming it, you begin to realize how sick THEY really are.  I am totally disgusted and disturbed by this.  We as parents need to wake up and realize how important it is to engrave the morals and values that Jesus Himself laid out when are children are young and re-enforcing them as they grow.  Here is a news flash too.  MTV maybe coming out with edgy stuff all of the time, but Disney is the precursor to that with their pre-teen shows and their music videos.  Wake up and rise up Christian parents, when we sleep Satan takes action!
Jan 25, 2011 12:31 PM Guest karin  says in response to Suzan:
Suzan, I agree!. Since getting satellite in 2001 (because of sports)  all the unsavory channels have been blocked.  Add USA and HBO to the BLOCKED list!
Jan 25, 2011 12:32 PM Guest Liz  says in response to b:
b, I heard on one news report that some of the actors and actresses were as young as 15.
Jan 25, 2011 1:40 PM Guest mentor mom  says:
Can God's judgment on our society be far away - I don't think so when we are corrupting the  minds of the next generations.
Jan 25, 2011 2:02 PM Guest Erin  says:
Start early ... limit TV viewing time from the very beginning and limit it for yourself as well. The only TV in our house is in our living room, behind a cabinet and it's used only an hour to two hours a day ... including weekends. My kids are 8, 5 and 2 and I have already talked to the oldest two about the images we sometimes see on TV and that they are not acceptable nor are they always realistic. We stress that once you let something into your head/heart it will always remain there. We even sing the song, "Oh be careful little eyes what you see..." BTW ... we do not have cable TV ... just free basic television. My husband and I saw a preview for MTV's Skins while at the movie theatre and I could not believe my eyes! People complain about teen pregnancy and child pornography, but the TV industry is promoting those very things!
Jan 25, 2011 2:11 PM Guest Mary  says:
I read a boast from an MTV executive some years ago saying, "We're not going after the 14-year-olds; we OWN the 14-year-olds!"
Jan 25, 2011 2:20 PM Guest Steve  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

BBMama,

 

your boycott will get some teeth if you also send a letter (and encourage others to do the same) to their corporate HQ informing them that you are pulling your business, and your reasoning behind it.

 

They will ignore it, but if enough people boycott Subway, and their numbers start going down, then they will have an idea as to why.

 

I doubt they will see much of a decline, as I haven't even turned MTrashV on in forever...my kids don't watch it either.

Jan 25, 2011 2:45 PM Guest Ann J.  says:

Yes it's evil, vile and filth. My heart goes out to the young kids who are playing on the show. I wonder are they "real castaways" from homes that rejected them or lack guidance. I am doing two things. 1. Targeting the companies that is still supporting this trash and letting them know that I won't buy their products and will tell others not to. Money seems to be the only thing they will listen to. 2. Praying that the show fails. At least while we are still here on earth. I pray for the kids that they come out of the bondage. I pray that leaders will be moved to influence kids towards God and revival. I pray that godly children will be able to reach out to them. We are living in evil times but we still can light a candle in the dark.
Jan 25, 2011 2:50 PM Guest Annie  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
Where did you find the list of sponsors?
Jan 25, 2011 2:56 PM Guest Bob  says:

In October 1999, Ravi Zacharias was invited to speak to the Littleton Community-{Churches-Youth Leaders and others] for his perspectiveon the massacre at the Littleton High school on Aprit 20, 1999 In one of his messages[video  taped[ was titled "If the Foundations Be Destroyed - What shall we thenDo?

Here are a few extracts from his message as best as I can recall-

In today's culture :"Truth can no longer be propositioned"-"we have a generation[youth] that hears with their eyes- and speaks with its feelings"-NOW is all we have to give Time has no meaning-Theie is no tomorrow

"Truth is relegated to technology -Beauty is relegated to the beholder-"Goodness is mocked by the 'idiot box'"-"Nothing is sacred-Language is not sacred-Relationships are not sacred-Pleasure is not sacred-Grief is not sacred"-Once you have emptied your life of its[this] content, the only way to affirm oneself is to express it with ---violence and sex and other abuse and go down laughing" "There is no answer outside of Jesus Christ.-The World's view is becoming just like the air we breath"

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jan 25, 2011 3:16 PM Guest TCKHC  says in response to Cee:
I also have the hard time of trying to watch out for my daughter who lives with her father and step mom and visits us. I can't decide what they watch in their home. And I know they watch channels that I don't even watch myself and they let her watch them. It is so difficult to try to protect our children anymore.
Jan 25, 2011 3:34 PM JessicaFOTF JessicaFOTF    says:

Hey Everyone-what a great discussion you've got going on here! And, it looks like some of you have taken the time to post some good comments about capitalism.  However, although we appreciate these posts, we'd like to encourage everyone to ensure that your comments are specific to the topic of Jim's blog. Thanks-keep the thoughts coming!

Jessica

FOTF Moderator
Jan 25, 2011 3:35 PM Guest Cordell  says:
MTV does not have any redemptive programming. It's not surprising that they are seeking to spew more vitriol into the impressionable minds of our youth. My wife and I read a preview about this show in our newspaper's weekly TV guide and saw it for the garbage it was. Thank God for Focus on the Family and wonderful work you do!
Jan 25, 2011 4:21 PM Guest Marie  says:

Thank you John above for posting your story about watching MTV and The Grind at age 12, and the addictions and issues that followed.  To every person on here who is a parent:  Your children WILL watch trash if you have cable in your home.  I snuck MTV all the time and my parents never knew, and I grew up with serious image and body issues, as well as sexual overdrive.  They will find a work around on your little security system on the TV.  To say the least the world and MTV in particular puts the emphasis on something that is not important, completely ungodly, and really an abomination.  NO CHRISTIAN should be paying money to fund filth.

 

We have been cable free for 2 years now and I know my little girls will never have to see that. To the parents who let their children stay over at their friends houses:  STOP being that type of parent!  Stand up to your children and just say no.  My parents didn't have Playboy or other pornographic magazines in our house, but every one of my friends had something like it in theirs, and we would read them cover to cover.  Don't count on your standards for your kids being upheld at someone else's house, whether they are Christians or not.  I was having sex by 15 just like my friends.  YOU have to be the one who has the most influence on your kids, and if your kids get really close to other kids, your clout will be lost.

 

God has set me free though from a life of sin and TV!  I am so thankful to him for his amazing grace that saved this wretch!

 

Our girls will never sleep over anywhere except on special occasions at their Grandma's, they were given to us by God to take care of them and we don't loan them out for the night.
Jan 25, 2011 4:36 PM Guest janicelynn  says:
Nothing much good in MTV.  For years I have had MTV along with BET (Black Entertainment Television) and VHS blocked so that they do not even come into our home.
Jan 25, 2011 5:54 PM Guest Sharon  says:
Thank YOU for speaking out on this. MTV is beyond disgusting. Until we all take a stand, this filth will not only continue, but get worse and succeed in corrupting our children. I hope the producers and everyone associated with this show get prosecuted. I have had it blocked for years -- none of my children ever have seen this network in our home  Ever.
Jan 25, 2011 8:21 PM Guest Vivian  says:
Thank you for keeping us abreast of what's happening in the world.  Years ago we made the decision to outlaw TV in our home; we now only watch carefully screened, uplifting DVD's.  We have never regretted the decision.  Why place our tender young children in front of filth day in and day out?  WE want to be influencing them with godly viewpoints, not leaving it up to Hollywood.  I say, "pull the plug!"  Blessings!
Jan 25, 2011 8:34 PM Guest Suzan  says in response to Cherie:
I totally agree.  It's time we all take a stand and call our cable companies to tell them enough is enough.
Jan 27, 2011 4:49 PM Guest Debbie  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

We don't have cable, never have in our 12 years of marriage.  There's better things to do.  We watch a show a day on Hulu.

Jan 26, 2011 6:40 AM Guest Jules  says:

I totally think that we should at the very least limit what come through our TV. Like, I know that I don't live in a household that follows Christ, and my parents are very against it. So I can't entirely control what goes on my TV, but I hear some stuff and it truly is garbage.

Certainly when I move out in the next couple years, I will be limiting whats on my TV as well, if not getting rid of Cable entirely.
Jan 26, 2011 6:41 AM Guest Carrie  says:
Just say No the the PROGRAMS, people! They call it television programs for a reason...it is mind-control and nothing less. Skins won't last as it is aimed at a very jaded generation, with very short attention spans; hopefully, the pendulum will swing in the opposite direction, sooner than later...We are to lead by example as parents, as believers. I work near the largest Christian church/congregation on the West Coast; where I work is a great place, with a clientele on the high end of the economic scale. Many of our clients are from the various churches in the area. Why I share this is that I see mothers and their daughters together on a regualr basis and more often than not, one can't distinguish the secular from the believers...mothers dress even sexier than the daughters and modesty is not in abundance. So sad; very attractive people so desperate for approval...and parents wonder why their children are so impressionable. The message sent is one of conformity to the world, not what pleases the Lord.
Jan 26, 2011 7:10 AM Guest Missy  says in response to Scott:
I completely agree. We too have cancelled our cable about a year ago. It was having such a negative affect on our children (now 15 and 12) that I really felt God leading us to get rid of it. If only all parents could or would see that garbage for what it is. I can't  tell you how many of my kids friends are allowed to watch whatever they want with no restrictions at all and they expose my kids to it when they go over their houses. It makes me crazy when parents don't ask my permission before corrupting my child.  Love the scripture you chose.
Jan 26, 2011 8:12 AM Guest Gerson  says:
I noticed that Susan Long's mom on the Miami Herald article watched the shows with her. My question is, how many parents are still supporting their children's viewing of these shows, including "Christian" parents?
Jan 26, 2011 8:26 AM Guest Rhonda  says in response to Janice:
I totally aggree with you Janice. I have a daughter who watches stuff like that with her children. She is so blind and can't see what she is doing to her kids. When I say something to her it only makes her angry.It is messing up their mind and it breaks my heart, but she is an adult and I can't so anything about it. I think the show should be shut down, but in the mean time cancel cable. My daughter is 33. She should know better too.
Jan 26, 2011 3:47 PM Guest Jacob G.  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:
Yes this is sad and aggravating.  But it's much more important to work and live for God's kingdom than America.  God is supporting this country and we can always replace bad programs with good ones so there's no need to feel confused.  Follow the Bible and listen to God's voice and the answer will usually be very clear.
Jan 26, 2011 9:47 AM Guest Beth  says:
Yes, I agree that this evil and that action should be taken.
Jan 26, 2011 10:33 AM Guest Joanie  says:

Back in the early 90s, when my children were 7 and 10, I refused to allow them to watch MTV.  I had sat and watched it with them to see what it was about before making that decision.  I was appalled at the disrespect for adults and authority that it was promoting through comedy and the music they were airing.  When my children began sneaking to watch MTV, I had the cable disconnected and simply used rabbit ears - received 11 stations anyway.  (Nowadays one cannot do that because digital transmission has resulted in stations reducing the kind of transmission that can be received through those government-subsidized converters, but basic cable IS an option.

 

I would say MTV has done a lot to destroy our children's sense of boundaries, right & wrong and opinions of themselves (self esteem).  It is more important than ever to know what our children are watching, to listen to the music they are listening to, and to put personal computers in a public area in the homes so that we can monitor what they are seeing.  I am now raising my grandchildren (6 and 7 years old) and I even monitor their cartoons.  It is difficult, but in the long run it's easier to control what they learn than to unlearn an attitude.

 

Even so, there is still no guarantee children won't rebel and make unnecessary mistakes that will scar them for their lives.  We just have to do the best we can to defend them against the arrows of Satan.  I truly believe we are accountable to God for how we rear our children.
Jan 27, 2011 2:54 PM Guest Lisa S.  says:

It truly is disturbing to see what Man is capable of doing. YES, the end times are near and the things will get worse, as we are told in the Bible!

I feel sorry and sad for parents these days and for children whose innocense is stolen so early. Parents need to guard their children from the things of this world, which is difficult to do with the internet, etc. It really is up to the Parents and teachers and the Church to be positive influences.

I would also like to comment about banning these programs and that means  BIG government, right????! I am certainly for censoring particular programs and keeping them from broadcast. If it isn't edifying, inspirational, educational, etc. then it should not be allowed, but that's BIG government! If this show could be considered child pornography then it has a good chance it will not continue to air. YES!!! We need regulations to protect us from many things, NOT just what's on TV.
Jan 26, 2011 12:47 PM Guest Traci  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

I am a little concerned by the concept that the government has no God-ordained authority over nastyness on television.  1 Peter 2:14 tells us that "governors are sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good."  Romans 13 tells us that rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad.  Unfortunately, our rulers do not wield God's Word as our standard of behavior, but certainly it would be appropriate for our God-ordained governing authority to set boundaries and to punish or charge fines over the evil flooding our televisions today.  Overall, it is a fine line to know what falls within the government's sphere of influence and when it becomes the government overreaching.  I do not think it is socialistic for true evil in our world to be legislated or punished.
Jan 26, 2011 1:42 PM Guest Lisa  says:
I'm hearing many here are canceling cable or satellite, and I think that's great -- especially if a parent can't always be there after school with their children.  Here's a suggestion if cutting cable doesn't work for you.  I have 3 children - twins -14 yrs. & a son 17 yrs.  We've never had MTV in our home. The kids never have watched it, but they've heard from us that it's a bad channel.  When the kids were little, we could not afford cable, so we bought rabbit ears for the TV.  Now we have limited economy cable with no MTV, but one day when the cable crew came to repair our cable - they didn't have the clamp to limit our cable viewing, so they left it this way, but we're paying for limited cable.  Anyway, we have blocked MTV ourselves by remote & anyone can do this.  Our kids are teens & don't care since they've never been hooked to MTV.  Also, I'm fortunate to have been a stay-at-home mom & I've had jobs with short hours where I could pick the kids up after school & moniter what they do after school -- and this helps.  I understand that not everyone can do this.  The reason we have limited cable is that it is cheaper to get internet service through cable.  Our kids are teens now, and they need the internet for school.  Some teachers rely on it to show homework assignments, outlines, itineraries, and even for online textbooks.  The high school counselors also show weekly/monthly scholarship opportunities & the high school website shows daily school buletins/news.  So as your children get older, it will get more difficult to moniter that too.  You can't protect them from everything, but I have found the following helpful (besides blocking channels):  We watch Andy Griffith, Bonanza, Little House & other good retro shows & got the kids hooked on them when  young. We've exposed them to CBN news & have discussions.  We've had to watch who their friends are, especially if they spend time at a friend's house.  Once they had a friend that was a bad influence & we had to not be afraid to say "no" to spending time with that friend & explain the reasons.  We've had family friendly internet filters. We've kept them busy with tutoring, getting them to practice a talent such as a musical instrument, art, sports, etc, and church activities.  Since they were tots, we have regular weekly after school Bible devotions that teach morality & virtues.  Also we have once a year Bible studies, (since they were little) on -- creation versus evolution, sex & marriage (include Leviticus 18), and witchcraft & cults. We've used a good Bible concordance for these, Focus's online book store, The Way of the Master products, and the Christian book store.  This is so the kids are not kept ignorant, but they know the evil out there & what God says about it.  Then when they are 17yrs & driving -- keep teaching & praying hard because you can't be with them all the time.  We try our best with what we know.  Hope this helps someone.
Jan 26, 2011 2:42 PM Guest stevenjaba  says in response to Jon:
Thank you Jon, I'm glad someone said it.
Jan 26, 2011 6:34 PM Guest sue  says:
I got rid of the  T.V.  years ago. But when my dad comes to visit he likes his TV.  So I got sky angel  Great for  thoses folks that are looking for an alternative to trash t.v.  Try sky angel internet TV. a lot lot cheaper. Great Family shows VOD.  a lot of christian programing And no cable needed.
Jan 27, 2011 8:33 AM Guest janet  says in response to Suzan:
You can get a lot of the good tv shows, like from History, Discovery, etc on Netflix. Once it comes out on DVD, Netflix usually gets it. We cut cable two years ago, and have really not missed TV at all. The monetary savings is also good.
Jan 28, 2011 8:00 AM Guest Deonne B.  says:
As a number of other posters have already pointed out, the biggest way we vote is with eyeballs and dollars. These shows are not immune to the power of either. Of course, the other way to vote with our eyes is to seek out and support groups who are not only being a voice against the trash that outlets like MTV can produce, but who are going a step beyond and putting something better out into the marketplace. One good resource to check out is ReloadNow.org. They're relatively new, but I believe they are one of the groups out there prepared to be what Bob Briner called Roaring Lambs.
Jan 28, 2011 6:38 AM Guest Georgia  says:
Parents need to be proactive in their homes by programing the parental controls. I've had great success with that. You can program by set times that kids can view tv without a password, you can program by the particular shows rating, and you can completely block specific networks.
Jan 28, 2011 6:48 AM Guest Diana  says in response to DeeAnn :
As a youth worker and a mom, I applaude you for sitting down with your girls and watching the show with them. This was so much better than just saying no. It gave you the opportunity to express your concerns as you watched it together and showed them that you valued their ideas. That way they could see for themselves, under your watchful eye, why the show had no redeeming qualities. This also shows your girls how to honsetly evaluate at things on their own. It taught them so much more than just forbiding them to watch the program.
Jan 28, 2011 4:26 PM Guest Mom Kate  says:
Unfortunately, I am going to have to turn off the cable.  This means that I suffer a bit, also, because I do like Fox News and a movie now and again.  But, my 14 year old is highly influenced by nastiness that comes from MTV Skins, which I do not allow, Bad Girls Club (she acts this out on me, word for word, action for action).  Well, I'm finally sick of the crud and taking action.  It's gonna be hard, but that's that!  I've had enough!
Jan 29, 2011 12:20 AM Guest DBA Mr.A  says:
I cannot help but feel most of us miss the point.  If you watch TV you are seeing commercials that 50 years ago would not have been allowed because of their offensiveness.  Our government censor's get increasingly worldly as time goes on.  The problem with sin is that the more you are exposed to it the less you notice it.  Does that make it less sinful?  I praise God for those of you who have gone to your knees in prayer about this.  What needs to be considered is, where are you as a parent/person/Christian going to draw the line?  How much sin is acceptable?  Is 30 seconds okay?  Ten seconds of sin, is that okay?  If you call yourself a Christian then you MUST have the same standards Christ had.  Jesus had a ZERO tolerance policy and so does His Father God.. Our Father.  How much sin is in Heaven?  THAT is how much sin we should allow in our lives.  Please Christians, quit compromising your faith.  Live it out to the best of your ability.  Take your Bible's advice, FLEE from sin, don't walk.  Pray earnestly that Jesus will come soon, it is only Jesus and His Grace that can deliver us from this place we live in.
Jan 30, 2011 4:55 PM Guest Kalah  says:
Another MTV output of trash is Jersey Shore.  These 'girls' and 'boys' summer in a beach house and party and sleep around and fight - just another-day-at-the-beach.  Or so it seems.  The show certainly draws in the tweens and teens (or, used to) at my house.
Jan 30, 2011 5:44 PM Guest Sandi  says in response to DeeAnn :
I just want to say that I wish more parents were like DeeAnn and watch the shows with their children before making a decision.  I believe the children will respect their parents decision after they have seen that their parents have actually sat with them and formed their opinion from there.  We need to be more aware of the things are children are watching and not just saying "Go watch TV"
Jan 30, 2011 7:33 PM Guest CM  says:

First of all, I don't agree with MTV or any other station that makes its living out of immorality, this is why I don't own cable neither watch local tv, though I read the news. Parents have the first most responsability in not allowing this content into their homes. It is not good for adults and neither is it for kids. Period.

 

When will the so many Christians that support this programming with their paid subscriptions, so that they can indulge in private of this worldliness wake up and realize: "You can't serve two master. You will love one and despise the other" and also that "Whomever looks over his shoulder while holding the plow in hand is not worthy of the kingdom."

 

I am not a saint, but have come to realize that each one of us is the party responsible from purging these destructive habits out of our lives, to live in the Spirit and not in the Flesh.
Feb 2, 2011 6:52 AM Guest cheekymom  says:
I agree with Robyn. If you must have a cable network, check out this one. You still have to be careful on Halmark due to commercials, but you have sports channels and many Christian channels to choose from. If you can go without cable all together, then Praise God for that!
Feb 3, 2011 11:45 AM Guest Steve B.  says:
Helpful information......  I teach at a public school in Michigan.  I noticed that MTV was blocked at school.  I asked how it was done and was told that the cable provider can put in an inline block.  I called and it was true.  I had MTV blocked permanently by my cable provider.  They said I would have to pay to get it unblocked, but blocking it was free.
Feb 6, 2011 12:41 PM Guest protectouryouth  says:

I am so mad that producers get away with this. You know bottom line, they are not satisfied with all the porn already out there,they have to defile our youth and cross the line because they are so perverted and never satisfied. That is the evil abpout lust....never satisfied. Tell me this doesn't stir up Child Pornography...give me a break...it IS child pornography.

What can we do about this...how can we fight this besides jsut "not watching it" or canceling cable!

This is NOT what freedom of speech was meant for....

I am so angry my 4 beautiful childen have to grow up amongst all this filth.
Feb 15, 2011 8:43 PM Guest Sakia G.  says:

Just watched the the trailer for that show, have MTV blocked on my cable to keep my kids safe and WOW is all I can say. That was horrible.
Feb 16, 2011 2:07 PM Guest Grace  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

I think as Christians that is where we take our stand. Children and all humans should not be exploited. We don't have a problem saying human trafficking is wrong no matter how much it boosts an economy. We need to remember also that teaching our children discernment skills will have an impact on their peers as they begin to interact with kids who don't have parents that teach them. I do not see it as BANNING a program instead we are calling for stopping a flow of behavior that will begin to open the door for exploiting children.
Aug 4, 2011 4:39 PM Guest Ian  says in response to BBMamaGrizzly:

First of all, I don't think that God really has preference in monetary systems as long as people are leading christian lives (love thy neighbor, etc.). Secondly, you make the point yourself that the freemarket tends to make people exploit any oportunity to make money.

 

However, there will always be shows that push the envolope. It is jsut a fact of life. And it's not like teenagers are not imagining things on their own

Actions

Popular Blog Posts