Effects of Entertainment on Human Behavior

With technology becoming a more prominent social tool, more and more people are getting entertainment from outside sources and finding activities through the Internet and on their mobile phones. While some forms of entertainment can be hazardous if not controlled properly, other forms are helpful for learning and assist in relaxing you. The effects of entertainment on human behavior are twofold, because entertainment has both positive and negative effects.

Positive Effects

• Laughter is the best medicine for many people. Doctors recommend it for patients healing from surgery or going through depression. One way of getting a quick fix is by turning on the television and watching a favorite show. Watching a funny show or movie helps relax the body, releases endorphins and boosts the immune system. Some computer games, besides making players happy, are also educational as well. Games like Mahjong or trivia games that can be played online against other players are learning games of skill and are entertaining for most people playing them.

Negative Effects

• Some children and adults are suffering from addictions to video games that they play online or on consoles. Obesity is becoming an issue for the nation, with more people sitting on the couch watching television or playing games. This results in overweight families, depression and illness. With the invention of social networks, such as Facebook, many folks socialize online from bedrooms or living rooms -- not going outside for activity and not having in-person interactions.

Media Violence Effects

• According to a joint statement on the impact of entertainment violence on children

  that the American Academy of Pediatrics and five other prominent medical groups signed:

  "the conclusion of the public health community, based on over 30 years of research, is that viewing entertainment violence can lead to increases in aggressive attitudes, values and behavior, particularly in children." Parents are encouraged to monitor their children's media habits and video game purchases, as well as making time for talking about reality and the difference in what is portrayed in a movie and what is real life.

Suggestions

• Consider having a "No Technology" day at home, where the household participates in turning off cell phones, televisions and computers, opting for playing games together or exploring a museum for entertainment instead. Organize a book club with family members or friends, setting a goal of reading and discussing a new book every month. As parents, monitor your children's purchases and encourage set times for video game play and social networking.