CSUN University News Clippings

California State University Northridge reports that Americans spend four hours a day in front of the television

(November 2, 2009)

By: Adam Brown

Posted: 10/30/09

Are you tired of sitting in front of the TV disappointed in its repetitiveness? California State University Northridge reports that Americans spend four hours a day in front of the television, and by the age of 65 we have spent nine years in front of the tube. I know that regardless of learning this statistic many people will not change their habits, but I suggest that you try going without it for a week to see if you miss it. I personally don’t miss the suggestive, unrealistic advertisements, biased news or what I feel is poor programming.

I’m not saying to throw your TVs out, but I think that they hinder much of the college experience like socializing and interacting between people. I have a no TV policy in my room; try it, you might be surprised when you find that you don’t miss the regurgitated programming or sports events that show more advertisements than actual game time.

Whether we admit it or not, what we watch and listen to does affect our behaviors and thinking. I have quit watching TV and as a result have more time for homework and organizations. Also, I spend more of my free time engaged in creative activities or in conversation with friends and neighbors.

I’m not saying a little TV isn’t bad, but I came to this conclusion after I realized all the hours I spent watching the tube or playing video games felt like a waste of my short life on something that is not real. It seems each generation seeks more and more stimulation and entertainment through objects instead of human interaction and real life experience.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that “Watching TV was the leisure activity that occupied the most time, accounting for about half of leisure time” while socializing with friends and attending events came in second place. I think when our generation is long gone from Western, we will regret the hours spent aimlessly in front of the TV and the opportunities missed.

I decided to go TV-free after I began to keep track of each time I was watching it for two weeks, and I was surprised to see how much time I spent sitting there. Several years later I still cannot think of a good reason for me to have one. It does not relieve stress, challenge or entertain me at all.

As the saying goes “To each their own,” but take a break from your television and see if you miss it. You can still be an informed person through different media while spending valuable time elsewhere. These few relatively relaxed years of our lives at Western should be spent on new experiences and socializing with new and different people instead of sprawled in front of the ever-present television. Don’t let the tube shrine hamper your college experiences. Unplug and enjoy what this once in a lifetime opportunity can teach you.

Publication: Western Courier