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Abstract
Media, from television to the "new media" (including cell phones, iPads, and social
media), are a dominant force in children's lives. Although television is still the
predominant medium for children and adolescents, new technologies are increasingly
popular. The American Academy of Pediatrics continues to be concerned by evidence
about the potential harmful effects of media messages and images; however, important
positive and prosocial effects of media use should also be recognized. Pediatricians
are encouraged to take a media history and ask 2 media questions at every well-child
visit: How much recreational screen time does your child or teenager consume daily?
Is there a television set or Internet-connected device in the child's bedroom? Parents
are encouraged to establish a family home use plan for all media. Media influences
on children and teenagers should be recognized by schools, policymakers, product advertisers,
and entertainment producers.