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Growing up I was allowed to choose what I wanted to watch on television. Of course my parents made it clear what was appropriate for me and what was not. We were allowed to watch the Simpsons, for example, but because of our parents' influence we didn't enjoy watching it until we were of an appropriate age to do so. I hope to raise my own children in such a manner that lets them know they can watch it if they want--but emulating attitudes and behavior found on television is not to be tolerated (my parents made this clear as well) and if they feel uncomfortable watching it they should turn it off--kids should never feel they have to watch something because their peers do (my mom always gave me the out--I could always blame it on her, even though she let me do what I wanted).
I think parental guidance is more important than moderation of television. Children are going to be exposed to sex and violence regardless; it's up to the parents to put those things in context and let children know that television shows are FICTION.
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If I am not better, at least I am different. --Jean-Jacques Rousseau
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