Advertisements targeting Children

Some people believe that advertisements targeting children may have negative effects on them, and suggest banning such advertisements as a solution. 


To what extent do you agree or disagree?
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( in other words,will ban on such ads be effective answer?If not,what else can be done? )


We all live in a commercial world and children are not immune from advertisements directed towards them.Excessive commercial pressure and its negative impact on young people is highlighted by experts and parents are naturally  concerned about the issue.In this essay,
I will discuss my view on whether banning of these ads would be effective solution or not.




Nowadays,advertisements directed to children are common place on different medias and traditional media like television programs are bombarded with adverts.Food ads,for instance,have substantial influence on children's food choice and subsequent eating behavior.Experts point out that growing epidemic of overweight and obesity is partly related to these adverts.It is obvious that we must find solution to prevent similar hazards.In addition,children become victims of adverts on new digital media,the internet, as well.

There is advertising regulation on traditional media like TV in some parts of the world,and the regulators ban commercials to young people aired on the media,which would help in reducing negative consequences in some way but not eliminate completely. Since other means of new advertisements like brand ambassador or online ads escape from these regulation,we need other solutions as well.


One other suggested approach is raising parental awareness of marketing and advertising technique.Parents can be a role model as smarter consumer.Most importantly,Schools should  inform children of consumerism and advertisements.Finally,industry should be responsible.


All in all,banning of unethical ads directed to young people could be a solution in media like TV program,it would not be practical in other marketing approaches.Teachers and parents alike should be vigilant to protect children from undesirable commercials,along with responsible practice of industry.
( 270 words )






Words:
Advertisement /adverts/promotion/to sell products/ads/commercial on TV
marketer/consumer
target/direct/entice
effect/consequences/outcome
ban/deter/discourage




what kind of adverts directed toward children do you aware of?


Food ads on televisions have influence on children's food choice


Why do industry view children as their market force?


Because of their spending power


What channels are used to reach youth?


televisions/internet


Adverts directed at youth are on internet,which are lagely unrestricted




Is  marketing practice ethical? 


Exploit/public attention




What are the negative impacts?



Should this be banned or any alternative solution?


 regulated


prohibit/limit advertising directed at children in television program


parents teach child to be smart consumer
encourage non-commercial value in kids


take action; consumers voice their  opinions about advertising