10 Worst TV Role Models
10. Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris), How I Met Your Mother
Why he's bad: He's extremely cavalier about dating and rarely sees women as anything besides the next notch in his belt.
Why it matters: In the media, women are still too often relegated to the roles of love interest, sex object, or selfless saint -- despite overwhelming real-world evidence to the contrary. When kids see sexual relations portrayed over and over, it reinforces gender stereotypes.
What you can do: Talk to your kids about strong female role models who've achieved success through hard work, intelligence, discipline, or business savvy. These can be everyday heroes -- like your child's teacher -- or famous women your family admires, or even a strong female character on television.
10. Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris), How I Met Your Mother
Why he's bad: He's extremely cavalier about dating and rarely sees women as anything besides the next notch in his belt.
Why it matters: In the media, women are still too often relegated to the roles of love interest, sex object, or selfless saint -- despite overwhelming real-world evidence to the contrary. When kids see sexual relations portrayed over and over, it reinforces gender stereotypes.
What you can do: Talk to your kids about strong female role models who've achieved success through hard work, intelligence, discipline, or business savvy. These can be everyday heroes -- like your child's teacher -- or famous women your family admires, or even a strong female character on television.
9. Dr. Mark"McSteamy" Sloan (Eric Dane), Grey's Anatomy
Why he's bad: By bedding a number of Seattle Grace's staff and putting on the sleaze act every chance he gets, he comes by his nickname honestly.
Why it matters: Adolescents who watch a lot of TV with sexual content are twice as likely to get pregnant or impregnate someone as kids who watch fewer of these shows.
What you can do: Watching shows that include the negative consequences of sex has been shown to be educational for teens. Talk about preventing unintended consequences such as sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies, respecting the opposite sex, and not taking decisions -- like having sex -- lightly.
8. Peter Griffin (voiced by Seth MacFarlane), Family Guy
Why he's bad: He watches way too much TV, for starters.
Why it matters: Too much screen time -- whether it's the television, computer, or a game console -- contributes to childhood obesity and psychological distress.
What you can do: Turning everything off is the obvious first step. But for families who can't quite cut the cord, play active games like Wii Sports Resort or Rock Band.
7. Naomi Clark (AnnaLynne McCord), 90210
Why's she's bad: Conniving, manipulative, and out for herself, Naomi puts a chill in the hallways of West Beverly that creates a nasty, negative atmosphere.
Why it matters: Kids now inhabit a digital world where social networking dominates their lives. When kids bring Naomi-like behavior to their online lives, it lowers the level of discourse and can even lead to cyberbullying.
What you can do: Talk about digital ethics and good online behavior to help kids use technology in a positive and ethical way.
6. Michael Scott (Steve Carell), The Office
Why he's bad: Born with his foot in his mouth, he's so self-absorbed that he can't see beyond his own ambitions.
Why it matters: Kids can be impulsive, applause-loving ego maniacs, too. Combine that with today's technologies (i.e. a webcam and a YouTube account), and they can easily broadcast their talents -- or misdeeds -- to the world.
What you can do: Remind kids that whatever they upload to the Web can be viewed by vast anonymous audiences, including teachers and potential hiring managers. Channel kids' creativity in positive directions to prevent them from pulling a Michael Scott and doing something they may regret.
5. Walter White (Bryan Cranston), Breaking Bad
Why he's bad: He justifies his criminal behavior and jeopardizes his family by pursuing his new drug-manufacturing/dealing "hobby" at the cost of everything else.
Why it matters: In the media, men are often portrayed as selfish and violent, reinforcing the big-boys-don't-cry stereotype that emotions, feelings, and empathy weaken men.
What you can do: Talk about male role models who are sensitive and strong and have shown that they can be caring fathers without risking their masculinity. These can be a friend's dad, a teacher, a pro athlete, or anyone else who fits the bill.
4. Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), Dexter
Why's he's bad: He's a serial killer who gets off on blood, death, and killing -- even though he thinks he's doing it for the right reasons.
Why it matters: Exposure to lots of media violence can increase antisocial activity and bullying and decrease empathy for victims of violence.
What you can do: Limit violent imagery in movies, television, and games, especially for younger kids. Explain the consequences of violent behavior and teach conflict resolution so kids have a vocabulary to use when disputes arise.
3. Nancy Botwin (Mary-Louise Parker), Weeds
Why she's bad: Makes consistently terrible parenting decisions, getting her sons caught up in a world of drug dealing, crime, and violence.
Why it matters: Outrageous -- not to mention illegal -- parenting behavior sends a message that abandoning responsibility is the only option when life gets overwhelming.
What you can do: You'd probably never miss a soccer game or back-to-school night, but do you know the ESRB ratings of your kids' favorite video games? Do you let your little kids surf the Web unsupervised? Did you know that your Wii can surf the Web or that your kid has a MySpace page? Get involved in your kids' digital life so that you can make informed media choices.
2. Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick), Gossip Girl
Why he's bad: This drinking, drugging gigolo has his way with viewers every week.
Why it matters: Kids who watch shows with alcohol use are more likely to try drinking than those who don't.
What you can do: Use these moments to talk to your teens about drinking and whether they think the depictions on television are realistic. Take time to share your opinions -- and expectations -- about drinking. Be a good role model by not abusing alcohol in front of your kids.
1. Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester), Gossip Girl
Why she's bad: Backstabbing and always out to be queen bee, Blair is the ultimate mean girl.
Why it matters: Blair's fashionable ways and runway style make her a key target for young viewers to look up to. Media expectations for appearance are wildly unrealistic, and many girls quickly decide they're not thin, pretty, or sexy enough.
What you can do: Place less emphasis on how your teen looks than on what she can do. Show that you value her intelligence, creativity, and other traits that have nothing to do with looks.
What Are Kids Learning from TV Characters?
What are kids learning from TV characters? A lot, it turns out. And the characters they're watching are some of your favorite characters, too. The shows teens like the best are mostly the same as their parents, with general dramas being the preferred TV genre for teens around the world, according to the 2009 Nielsen “How Teens Use Media” study. But even negative role models can open the door to a discussion of what is and isn't acceptable behavior. We've identified the worst offenders on TV and offer tips to channel their bad behavior into teachable moments.
At Common Sense Media, we help families make informed decisions about what to watch, play, read, and surf. But we're not immune to the guilty pleasures that some of these TV shows provide. While we're not suggesting that you start watching these shows, we think that you might want to seize the opportunity where it happens. And if that's in front of Gossip Girl, so be it.
What are kids learning from TV characters? A lot, it turns out. And the characters they're watching are some of your favorite characters, too. The shows teens like the best are mostly the same as their parents, with general dramas being the preferred TV genre for teens around the world, according to the 2009 Nielsen “How Teens Use Media” study. But even negative role models can open the door to a discussion of what is and isn't acceptable behavior. We've identified the worst offenders on TV and offer tips to channel their bad behavior into teachable moments.
At Common Sense Media, we help families make informed decisions about what to watch, play, read, and surf. But we're not immune to the guilty pleasures that some of these TV shows provide. While we're not suggesting that you start watching these shows, we think that you might want to seize the opportunity where it happens. And if that's in front of Gossip Girl, so be it.
Who do you think the worst role models on TV are?
There are 39 community opinions on this topic
Woww Im not allowed to see any of these shows. My family HATES family guy, and so much more!! These kinda shows arent even in my league of watching tv!!
Woww Im not allowed to see any of these shows. My family HATES family guy, and so much more!! These kinda shows arent even in my league of watching tv!!
I don't mean to say that I know what is best for your family kjkirk, but I have two kids (ages 6 and 9) and neither of them are allowed to watch the Family Guy. Children younger than 8 or 9 have trouble telling the difference between fantasy and reality (or advertising and reality) so I think telling them it is not real does little good.
My 9 year old told me when he was 5 that "the baby on Family Guy smokes". I think that sets a bad example.
I noticed a lot of these comments suggesting that some of the "bad role models" are showing bad behaviour as undesirable and nobody will want to emulate it (i.e. act like Peter Griffin). I think that totally misses the point! The point is that having characters like that, who insult others, watch too much tv, etc, ARE bad examples. They show that, while it is not desirable to be Peter Griffin, it is still okay.
Don't think that just because there is an occasional consequence to their ridiculous actions, that kids will not want to be like them.
Also, younger kids have trouble telling the difference, so mere exposure to these "bad role models" will have an effect.
A lot of you ranting about how parents should know that their kids are watching these things need to consider another option. You know how a lot of these communuty discussions are about checking browser history/ texts/ etc? For those of you who posted, you need to remember the trust factor mentioned. Because of this trust, some kids may have be able to watch anything they want to because their parents 'trust' them not to turn into that character. I can tell you a lot of kindergarteners where I'm from have played Halo and seen every 'Saw' movie.
You tell your parents to trust you, but children watching these shows behind their parents backs and blaming it on the trust they were willing to give them is wrong. You can't blame the parent for trying to trust their child only to have the child fail them.
I would consider it the parents fault, though, if the child were to watch the show right in front of them and they notice snottiness afterwards.
I agree with most of what's being said here but I just wanted to elaborate on the Peter Griffin / Family Guy thing...
The show is a satire. Of course Peter watches too much TV, etc. He's also created to seem like a complete moron, making people NOT want to be like him. I have to say I have been watching FG a lot more recently and never have I ever wanted to be like him. It's hard to see any child envisioning this character as a "role model."
Really? This article is one of the most pointless ones I've ever read. Do you know any kids under the age of 10 that watch Breaking Bad, Family Guy, How I Met Your Mother, Dexter, Gossip Girl, Weeds, or ANY of the shows on this list!? No! Weeds and Dexter are on Showtime at 11:00 PM. AND, they're rated MA. There are MANY bad role models on Childrens shows. As someone said earlier, Sam on iCarly, Squidward, a self-absorbed squid, Etc, Etc. Next time, I would try picking shows that kids ACTUALLY watch.
I think that Michael Scott could be considered, not necessarily a good role model, but still not a bad one. He is such a ludicrously moronic character any child with a shred of common sense could easily see that this is an obnoxious person with his sanity dangling by a fraying thread. Therefore a child could watch this and strive to be as unlike this as possible, this making him a bad choice for a "bad" role model.
I think you're using a pretty loose definition of "role model." No normal person aspires to be Peter Griffin. These shows arn't ment for young children, and if they watch them then it's your own fault.
My kids are 8, 7 and 2 and will NOT watch any of these shows for a long, long time.....if ever. I can't believe anybody thinks they are o.k. for kids...real or not every show they see influences them. If you just take a little extra time you can find a ton of good stuff on television. Leave the grown up stuff for after they are in bed!
You let your kids watch family guy? I'm not even allowed to watch that and I'm way older than they are. It's a cartoon yet it makes no difference wether its real or not. Do you want your kids to grow up watching it? Seeing some people, you'd be suprised how much it will affect them when they're older.
Who wants to watch these shows? They're all garbage. If your kids are mature they'll know better then to turn on the TV and start watching a bunch of junk, filling their brains with useless information and rude jokes. I dont watch this stuff, and nobody in my family approves of it. If I want to watch something entertaining I'll watch Degrassi cause its a good show. I believe this article states the obvious. Like I couldn't possible tell these are innapropriate by watching them.
That is harsh!
I think it is great that parents won't let their teens watch these types of shows. It WILL a influence them (and alter their personality), and just because we are in a new generation does NOT mean that these shows are fine to watch.
i agree that those listed on the list aren't fantastic role models, but these really are all characters on adult shows..I mean, I honestly don't know any kids who watch Dexter or How I Met Your Mother. You shouldn't let your kids watch these programs until they're mature enough to handle the things on the show, and until they're mature enough not to imitate it.
Okay, I have 3 kids (4yo twins and 2yo) and they dont watch any of those shows except Family Guy. But we tell them that its just a cartoon and its not real. And in my opinion there is a worse tv role model that is way worse than Peter. Lets try Homer Simpson. He is over weight, drinks, and he strangles Bart. Why isnt he on the list? I mean my kids watch the Simpsons too but again, we tell them that its not real. That beer is okay once in a while when you are of age. And that its not okay to strangle anyone.
My husband and I watch Grey's Anatomy when they are asleep and we also watch House and Fringe (both after they are asleep). There are some things that we sensor them on. They dont need to see what goes on during those shows.
I'm just glad we only watch videos.
It sounds like commercial TV has reached a new low.
um i dont even care about those shows im just saying that were going to see these types of things sooner or later but that doesnt mean u should let yr kids watch this stuff when i was little i kept whining beacause i wanted to see the show 24. but now im old enough to know that when im ready to see things i will
I love Gossip Girl. It's because of the story line plus, the actors and actresses are really hot. And the story itself is hot, to be honest. And I know these shows are not OK to be watched be tweens and younger. Even those teenagers that has a maturity level a size of a pea.
It''s not OK to let them watch the shows (Gossip Girl). I just watch it because I know I'm capable of whatever info I'm taking in.
So yeah, don't let your kids watch those shows. Problem solved. At least give the some advice or words of wisdom about it. OR give them suggestions on what to watch. :)
Yettijones, i think it is very WRONG that some people think it is "ok" for kids to watch these types of shows. It IS going to affect your children and influence them if they watch. Just because we live in 2009 does not mean that these shows are "ok"!!
I don't think that too many kids watch these shows unless their parents do. I have a hard time imagining a six-year-old going "I want to watch Grey's Anatomy tonight". I think that most fans of all of these shows are adults and teenagers that are smart enough to know that these are not good role models.
Okay haha how many times have you seen kids watching those shows? I know that these girls in my class loved Greys Anatomy when they were about 13, but Ive never heard of someone under that age watching those shows. Honestly, what parent let their young kids watch those?
Yeti, you have a ten year old that agrees with you...when you have, kids you'll understand, if I understand your opinion correctly, we as parents should just "get over it" and let them watch anything? When I see "adult contributer" next to your comment it makes me shiver and fear for our future. I haven't the will to combat your ignorance...
IM WITH YETIJONES
I'd normally be up to debating it, but after reading some of the opinions on here I don't even have the will to combat so much idiocy; so, in short, I just wish some of these parents would get a life and just let their kids' lives be; new generation, new society, new lifestyle. GET OVER IT.
They are only watching things like that if the rules are lax and no one is turning the set off and imposing the rules at home -- at a friend's house obviously the house rules apply and you can't control it but you can talk to them about it and teach them why you don't like the programs you don't let them watch at home. If you have an open dialogue with you kids set rules which are firm but not rigid and change rules as kids grow things can work better. It also makes sense to know your kids friends and their families and encourage friendships with kids who's parents have similar rules and tv policies to yours, it won't stop kids from watching stuff on the sly but it will limit it some.
Does this translate to " ___ ___ but people we're going to see "bad stuff" on tv whether you like it or not the thing is u can't control us so get used to it?"
The thing is if your parents are doing their job properly you would know that the answer to that is- Oh yes your parents can control you, they can disconnect your tv, take away your phone, and only allow you to use a computer for home work in a public place in the house like the living room. They could also take away the car keys, ground you and cut off your allowance. Think about it kiddo you are not in charge if you are still living at home and you should know that. For your sake I hope your parents let you know that fact otherwise you may end up wishing they had. I know it is none of my business but as a teacher I worry about kids like you.
Why would lids under the age of 16 be watching any of the shows listed? I know my daughter isn't allowed to watch these shows and will not be allowed to until she is at least 16.
erm idk but ppl were gonna see "bad stuff" on tv whether u like it or not the thing is u cant control us
soooo get used to it :)
duh
Let's see a list of the 10 worst tv role models in shows that are more commonly watched by children. Yes, in even the most "innocent" of shows, they are out there. For example, the character Sam on ICarly. She is a bully and physically violent with even her closest friends. She cheats and gets away with it, never any consequences. Lots of parental disrespect in Suite Life of Zach and Cody. Just to name a couple.
Fact is most of these programs are best viewed by adults only.
I just want to respond to the parent who thinks reasonable parents aren't allowing their children to watch inappropriate television/movies. Reasonable parents or not and whether the parents know it or not, kids are watching these shows. To think it is not happening is being extremely naive.
To address martybillingsley's question about good role models: I don't watch much prime time TV, but my whole family is hooked on Gilmore Girls. It's no longer being produced, but we own all the seasons on DVD and I know the reruns are still on ABC Family. For the first 4 seasons, Rory Gilmore is a great role model. She is a smart, good girl who is involved in her community and LOVES to read. The show overall, in case you don't know, is about a single mom and her sixteen year old daughter, but they handle it pretty well and keep it relatively clean compared to most of the shows on TV now. There are a few topics that we have to talk about when the episode is over, but all in all I let my 10 year old watch it and there are few cringe worthy moments in my opinion.
I agree that most of these are pretty bad role models except one..... Michael Scott of The Office. My children and I have discussed so much about how not to be because of his childish, self absorbed character on the show... I would be very worried and even surprised if a young person watching this show thought his character was something to be emulated. Wow.... If anything it is something to teach us about how selfishness and insecurities can make us hurtful and thoughtless toward others. And it uses humor to do so..... Plus, it's my favorite show and the only one I watch now!!!!
As we don't pay for cable TV and have no antenna signal, either, most of these characters are unknown to me or my wife or daughter. But I gotta say - your ranking Steve Carell's character in The Office as a bad role model left me agape. Did you miss that it was tongue in cheek - that Michael Scott is like a walking-talking PSA warning against his every misstep and faux pas? Likewise, do you not get that Stephen Colbert is actually making fun of his TV persona on the Report? For what it's worth, we have rented and viewed some episodes of The Office and The Colbert Report online... and my daughter picked up on the parody from these two - all by herself, and in a second language, no less - when she was 10.
Has there been a list of the top-ten BEST role models on TV? I'd rather steer my kids toward certain shows than away from others. (Not that we watch any of the above shows anyway, but I'm always looking for good things to watch when it's vegging out time.)
Ok, i'm hoping this was in no particular order because if you think a Gossip Girl is worse then a Serial Killer i might need to find a new website....BTW IMHO most of these are adult shows and any reasonable parent would shouldn't let their kids watch them anyway.
Why would anyone let their kids watch "Dexter" or "Breaking Bad" in the first place (or even "Family Guy" for that matter?) This article seems pointless.
NOBODY UNDER 16 IS GUNNA WATCH ANY OF THAT!!
NO KIDS EVEN HEARD OF THOSE SHOWS!!
I've HEARD of Gossip Girl, but never saw it.
i never saw any of those shows!!