Conference Objectives
- Discuss and debate with the general public, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), policymakers, and the press the proposition that media could indeed pose a public health dilemma to our nation's youth. With the exception of a small group of individuals, researchers, and government leaders, the concept of framing media as a public health issue for kids and families is largely unfamiliar.
- Discuss with key industry executives the role the media industry plays in watching out for kids. Where does the industry that creates television, film, video games, and the Internet draw the line when it comes to offering "appropriate" media to children and youth? Who defines what is "appropriate"?
- Is there — or should there be — a larger role for regulation when it comes to media and children?
- How do we get the best that the media industry offers to our kids?
- How do messages and access to media and technology affect minority youth?
The conference is intended to be a "big-tent" event in which differing points of view are valued and encouraged. In that regard, we will host leaders from the media and entertainment industry, public policy arena, medical and social sciences, and community leaders to engage in public dialogue on this important issue.
Below are the kinds of issues that we expect to raise within the various panels and keynotes to address:
- The Media as Parent
- What is the Responsibility of Media Leaders?
- Should Media be Regulated When it Comes to Kids?
- Keeping Kids Healthy in a 24/7 Environment
- Media, Kids, and Ethics
- Does the Internet Change Everything?
- Good Media for Kids Can Make a Difference
