How Safe are Main News Bulletins for Children? Analyzing News Content in Terms of Suitability for Children

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the appropriateness of main news programs broadcast on television channels for children’s development. Children’s development processes can be significantly affected by the content they are exposed to through the media. Violence, fear, and tragic events, which are frequently encountered especially in main news bulletins, may cause negative emotional responses in children. In this context, the study evaluates how suitable television news programs are for children by examining elements such as language use, visual elements, and presentation style. In the research process, the main news bulletins were systematically watched within a defined timeframe and evaluated using content analysis. Content analysis was conducted within the framework of criteria such as whether the language used in the news is simple and understandable, and whether the visuals are suitable for children’s sensitivities. The findings reveal that most of the main news programs on television channels are not suitable for children, and that these programs often contain content that may negatively affect children’s emotional development.