Teens easily skirt parents' TV bans.

• Position: Your Life - Brief Article

Teenagers who say their parents restrict their television viewing of certain programs are likely to watch the forbidden shows at the home of a friend, an Ohio State University, Columbus, study suggests. They also reported less-positive attitudes toward their parents. "Unfortunately, parents' good intentions in restricting television viewing may actually backfire and contribute to them watching more of the programs they shouldn't see," says Amy Nathanson, author of the study and an assistant professor of journalism and communication.

However, that doesn't mean parents are powerless to mold their teens' viewing habits. Nathanson's research reveals that parents who discuss issues related to TV with their older children--rather than just restrict watching--are more likely to influence what their offspring watch. The key, she says, is to discuss without...