by Linda G. Hull

Created on: May 16, 2008

Controversial movies and books are controversial because of their content. The most disturbing are those that blur the lines of truth, contain unnecessarily violence, include deviant behaviors, or sexual content. Children have the least ability to discern the difference between good and bad content. They need time to develop mentally and emotionally, and they need to learn discernment.

Most of us develop a standard by which we gage our beliefs and opinions, and we teach it to our children. Hopefully, we also teach them why we believe what we do, and encourage them to embrace our standards and beliefs as they mature.

Our standard is our measuring guide. By comparing movies and books to our standard, we adults can determine if controversy is present. Adults will check information against known facts, even seeking a second opinion, but a child cannot make such a comparison. Nor can they determine why something is important or find connections and patterns to determine causes. They are still learning the evidences that demonstrate how life and society work.

Children are easily influenced by those who have authority over them such as teachers, parents, and religious leaders, as well as their peers. Most children will blindly accept what they are told, and are unable to form an unbiased opinion. They can't distinguish between myth, misinformation, or misconceptions.

Using movies and books as a forum to debate controversial issues can be a good learning exercise if both sides of a debate are presented without bias. Bringing fresh perspective to controversial topics can bring new information and foster understanding. Unfortunately, healthy debate is hindered by personal bias.

Whatever goes into the brain tends to stay there. Why not be particular about what we and they take in? The Apostle Paul made a good point in his letter to the Philippians:

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Philippians 4:8

Every parent wants the respect of his/her child. Respect is earned when the parent demonstrates a value system that applies to all members of the family, not just the kids. Otherwise, cries of hypocrisy will eventually surface, destroying trust and respect.

Let's present our children with the best movies and books so that when something of lesser value comes along, they can easily tell the difference. Let's be diligent to teach our children a standard for living that will serve as an effective guide to truth when dealing with any controversy. Let's teach our children truth so that when controversy comes, they will be able to defend it. Let's teach our children the Bible.

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