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Going on reality shows could harm kids

Media watchdog Ofcom has expanded its guidelines about how under-18s participating in television programmes should be treated, warning that children could be harmed by appearing in live talent shows such as The X Factor.

Ofcom has set out a list of recommendations to prevent under-18s suffering distress or anxiety as a result of taking part in TV shows.

Children's exposure to television has become a greater issue since the advent of reality shows, with ITV talent show The X Factor lowering the minimum age of entrants to 14 this year.

And ITV's hit show Britain's Got Talent featured a number of child contestants including one singer who was just six years old.

"Careful consideration of the programme format and its likely impact on the participant is recommended," Ofcom warned today.

"For instance, springing high-impact surprises on under-18s in 'live' or 'as live' programmes where conflict or highly emotional situations may be involved, could cause harm and/or distress.

"Similarly, in genres which involve young children in competition with others, performance anxieties and pressure to succeed may be issues."

Ofcom said there should be clear guidelines for production staff working with under-18s, while there should be appropriate background checks on their "social, family, health and educational circumstances".

Children should be kept fully informed about the consequences of their participation, while parents or guardians should also be briefed, Ofcom suggested.

Child counsellors and psychologists should also be employed, if appropriate, Ofcom suggested.

Ofcom's broadcasting code already has clear rules in place to protect under-18s on TV.

Broadcasters are required to exercise "due care" over under-18s' physical and emotional welfare, and children must not be caused "unnecessary distress or anxiety" by their involvement in TV programmes.

"Ofcom's research shows that both adults and children value and enjoy young people being represented in programmes," Ofcom said.

"However, the consequences of participation may vary widely depending on the age, maturity and individual circumstances of the child or young person involved.

"Guidance was seen as a way of helping to safeguard the welfare of under-18s during the different stages of their participation in programmes."

Source: Guardian