Do you let your child watch inappropriate movies?
Four in 10 parents ignore film classifications and allow pre-teen children to watch movies rated 15 or 18
Children are increasingly being allowed to watch films inappropriate for their age and play computer games aimed at older teenagers, according to a study.
In a poll of 1,800 people, 40% of mums and dads admit to allowing their children to watch films rated unsuitable for their child's age. A quarter of parents also revealed they allow their kids to play computer games classified above their age group.
The research, by Parentport, was part of a larger study investigating the increasing exposure of children to inappropriate media. It warned that peer pressure is influencing parents to allow children access to media - including films, TV and the internet - that isn't suitable for them. It also voiced concerns that many children will regret “over-sharing” on the internet as they don't realise information they release about themselves now will remain online forever.
“We need to make sure parents are aware of the risks,” said a spokesman for Ofcom, the UK’s media and technology regulator.
Find out more about film classification rules and how to protect your children online.
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