More References To Contraceptives, STDs Required In TV Programs
The British administration is all set to ask TV heads to add up more references to contraceptives and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in their respective programs.
Functionaries are likely to say that their appraisal of well-known TV programs did not find adequate sex scenes showcasing the characters discussing contraceptives including condoms.
They will reportedly say that proper review of 350 episodes of soap operas and comedy shos showed that just 7% of sex scenes had the characters talking about protected sex.
A report, entitled Mis-selling Sex, to be released by the health section, will call on telly writers to include more dialogue regarding contraceptions and plot lines showcasing the outcomes of unsafe sexual relationship including unwanted pregnancies and illness.
It will also ask reports to make use of more slang words so that teenagers can link with the dialouge.
The move comes after opposition head David Cameron damned Lily Allen last week for her sexually explicit lyrics that he thought were unfit for kids.
Gillian Merron, the Public Health Minister, said, “Young people relate to the programmes they watch on TV, so it’s important that they see both realistic and responsible portrayals of sex and contraception.”
“It’s not for Government to say what happens on TV, but we can have conversations with broadcasters to help them have a more positive impact on attitudes to sex,” she added.
"I’m encouraged that some broadcasters are working to address these issues, and hope others will follow suit."
Her report assessed programmes famouswith 16-24 year old children comprising EastEnders, Emmerdale, Coronation Street, Hollyoaks, Holby City, Home & Away and Neighbours.
American favorite shows such as CSI, My Name is Earl, Grey's Anatomy, Lost and Desperate Housewives were also examined.
Scientists found that only 7% of sexual content showcased talks on protected sexual relationship. Out of 102 encounters of actual sex, hust 3 pairs used condoms.
Around 13% of sex cases where contraception was not featured dealt with any type of consequence including pregnancy or contracting a STD.
Out of 99 cases of unprotected sexual relationships, just 9 characters felt sorry for their behaviour, the report says.
The report says that around 37% of teens turn to TV for guidance on sex and relationships and approx 50% of youngsters say that they would feel more confident about making use of condoms if they were discussed more openly in the media.
The report was commissioned as part of the administration’s ‘Sex. Worth Talking About’ campaign that has also seen a major TV ad campaign asking teenagers to make use of contraception. (With Input from Agencies)