September 12, 2005

Spiritual discernment is increasing necessity as TV shows deal more with supernatural themes

Raiders News Service

Prof: TV Shows May Tune Our Beliefs in Supernatural

Newswise — Americans' interest in the supernatural is only natural, but a Purdue University mass media expert says television programs - including some in this fall's lineup - may influence what people believe about the paranormal.

"This is a great form of entertainment, but it can be harmful when people are unable to sort out what is real and what isn't," says Glenn Sparks, professor of communication who studies the effects supernatural television shows have on the way people believe and accept the supernatural. "For example, watching these shows could encourage people who can least afford it to start spending money on psychics.

"Also, teenagers' belief systems are still forming, so they are more susceptible to being influenced by these shows. Parents should talk to their children about what they are watching, and the networks should consider posting disclaimers about the reality of the shows."

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