TV isn’t good for couples, ADHD or not!
We’ve talked about this a great deal in my couple’s groups, now we are learning that TV can impact all relationships.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind., Jan 23, 2007 (UPI via COMTEX) — A Purdue University professor in West Lafayette, Ind., says chronic television watching can be harmful to the development of a relationship.
“Some forms of technology, such as cell phones or e-mail, can help relationships survive long distances or busy schedules,” said Glenn Sparks, professor of communication at the university and mass media effects expert. “But other uses, such as chronic television watching, can affect how people communicate in relationships or even keep people from making friends.
“There may be programs we like to watch together, and this is good, but there is a concern that a television that is always on interferes with how we communicate,” Sparks said.
The professor said a reduced amount of talking, listening and eye contact takes place in rooms with TVs on. Sparks suggested that friends and couples make plans to do other activities besides watch TV, such as taking a walk, planning a vacation or playing a game.
“Making a change can mean more than just turning the television off,” he said.
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2007 by United Press International
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February 1st, 2007 at 1:37 pm
I have found this to be true and I watch news and turn it off if it’s not too positive… (This appraisal differs acc. to my mood)I have seen that TV anesthetizes me, though if I’m alone and need to “Connect” b/c I’m a hard-working single that it can be helpful -yet not too much. Thanks . I find your blog, very good so far.
February 12th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
Thank you for your input and compliment on our blog! I agree with you that TV can be helpful when it isn’t “too much”. A person’s mood and the expectations from the environment such as family or work demands also greatly impact how TV is experienced. Unfortunately, folks with ADHD often report “hyperfocusing” on TV, loosing track of a lot of time and later beating themselves up about watching TV. Sounds like you good insight into your experiences and are practicing mindful TV watching!