Interpersonal Factors in Adolescent Television Use

An examination of some interpersonal factors related to adolescents' television viewing is presented, with particular emphasis on dimensions of communication in the family and with peers. Four specific viewing contexts are examined: with parents, with siblings, with friends, and alone. Perceptions of reality and violence are highest while viewing with parents; entertainment is associated more closely with viewing in other contexts. Examination of family communication patterns reveals that adolescents from socio‐oriented families tend to vary their viewing patterns more in the direction of their parents than do those in families where this orientation is weak. Analysis of peer communication patterns suggests that strong peer orientations are associated with conformity to peer viewing norms when viewing with friends. Measures of social learning suggest that it is greatest when the child is viewing with parents. The modifying effects of viewing are discussed and new methodologies encouraged for future research.