Queensland, Australia – Recent research has shown TV viewing in children to have a negative impact on them in terms of increasing tendencies for violent behavior and obesity. Additionally, there is an ongoing debate about TV viewing increasing the chances of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders) in children.

    With both parents working in so many families, it's no surprise that television often becomes the babysitter. U.S.-based research has found that the more a child watches TV between the ages of one and three, the greater the risk they'll develop attention problems by the time they're seven. However, Professor John Harvey from the University of Technology, Queensland, who has been researching television for three decades, is skeptical about these claims. "I think television is a scapegoat,” he said.

    The American report also makes the claim that every additional hour a pre-schooler sits in front of the TV, it increases the risk of ADHD by 10 percent. Sue Conroy, who has worked in childcare for 15 years, while dismissing the American study findings, says she has no doubt that TV can lead to other problems like violent behavior and childhood obesity.

    "When they're up dancing it's a productive thing, but if they're put in front of something (TV shows) where it's punching, kicking, hanging off buildings - we've had them climb up on things even with us supervising - I think it can promote dangerous behavior," says Sue.

    As far as Attention Deficit Disorders go, several experts want more substantial research before any direct link with TV watching habits can be established.