Growing Up Without TV: How It Shaped My Viewing Habits
As a child, I was raised under a fairly strict roof when it came to television viewing. My parents, with good intentions, did not allow me to watch certain shows, such as The Brady Bunch and Happy Days. The reasoning behind these restrictions was rooted more in cultural and moral concerns rather than my age. Despite these limitations, I found my way to these and many other classic TV shows later in life. Today, I reflect on how my upbringing without television has influenced my viewing habits and preferences.
The Restrictions: A Missed Childhood Beloved
At a young age, my mother alluded to the fact that in The Brady Bunch, Carol was divorced. According to her, this storyline could negatively impact the morals of a young mind. Hence, she never let me watch that series. Similarly, Happy Days, which featured a character named Fonzie riding motorcycles, was off limits. I can still remember the frustration of being unable to watch these shows as a child.
On the other hand, I more than compensated with a variety of other educational and entertaining shows. Scooby-Doo and Flintstones, among others, were a regular part of my TV time. Yet, the Jetsons, which might have sparked my interest in science fiction and futuristic themes, remained a mystery to me. The availability of these shows during the VHS era was limited, and finding them was a challenge.
The Delay in Television Habits
Unlike some of my peers who were exposed to television from a very early age, my family didn’t have a television until I was in high school. In a house filled with books and intellectual pursuits, the absence of television didn’t seem like a significant loss. I developed other interests and habits, such as reading and exploring the world through literature.
Despite this, as I grew older and entered adulthood, I began to explore the television shows that I missed as a child. The Brady Bunch and Happy Days eventually became a part of my viewing repertoire, as did Little House on the Prairie, Captain Kangaroo, and Zoom. I discovered a deep appreciation for the storytelling in shows that were set in different eras and featured diverse characters and themes.
The Impact on Viewing Habits
My experience without television during my formative years has left a lasting impression on my viewing habits. I tend to appreciate the quality of storytelling and the narratives that these shows provide. While I still enjoy many popular and contemporary shows, there is a certain charm and cultural significance in the classics that I find appealing.
This experience also taught me to be more discerning about the content I watch. I tend to research shows before committing to them, ensuring that the messages and themes align with my values and interests. Additionally, I have a respect for the classics, understanding the impact they have had on entertainment and society over the years.
Today, as a grown-up, I recognize the impact that my childhood without television had on my view of the world. It was a time of discovery, exploration, and developing a love for literature and other forms of entertainment. While I enjoy modern television, I still cherish the classical shows that I discovered later in life. This unique upbringing has made me a more thoughtful and selective viewer.