Author: Independent Review of the Commercialisation and Sexualisation of Childhood

Publisher: The Stationery Office

Published: 2011-06-06

Total Pages: 112

ISBN-13: 9780101807821

This review by Reg Bailey, Chief Executive of Mothers' Union expresses the concerns at the commercialisation and sexualisation of childhood. We are all living in an increasingly sexual and sexualised culture and many parents feel that his culture is often inappropriate for their children. This leaves many feeling that children are being encouraged to grow up too quickly and that we don't allow them to be children. This is compounded in some new media where there is limited regulation. The review makes 14 recommendations covering 4 themes. The aims of these being: i) that sexualised images used in public places and on television, the internet, music videos and other places are more in line with what parents find acceptable, and that public space becomes more family-friendly; ii) that retailers do not sell or market inappropriate products or services for children; iii) that regulations protecting children from excessive commercial pressures are comprehensive and effective; and iv) that parents find it easier to voice their concerns, are listened to more readily when they so and have their concerns visibly acted on by businesses and regulators. Ultimately of course these recommendations need to be implemented by broadcasters, advertisers, retailers, other businesses and regulators within a reasonable timescale