Is Watching TV On Your Own Bad For You?

Nowadays more people than ever live alone. Even in families or shared houses it is common for each family member or flatmate to sit alone in their rooms watching different TV programmes. The shared aspect of TV watching has been replaced in lots of homes by a somewhat solitary experience. This is not necessarily a bad thing but if it takes time away from social activities it can contribute to people feeling isolated, lonely and eventually losing a sense of community. It is thought that this does pose a threat to all of us. It is only when we feel connected to others that we remember to take other people's needs and feelings into account. Many people felt that the kinds of societies most of us want to live in are dependent on us all recognising our interconnectedness. Solitary TV watching is not responsible for all the world's problems but it can make us feel that the world is a less friendly place and lead to us feeling somewhat detached from friends, families and neighbours.  If you want to feel more engaged with other people either turn off the TV and do something more social instead or invite them round to share a favourite programme.