DEAR HARRIETTE: More and more television series are representing individuals in the LGBTQ community. I think it is great for them to be cast and portrayed in certain roles. However, I see the same happening in children's TV shows, and I wonder why it is necessary for kids to be exposed to sexual orientation at such young ages. The recent gay marriage on "Arthur" is a great example of this.
Being a mother of four, I believe children should be taught to love everyone without being exposed to things they are not ready to comprehend yet. When they see certain things on TV, it can influence and persuade them to make certain actions. For instance, my daughter was playing with two Barbie dolls the other day, and she made the dolls kiss each other. I just don't want them to be exposed to sensitive matter at an early age. -- Overexposed
DEAR OVEREXPOSED: I believe that there is way too much sexual activity and innuendo on TV in general. Subtle portrayals of intimacy have been replaced with overt intimate acts. In theory, I agree with you that no sexual behavior should be part of children’s television -- not because I am opposed to different sexual orientations, but because I think children should be able to enjoy themselves in nonsexualized environments. That said, on "Arthur," the issue was not sexual behavior, it was marriage. Like it or not, we live in a country that allows all people to marry.
While it is true that when people see different behaviors, they take in some information, psychologists agree that children will not become gay because they see that type of relationship -- including a same-sex marriage. The realities of coming into one’s own sexual identity are different and complex. Many people say they knew they were whatever their orientation from a very early age, even if it took time, courage and awareness to express it.
Regarding the two dolls kissing, that could have simply been your daughter playing with her dolls. It could mean more. Talk to her about it. That’s how you will learn where her head is.