V-Chip technology allows viewer control of television content, but most families do not use or even know how to use V-Chips.

All television sets with screens over 13 inches (33 centimeters) must include V-Chips per Section 551 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. The V-Chip requirement (which falls under the Federal Communication Commission for enforcement) included half of all televisions produced in 1999 and then all sets manufactured after January 2000. Any newer television (except small portables) are equipped with V-Chips.

What are V-Chips?

V-Chips read the television ratings and allow parents to block programs in various rating categories. For example, a parent could block all TV-M programs which are mature programs meant only for adults. Or a parent could block all programming other than TV-G, TV-Y7, and TV-Y (shows generally rated as acceptable for child viewers.

Blocking Television Shows at Various Rating Levels

Many parents think the “V’ in V-Chip stands for “violence.” Tim Collings, the creator of V-Chips, notes that the original meaning of the “V” was for “viewer control.” He envisioned the technology as a tool to manage media and not specifically as a way to block violent programming. The V-Chip can be used to screen out violence, but it’s really designed to be used with the television rating system.

Different television brands use different procedures for managing television content, but basically parents go to on-screen menus and then allow or block various programs based on ratings. Instructions should be included when a television set is purchased. Some directions are available online through company sites. Consumers can also call manufacturers to get extra help with the settings.

Television Ratings

The National Association of Broadcasters, the National Caleb Television Association and the Motion Picture Association of America worked together to establish voluntary ratings for television programs. The ratings are called “TV Parental Guidelines” and are displayed during the first 15 seconds of rated programs in the upper left hand corner of the screen. Television shows are rated by the episode, so a particular program may have various ratings depending on the content.

TV Y – All Children

Programs in this category are appropriate for children of all ages including children ages 2 to 6 years.

TV Y7 – Older Children

Shows in this category are designed for children 7 and older or for children who can distinguish between reality and fantasy. Programs may include some fantasy or comedic violence that may be unsuitable for younger children.

TV Y7 FV – Older Children – Fantasy Violence

These programs are similar to the TV Y7 shows, but the “fantasy violence” (FV) is more pronounced and may frighten some young children. The designation “FV” is often misread as a designation for “family viewing.”

TV G – General Audience

As with the movie rating system, G stands for general audiences. Although programs in this category may not be designed specifically for viewing by children, most parents feel comfortable with G rated television programs. These shows do not include violence, strong language, or sexually inappropriate materials.

TV PG – Parental Guidance Suggested

Parental guidance is recommended for programs with PG designations. The overall themes may be mature, or programs include moderate violence (V), infrequent bad language (L), suggestive dialogue (D), or some sexual situations (S).

TV 14 – Parents Strongly Cautioned

Programs in this category include some materials that parents might find objectionable for children under 14 years of age. Parents are cautioned to block access or to attend children in viewing shows under this designation.

TV MA – Mature Audience Only

Shows in this category are not suitable for children of any age. They are designed to be viewed by adults only.

V-Chips Often Go Unused

Although most home television sets include V-Chips, parents are not very familiar with the technology. Studies have been conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation as well as other organizations concerned about television programming and children.

Only 16% of parents use V-Chip technology to manage home viewing. Almost 60% of parents are not even aware that they can block content. Even when parents are aware of the V-Chip, less than half have learned to use the technology. For parents using the V-Chip, close to ¾ find the content management tool useful.