In recent years, the advancements in television and video technology have brought remarkable entertainment experiences into our homes, rivaling the quality of movie theaters. As a writer specializing in technology, I often explore and critique these advancements. However, amidst this technological progress, there is a lesser-known secret that has always accompanied television and has grown more potent with technological improvements: advertising. We are all aware of its presence, but few of us truly comprehend the extent of its influence on our minds. While many believe they are immune to its effects, the truth is that television advertisements wield far greater power over us than we realize.
Have you ever stopped to consider the impact of media on your mind? It is truly astounding when you think about it. How many television commercials do you encounter in a single day? I’m willing to bet it’s a substantial number. Personally, I know my family and I are exposed to a multitude of television ads. Now, let’s be honest with ourselves. How often do these ads persuade you to purchase something you wouldn’t have bought otherwise? We’d like to believe it never happens, but deep down, we know that’s not true. In my case, it’s the food ads that get to me. It’s not that we’re being deceived, but rather, companies are aware of our vulnerabilities and tempt us, convincing us that we need or desire their products. These commercials create specific cravings within us. Just watch a pizza commercial and see what it does to you. Personally, it always makes me crave pizza for my next meal, if not sooner. I hate to admit how often these ads have led me to order a pizza—I’m an innocent victim here!
I strive to tune out television ads entirely. We understand that their purpose is to sell a product, making it appear as appealing as possible. Of course, they want us to buy into their message, as it translates to more profits for them. However, we must be particularly cautious about the impact of advertising on children. Research has shown that television advertising has a greater influence on young audiences compared to older viewers. Children are highly impressionable and tend to believe what is presented to them, particularly when it comes to toys and games. Think back to the toy commercials when you were a child—they had us believing that the toy could perform extraordinary feats, only for us to realize it was just a piece of plastic. It’s a major disappointment for a young child.
In the realm of television advertisements, I must admit that there are a few gems among the bunch. Take a moment to reflect, and I’m sure you’ll quickly recall one that made you laugh or captured your interest. However, there are also countless ads that drive me crazy. Topping my list of frustrations are those absurd infomercials. These advertisements are truly dreadful, and I can hardly believe that anyone watches them. But surely, somebody does! I must confess that there have been occasions when I found myself caught up in them as well.
We need to recognize the direct impact of television advertising on us and how it triggers our desires and purchases. Technological advancements, such as DVRs, allow us to skip or fast-forward through commercials. Nevertheless, we are still inundated with advertising every day. Companies invest billions each year in marketing because they know it pays off. They understand the effectiveness of television ads and have the research to back it up. Therefore, if we believe we are immune to the tactics that the advertising industry knows work, we are simply fooling ourselves. We must educate ourselves and be mindful of the ways in which advertising influences us. Marketing employs sophisticated psychological techniques, and its objectives may be more subtle and long-lasting than we imagine. Just because we don’t rush out and buy the products doesn’t mean we haven’t been influenced. We cannot escape it, but by being aware of its impact, we can, to some extent, mitigate its influence.