CBSC Codes and Contradictory Programming

Please note: This video contains scence of intentional violent nature.

Bully Beatdown is a MTV programs based around the idea of using violence as an act of resolution. According to the clause of the CAB Violence Code 3.1.1, "The issue of violence in our society is one of real concern to the public, and by extension to Canadian private, over-the-air broadcasters who are involved with, and committed to, the communities which they serve." Violence is our society can be seen in many different areas: schools, communities, at home. However, it does not necessarily have to be portrayed in the media. Although violence of mature nature must be played after 9pm, this television program hits the border of our CBSC codes. The issue about bullying in Canada has recently been addressed with positive feedback from those who support standing up against it. Yes, Bully Beatdown is in support of taking a bully down, however it is using extremely violent actions to do so. According to the CAB code, violence is a concern to the public and its broadcasters. Around 9:30pm, when this shows airs on television, there are most definitely teenagers still up watching the show. It is easy to influence youth with programming on television. And since this show is 'reality tv' they may use violence as a way to fix a bullying problem - which is a very  ineffective way to solve anything.

Please note: The commercials contains scenes of sexual and violent nature. Please be advised.

This particular commercial for Folgers coffee starts off with a little boy preparing breakfast for his parents. However, as it goes on, the commercial shows the boys parents in a bed, with two males figures and one woman. This carries an implication that these adults may be having some sort of affair. One man also begins to yell at the young boy, and so does his mother. This is a type of verbal violence against the child, which goes against the code. Although there are areas which adhere to the code such as roles of women, where the female in the code is wearing clothing as if she is preparing to go to work, much of the text involves, violence and sexual implications. The child looks scared, and scarred, which could be one reason this commercial was banned in Canada. The inital acts of abuse against the little boy carry implications that Canadian society would not want to show to its citizens.