How to interpret TV ratings: An explanation of the Federal Communications Commission ratings

Here are Dr. Strohman’s explanations of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ratings.

Ratings directed towards children:

TV-Y: These programs are not expected to frighten or upset young children as they are specifically designed for viewers between the ages of 2 and 6.

TV-Y7: These programs feature fantasy that young children may not have the developmental skills to understand and are typically not appropriate for children under 7. The make-believe plot lines are more likely to frighten young children.

Ratings directed toward general audience:

TV-G: These are not “specifically” geared toward children, but they are appropriate for all ages by most parents. They do not contain excessive violence, expletives, or sexual references.

TV-PG: These programs may contain some violence, some suggestive or sexual material, and occasional strong language. They are likely not appropriate for young children to watch unattended, but are acceptable for older children.

TV-14: Parents are cautioned to not allow children under 14 to view these programs without supervision. These programs might include overtly sexual situations, inappropriate dialogue, indecent language, or graphic violence.