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Using the TV’s Features
22 Chapter 3
How V-Chip Works
When turned “on,” the V-Chip software reads a code that most broadcasters send with programs.
That code tells the software the program’s age-based rating (TV-MA, TV-14, etc.) and content
themes [(Violence (V), Adult Language (L), etc.)]. If you have blocked the rating and/or
content themes that the program contains, you will receive the message, “This channel is not
approved for viewing,” when you tune to that particular channel.
Broadcasters are not required to provide content themes, so programs received with no content
themes will only be blocked if you block their age-based rating. You can also block out programs
that have been given a rating of “Not Rated,” and programs that are considered “unrated”
because no code has been sent by the broadcaster. The TV age-based ratings and content
themes you can block are listed in the following table.
Mature Audience Only. Specifically designed to be viewed by adults and may be unsuitable for children under
17. It contains one or more of the following content themes: crude indecent language (L), explicit sexual
activity (S), or graphic violence (V).
Parents Strongly Cautioned. Contains some material that many parents would find unsuitable for children
under 14. Parents are strongly urged to exercise greater care in monitoring this program and are cautioned
against letting children under the age of 14 watch unattended. This program contains one or more of the
following content themes: intensely suggestive dialogue (D), strong coarse language (L), intense sexual
situations (S), or intense violence (V).
Parental Guidance Suggested. Contains material that parents may find unsuitable for younger children. Many
parents may want to watch it with their younger children. The program contains one or more of the following
content themes: some suggestive dialogue (D), infrequent coarse language (L), some sexual situations (S), or
moderate violence (V).
General Audience. Most parents would find this program suitable for all ages. It contains little or no sexual
dialogue (D) or situations (S), no strong language (L), and little or no violence (V).
Directed to Children 7 years and older. Designed for children ages 7 and above. It may be more appropriate
for children who have acquired the developmental skills needed to distinguish between make-believe and
reality. Themes and elements in this program may include mild fantasy violence (FV) or comedic violence, or
may frighten children under the age of 7.
All Children. Themes and elements in this program are designed for a young audience, including children
from ages 2-6. It is not expected to frighten younger children.
TV-Y
Age-Based
Rating
Description and Content Themes for Age-Based Ratings
TV-MA
TV-14
TV-PG
TV-G
TV-Y7