It’s Complicated: Plot and Formal Feature Complexity in Early Childhood Television Content

The recent surge in television content targeting young children has led to questions about the appropriateness of the content for children’s developmental capabilities. The study comprehensively analyzed the manifestations of complexity–both in the plot and in formal features–in content aired on child-targeted television channels (from about 2 to 6 years of age). A qualitative analysis of content from 216 television shows from the six Israeli children’s television channels identified much complexity in children’s programming. Plot complexity involved intertwining sub-plots and characters, a weak problem-solution link in the narrative, and unclear messages. Formal feature complexity involved fast-pace, quick camera cuts, and an overload of visual elements. The study uniquely identified the shifts between “real” and “fantasy” worlds in children’s television shows as comn contexts of complexity that integrate both plot and formal feature indicators. Manifestations of complex messages in children’s television shows are discussed in light of toddlers’ and young children’s cognitive development. The findings are also discussed in light of the traveling lens model associated with children’s learning from television content.