The television rating system has been in place since 1997, providing viewers with an indication of the type of content that will be presented on their television screens. One of the most commonly used rating is TV-MA, which stands for “Mature Audience Only”. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning of TV-MA and compare it to other television ratings, as well as answer some frequently asked questions.
What does TV-MA mean?
TV-MA is the most restrictive rating that is based on content. It is intended for mature audiences only, as it may contain graphic violence, extensive nudity and sexual content, foul language, and other adult themes. The rating is also used for programs that deal with controversial social, political, and economic issues.
The TV-MA rating was introduced to help parents monitor the content their children are watching. It serves as a warning that the program is not suitable for a younger audience due to its mature content. However, the rating is not a guarantee that the program is not suitable for children, as some children may be able to handle the content better than others.
How does TV-MA compare to other television ratings?
TV-MA is the most restrictive rating in terms of content. It is stricter than TV-14 and TV-PG ratings, which may also contain adult themes but are considered suitable for teenagers and children, respectively.
TV-14 is for viewers aged 14 and above, and may contain intense violence, sexual situations, and crude language. The TV-PG rating is for younger audiences and may contain mild violence and language, as well as some sexual content and mature themes.
On the other hand, the TV-MA rating is less restrictive than NC-17 and X ratings. NC-17 is considered the most restrictive rating for mainstream films, and is used for movies with explicit sexual content or graphic violence that would be deemed unsuitable for children under 17. The X rating was previously used for adult films, but has since been replaced by NC-17. The X rating was deemed non-commercial by the Motion Picture Association of America due to its association with pornography.
What are some common TV-MA shows?
TV-MA rated shows can be found on various networks such as HBO, Showtime, Netflix, and Hulu. Some of the most well-known TV-MA rated programs include:
– Game of Thrones
– The Sopranos
– Breaking Bad
– Dexter
– The Walking Dead
– American Horror Story
– Orange is the New Black
– Stranger Things
– Narcos
– Ozark
These shows all deal with some form of adult content, including violence, drugs, and sex. Some may also contain taboo topics such as incest, rape, and murder.
FAQs:
1. Does TV-MA mean that a show is not suitable for children under 17?
Yes, TV-MA means that the program is not suitable for children under 17. The rating serves as a warning to parents that the content is not appropriate for younger audiences, and that discretion should be used.
2. Can children watch TV-MA rated shows?
It depends on the child and the parents’ discretion. The TV-MA rating is a guideline and not a strict rule, and some children may be able to handle the content better than others. Parents are advised to watch the show first to determine if it is appropriate for their child.
3. Why is TV-MA important?
TV-MA is important because it helps parents monitor the content their children are exposed to on television. It serves as a warning that the program is not suitable for a younger audience due to its mature content.
4. Can a show change its TV-MA rating?
Yes, a show can change its rating, either to a lower or higher rating. This can happen if the content of the show changes, or if the network decides to re-evaluate the show’s rating.
Conclusion:
TV-MA is a television rating that indicates mature content and is not suitable for children under 17. It is the most restrictive rating in terms of content, and is intended to help parents monitor the content their children are watching. TV-MA rated shows can be found on various networks and deal with adult themes such as violence, drugs, sex, and taboo topics. Parents are advised to watch the show first to determine if it is appropriate for their child.