Impact of advertisement on children: With special reference to advertisements of junk food and toys

Advertisement is a tool which is widely and very effectively used to increase sales by almost all businesses. Advertisements create awareness about the existence of the product and also make the consumer aware of various features of the product. Many a times this information is true and in the same way, many a times it is even misleading. Sometimes the products which are actually not good for a particular class of consumers in portrayed to be very essential for that very group. In view of this situation it is very necessary to study the impact of advertisement of junk food and toys on children. For the purpose a questionnaire was designed and was given to 200 children and their parents. It was found that these days, children have become smart to understand that not all that is shown in advertisements is true but still the glitter of advertisements attracts them to a great extent and they have a uncontrollable urge to give that product at least a try. However, reaction of parents was clear that they do not find advertisement of junk food and toys favourable for their children.