ANALISIS SIMBOL KLASIFIKASI USIA DALAM TAYANGAN TELEVISI PADA ORANG TUA ANAK USIA 3 – 12 TAHUN DI KELURAHAN MALALAYANG 1 BARAT KECAMATAN MALALAYANG KOTA MANADO

Abstract

Age classification symbols on television serve as nonverbal communication tools to assist parents in monitoring children's media consumption. This study aims to examine how parents interpret these symbols and apply them in supervising children aged 3–12 years. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation involving five parents in Malalayang I Barat, Manado. The findings reveal a gap between parents' understanding and their daily application of age classification symbols. Parents generally perceive the symbols as initial indicators of content suitability rather than absolute rules, with their application influenced by family context, viewing habits, and situational factors.