Business And Social Entertainment

One of the greatest ways to wind up a strict day’s negotiations with your clients and customers is to take them given away used for an twilight of drinks or meals. The greatest way to prefer an superb venue is to surf through an online entertainment directory. Such a directory will provide you with huge seats anywhere you can contain an entertaining twilight with your small business colleagues as well as with acquaintances.

You will bargain many directories so as to will provide you with a inventory of bars and seats to plague and anywhere you can entertain your small business guests with chic. If this is come again? Interests you, nearby are specific directories anywhere you can contain seats of adult entertainment listed as well. You can take your pick of the choicest night clubs and cabarets, amid others.

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The seats listed in these directories are not narrow to entertaining no more than small business acquaintances. You can tell somebody to your well-chosen selection of bars and restaurants to entertain socially, as well. Many of the seats are huge used for you to host an superb participant to suit your account. If you yearning to throw away a social twilight of dance and frolic with your acquaintances, you will be able to locate, through an online entertainment directory, huge venues anywhere you can reckon your dance parties.

The gain of such a directory is so as to they not no more than offer you regional seats of entertainment and amusement, but the greatest choices of bars, restaurants, and other seats of amusements in the sum total kingdom. If, used for request, you are itinerant to a new city, you can locate seats of entertainment previously hired hand, and tell somebody to your arrangements accordingly. Such directories are not no more than narrow to if you seats to plague and tell somebody to merry, but and inventory amusement and theme parks, seats of performing arts, as well as sports entertainment.

Children’s Entertainment

The entertainment directory you are surfing through does not no more than inventory seats used for adults to contain their small business and social entertainment.

You will bargain seats listed anywhere your children can host their own birthday parties and wide-ranging get-togethers with their acquaintances. You can prevail on details of the venues so as to provide diverse types of theme parties used for your kids. Through such directories you can and drop a line to relatives and businesses who can help host various kinds of entertainment used for your children and their acquaintances.

You can locate seats so as to can organize innate parties, balloon parties, children’s shows, hand-puppet shows, and other forms of entertainment used for your children; not to point out seats anywhere your children and their acquaintances can plague to their hearts’ content.

An entertainment directory provides you with better access to seats of entertainment than individuals yellow pages.

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Next step is to take an informal opinion poll, by simply asking various of the relatives who will be attending the event, come again? Kind of entertainment would you have the benefit of? Too many era, entertainment used for an event is delegated to lone person or a obese board exclusive of forever ruling given away if the guests will like it. Once you contain sure come again? Type of entertainment you are interested in, the after that step is to bargain a of excellent standing entertainment company, who books all sorts of authority competence acts.

Entertainment companies, or talent agencies as they are often called can provide you with an array of services, not the smallest amount of which is making positively the entertainer you reserve arrives by your event on generation, civil, and is authority in each way. Because an entertainment company lives and dies based on the acts so as to it books, they no more than lever authority acts so it makes them look gain once the client’s guests comment on how wonderful the entertainment was. Once you contain sure on an entertainment company so as to you want to work, call them up and tell them going on for your event, and if you contain a specific type of entertainer in mind, be positively to permit them know so as to. Also, permit them know come again? Kind of account you will be working with, so you don’t waste away generation with a company who’s prices are given away of your account. The entertainment company will next offer a pair of options used for the type of entertainment you are looking used for and the cost range you are looking used for as well. Talk done the options known to you with various of the relatives who will be attending the event.

Once you choose on an entertainer, tell somebody to positively you know and read the contracts completely previously signing whatever thing. A period or two previously the event, tell somebody to positively the entertainment company calls you to confirm the day and era, and if they don’t, tell somebody to positively you call them so you don’t prevail on slightly surprises the period of the event. The player be supposed to exhibition up on generation, and even slang with various of the guests if they contain the generation. After the performance, question the guests come again? They reflection of the entertainment. If they extend up to you powerful you how huge the entertainer was, you know you selected the birthright company and entertainer, so be positively to reckon on top of their add up to used for yet to come procedures. That’s really all nearby is to it. Follow these steps and you are nearly guaranteed to contain huge entertainment by your after that event.

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Cue the screeching brake noise…now.

If you’re at this point in the process the pickin’s are gonna be slim in the entertainer department. You need to back the plotting truck up about four weeks to make sure that you have time to locate and book quality entertainment. Yes, it is possible to find a quality entertainer last-minute–but don’t expect them to be there just waiting for a phone call. A excellent entertainer will start seriously booking shows for birthdays about six weeks in advance. Four weeks is still a honestly safe bet, but beyond that the dates get tight.

Most people want to have the party on a Saturday about mid-afternoon. Well, an entertainer only has about eight of those coveted spots in any given month. Once they are taken, you go to late afternoon/early evening or perhaps a Sunday (which is getting more well loved nowadays). So Rule #1: Plot ahead at least one month.

As I mentioned earlier, you can still get a excellent entertainer sort of last-minute, but you have to be more flexible with the party time or date. For instance, if possible, reckon about a mid-week party. Those times are usually more available, and some entertainers will even give a bit of a discount to fill an otherwise unproductive date.

Once you’ve found a list of potential entertainers. Then what? How do you choose which one to invite into your home?

Rule # 2: Do your research. First, visit the company website if one is listed. A excellent website should give you honest thought of what this performer is all about. Keep in mind that the flashiest web sites don’t always belong to the best performers. But, a nice site does at least tell you this person is serious about his or her business. Be sure to read all the testimonials, and look for names that you might recognise. If there is video, check that out as well. Look for kids laughing in the video. Don’t worry so much about the show. Most living room-type shows seem a bit sluggish or even campy when viewed on video. If the kids are laughing though, that’s a clear indication that this is a excellent children’s entertainer.

You might also question friends about an entertainer? Have they heard of him or her? If so, what have they heard? It should be all positive. Of course, you’ll want to call the entertainer and find out what you can expect to experience if he or she does entertain your child. Reckon of this as an interview for a job, and you are the employer. Here are a few questions you might question.

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Are you a full-time entertainer? (A part-time entertainer may be just fine, but someone-who makes a living from entertaining will have more experience and may be more reliable because this is a business.)

What do you do? (This is a general question. Don’t expect a blow-by-blow description, but listen to what is said and how it is said. the description should captivate you somewhat. Remember, this person will most likely be talking to or with your child and the other guests for quite a while.)

How long have you been doing this? (That’s an vital one. The longer someone does a job, the better that person gets at performing it. Nowhere is that more evident than as an entertainer. )

Are you insured? (Accidents happen. You don’t want to be on the hook for the glass of purple water your entertainer spills across your new white carpet.)

Do you have any references? (They may already have testimonials listed on their website. But if you can get a recent reference to really talk with, that’s a plus. This may not be available — would you want to be the person getting calls in the future from folks?)

In addition to these questions, note how many questions your potential entertainer questions you. Expect to be questioned about the location of the party, the date, time, age of the children and what you are expecting. A excellent entertainer will want to know what environment he is getting into. He’s already plotting for the event with every question. Conversely, if you get off the phone and realize that you did most of the talking — well, go back to your list and try another number.

Rule #3: Choose what type of entertainer will fit the theme. There are a host of themes depending upon the age of the children. Your options at this point depend upon the interests of the birthday child. Dora the Explorer, Blues Clues, spys, magic, princess…the list goes on. Once this is chose, you might go to the internet and just search a few key words for your area regarding the theme you’ve chosen. For instance, if you’ve chosen Harry Potter as a theme, and you lived in Milwaukee, you might go to the internet and search for Milwaukee birthday magician. That should bring up a page with several choices. This might not be as clear with a specific theme like Blues Clues, but you might find a list of costumed characters that can visit your home.

Some may still wish to let their finger do the walking and find someone who advertises in the Yellow pages. Keep in mind that the more savvy entertainers are fleeing the yellow pages in droves. The ads are expensive and most performers are finding the internet a better choice. So your choice will be limited in the actual printed book.

If you follow all these tips, there still is no guarantee that you will get the best entertainer. You will have done your due diligence though. Not much more that to do. Do be sure to talk directly with the entertainer that will be coming to your home though. Sometimes, an agency will pop up first on the internet search. This agency may seem like it is located in your town, but in reality it might be on the other side of the country or in another country altogether. In most cases, these ‘agencies’ don’t know the entertainers and are just looking to place

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So you’ve just got engaged! It’s now time for the excitement to start. You’ve got a wedding to plot! At this point you’ve probably got a lot of questions running through your mind. Where do you start? What questions should I question vendors? Where am I going to get the money? Wait, how much money are we talking about? On the contrary to what most couples believe, wedding plotting can really be fun. With proper plotting and allocated time to complete it you can make your truly unique and exciting Chicago Wedding reception.

When it comes to the entertainment part of your reception this should be treated with care as with all your other very vital wedding details. The entertainment seems to be one of, if not the most vital components to a reception. Sure, the food, decorations, and socialization are very vital but without entertainment, these events would take on an entirely different personality.

For affairs that are focuses around the entertainment, or at least ones where it is responsible for a major role in the success or failure of the event, some serious considerations must be taken when hiring the right entertainment.

Will you find the right entertainment by hiring the one that answers the phone first or the one that has the lowest price or would you select one just because they live in your hometown? These are really several things you should consider before selecting your entertainer:

Is the entertainer experienced in providing services for your event type? This question can’t just be answered in a yes or no question either. You’ll want someone who knows the ropes. How much experience do you want your entertainer to have? Consider getting a list of references from previous clients.
Who will really be the entertainer at your event? Often times with larger multi-operational companies you won’t really know who your entertainer is until that night. Is this something you’re willing to accept? Always question this question when shopping for entertainment and make sure it’s laid out clear and concise in your contract.
What type of equipment do you deserve to have at your event? Imagine not being able to know announcements or even worse hearing a hiss or buzz during your event. Imagine having part of your perfectly decorated event contain an eyesore of wires and beat up equipment. Another vital face is just because an entertainer charges top dollar doesn’t always mean they’ll bring top dollar equipment to your event. Getting a picture of their setup is a must!
What additional services are included other than just playing music? Will you need a master of ceremonies (emcee) at your event, a coordinator, or even someone to interact and participate with your crowd? Is your entertainer willing to step up to the plate and deliver those services? These can be vital things to question before your event. You’d despise to hire an entertainer who can’t entertain.
Is your entertainer and elegant public speaker? Do they speak in complete sentences without stuttering and using um and uh? Public speaking is said to be one of the number one fears in the United States. If someone isn’t excellent at speaking in person odds are they won’t be able to speak in front of your crowd. This is a very vital aspect of the entertainer can be over looked.
Is backup equipment provided and immediately available? As you know all electronics are man-made and with all man-made products they can fail. So it’s vital that your entertainer have not only backup equipment but also a backup plot. Question your entertainer for their backup plot.
What happens if the entertainer is ill or otherwise cannot attend your event? These details should be laid out in a written contract form with EVERY service provider. Always lay these things out prior to your event to prevent any situations later on.
Is your entertainer insured? Every legitimate business has insurance. This may not seem vital upfront, but heaven forbid something were to happen at your event. Are you willing to hire an entertainer without it? Question your entertainer for his proof of property AND liability insurance.
Are there any hidden additional charges or expected necessities from your entertainer? For example, are you required to pay a service charge for stairs at the reception hall? Or are you required to pay for their dinner? Will they need to take smoke breaks? If you’re entertainer doesn’t cover these issues in their sales pitch perhaps you should question them.
How much input will you be able to give on your music selection? This can also be a very vital question when you’re shopping for entertainment. Everyone has their own tastes and preferences when it comes to music. Will your entertainer be able to cater to those tastes or will they stick to their own routine. Also does your entertainer offer online music plotting?

With so much riding on the success of your event your entertainment should never be over looked. There should be several factors that come into play rather than just price when shopping for your wedding entertainment. Don’t ever be worried to question questions as the entertainment will have a direct impact on the entire success of your reception.

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Age appropriate:

What is the age range of the kids that you are looking to entertain? Usually, a parent would want entertainment not only for their child but for the guests as well. We know that your child likes Elmo, but you have invited other kids to the party as well. You may want to consider entertainment that would cater to the appropriate age group invited as opposed to just the birthday child. A professional entertainer would know how to make the birthday child feel special without making the other kids feel not included.

A clown isn’t just a clown:

Please consider the person behind the make up. Performers vary greatly in approach and style. The best example is when people hire a costumed character, let’s say Elmo. Please, consider the person who will be wearing that costume. Kids have an incredible intuition and can pick up on each others fears. A seasoned professional will know how to cool those anxieties very early on and bring the group together into the fun zone.

Use your best judgment:

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Do some homework on the performer before you commit: Are they a full time kids entertainer? Are they patient and genuinely like children? (Kids require a lots of patience) Do they project a professional image? (Website, Demo, Costume etc.) Can you find reviews or testimonials on them? (Websites reviews, Local library reviews, etc.)

Budget:

Like any other service, you sometimes get what you pay for. Consider entertainment into your budget, a excellent entertainer can make your party all the worthwhile. It’s not about quantity, it’s about quality. If you want someone to do a magic show, a puppet show, sculpt balloon animals and do face painting for 0, then hire your neighbor’s teenage son. Make sure to give him a advance to get the supplies from the dollar store. But if you want a professional, make sure that they are specialized in their field and they are at the top of their game.

Logistics:

Consider to question the performer these logistical questions before you commit: How much space do you need? Can you perform indoors and outdoors? Do you provide your own sound equipment? What do you need us to prepare for your act?

Key Words to consider:

Let’s assume that you live in the San Francisco Bay Area Copy and paste the keywords that apply to you into your favorite search engine such as Google, Yahoo, MSN, QUESTION etc. Consider using broad geographic terms such as Bay area, San Francisco Bay Area. If you live in a large metropolis consider using your city name like : San Jose, Milpitas, Santa Clara, San Francisco, San Ramon, Marin, Daly City, Menlo Park etc. San Jose Kids entertainer, San Jose children Entertainment Bay Area birthday party entertainer, Birthday party entertainer Kids birthday party entertainer, Bay Area Puppet Shows, birthday party balloons 1st birthday party, boys birthday party, bay area birthday party character, magic shows Party Entertainers in the San Francisco Bay Area, birthday party venues in the bay area birthday party thoughts, party puppet shows, corporate entertainment party favors for kids, kids party favors, 1st birthday supplies, birthday comedian bay area birthday party themes, entertainer bay area, entertainers bay area clown, clowns, magician, magicians, mime, bay area party clowns, entertainers San Jose children entertainment for kids, bay area birthday party themes, the entertainers, the bay area entertainers, wedding entertainer, event entertainer Bay area kids events, bay area kids party, Clowns Childrens Entertainers Bay Area children party bay area, kids party San Francisco, Magicians bay area, Magic shows bay area.

A professional entertainer can bring your guests together into the pleased zone and make an atmosphere of joy and laughter. A committed kids entertainer can also add magic and theatrics into the memories of kids and grown ups alike. As a Bay Area entertainer, I have committed myself to making my next child’s party the only party that counts. Now, it’s Show-Time!

How vital is keeping your existing clients and employees for your organization? Showing appreciation to clients and your staff can boost morale, strengthen business relationships and help your company grow. Having the right entertainment at your event will accomplish that!

So how do you break from the ordinary and book entertainment that is new and engaging for your group? Below are some suggestions to make the hiring process simpler for you.

1. Plot Your Event
Plot how would like the evening to go. If you know the exact type of entertainment you are having, then plot the event around that entertainment. Otherwise, plot out time for the different events and make a time-table. If you haven’t chose on the entertainment then be sure to leave some room in your time-table for adjustments. The setup of the room can vary depending on the performer you desire, and the itinerary can change as well.

2. Know Your Budget
Know how much you can spend on entertainment before approaching entertainers to find out about their acts. What you can spend on an entertainer will often dictate the level of entertainment you get. Every event has a budget and you need to stay within it and meet your needs. But, hiring an entertainer based solely on them being the lowest priced can lead to disaster. Place things in a better perspective, you may wish to determine your “per-person” cost budgeted for entertainment or activities. The finest food and beverages will soon be a fading memory to your guests, but high quality entertainment makes an emotional impact and lasting impression. How much fun they had at your event is what makes lasting memories.

3. Be Prepared to Discuss Your Event and Your Budget
Any professional entertainer is going to be asking you questions about your event, such as what type of event you are having, how many guests you expect, if there is a theme to the event, a general timeline of the event, etc. By doing this, they are determining if their act is a excellent match for your group and function. They may even be able to present thoughts to enhance your event that you hadn’t thought of yet! Question the entertainer if they offer any special packages. Your entertainer may have a package that will make your event extra special. By discussing your budget with them, you are also finding out if they are within your price range. If so you can go on with the process; if not, you are saving everyone time and should call the next entertainer on your list.

4. Request References and Promotional Material
If after your initial contact with the entertainer you feel comfortable with them and you both agree that there is a possibility that they will be a excellent match for your group, question them for references and promotional materials. You will find that most entertainers have websites that will contain most of the promotional materials, if not all of it. If an entertainer cannot provide you with references then DO NOT engage this performer.

5. Call References and Review the Promotional Material
After calling references and reviewing the promotional material, you may have more questions for the entertainer. Give them a call and get your concerns addressed and all questions answered.

Make sure that your entertainer is a corporate entertainment specialist that knows the needs and expectations of the corporate environment. A comedian that regularly performs “R” rated shows in comedy clubs or a magician that typically works at child birthday parties would probably not make a suitable choices for a typical corporate conference!

6. Question About a Guarantee
Want some real peace of mind when trying to plot your corporate event? If an entertainer presents a quality presentation and has enough experience, they should be willing to guarantee their services. As them what they guarantee!

7. Request a Contract
The entertainer should provide you with a contract outlining your agreement along with the date, location of your event as well as any other arrangements agreed upon. Unless you are booking a celebrity performer, the agreement will probably be no more than a couple of pages in length.

The contract should clearly state what you will be required to provide for the event, such as a sound system or lighting requirements, and what the entertainer will be providing. In some cases some of this information will come in the form of a Technical Rider which is sent with the contract. The agreement should also cover deposits (typically 50% of the total fee) travel fees, per diem charges, meals and transportation. All of this should have been discussed in the initial phone call, and there should not be any surprises for you on the agreement. Most entertainers will require the contract signed and returned with the deposit within a certain timeframe of sending it.

8. Communicate
Your entertainer is there to enhance your event. Keeping him or her informed of any changes in your event helps them to bring you the show you would like, especially if they are doing any customized material for you. If they are doing a customized performance for you event it is essential to get the needed information to them as early as possible.

A professional entertainer will also want to make sure they are there early to setup and do sound checks before the scheduled show time.

9. Promote the Event
Get people excited about the event by promoting the fantastic entertainment you have booked for them! Your entertainer should be able to make this simple for you by providing you with articles, press releases, or photos that you can use in your event literature to build anticipation. Some entertainers are willing to provide “teaser” performances in order to get people excited to come to your event!

10. Sit Back, Relax, and Delight in the Show!
By using these simple steps, you should feel confident that the entertainer you have chosen is a professional. You’ve worked hard up until this point, so sit back and delight in what you’ve place together!

For more tips on hiring corporate entertainment visit http://www.paranormalmind.com.

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First of all, the only limitations in life are the ones we make, believe, and nourish within our own minds. This book will be a success because I believe in it, I am willing to work extremely hard to make it a success, and our society needs this book – not because it has many fun games, but because the entire purpose is to bring families together more and provide wholesome entertainment for everyone. In fact, while I recognize that shock value and immorality does sell, that fact alone inspires me even more to tell the world about this book because of how much individuals, families, and our society need to spend more time as a family participating in wholesome activities rather than participating in and viewing the immoral and inappropriate entertainment we are daily bombarded by.

In addition, what people also fail to realize is the positive moral and social impacts that playing games has on individuals and families everywhere. How can anyone argue against or dispute the fact that our TV programs, movies, video games, and any other form of entertainment are filled with immorality, violence, foul language, graphic images, and pornography. In addition, an excessive amount of playing video games, watching TV, going to the movies, listening to our iPods, or wasting time on the internet is certainly not helping improve communication and social skills (not to mention intellectual skills). Similarly, how can anyone not agree with the fact that spending time as a family – yes, even if it is simply playing games – has incredible positive ramifications that the majority of the entertainment of the world does not provide? Because this is right, it should give much more significance to the moral and social ramifications that playing games as a family – or participating in any clean and wholesome entertainment – can have not only for us individually and as a family, but for our entire society.

Below are listed 10 moral and social impacts that playing games can have. As you will notice, there are also incredible intellectual, mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual benefits as well (not to mention the increased communication abilities that result). The reality is that these same principles apply to all clean and wholesome entertainment; but for our intents and purposes, we will focus on how playing games really does have incredibly positive moral and social impacts:

Moral Impacts:

1) The negative moral impact of our society’s media and entertainment: While I recognize that there are certainly positive things that come from the media and entertainment of our society, I am also not ignorant of the fact that the vast majority is extremely sexual, violent, materialistic, indulgent, and pornographic in nature. The effects of this daily bombardment are evident everywhere, demonstrated by the ever-increasing disrespect, idleness, obesity, lustfulness, selfishness, and laziness that plagues our society and diminishes our potential. Again, this is not so much about playing games or even participating in clean entertainment so much as it is about ensuring that individuals, families, and our very society develop the attributes and character necessary for personal happiness, family success, and societal progression.

2) Marriages and families are torn apart: I wish it weren’t right, but unfortunately for us all – sex, immorality, and immodesty sells. As a few greedy individuals and companies make a profit from this sleazy material, the realistic and sad result is that – thoughts are corrupted, commitments and responsibilities are discarded, selfishness and temporary gratification become more vital than self control, sins and crimes are committed, addictions are developed, families are torn apart, marriages end, and slowly our society’s very foundational values have disintegrated. Keeping thoughts clean, turning away from temptation, or altogether avoiding pornography is becoming increasingly more hard considering the fact that – the vast majority of movies, TV shows, songs, magazines, advertisements, and websites are immoral, immodest, sexual, and pornographic in nature. We are daily bombarded … and thus daily fighting a battle. It is a battle to keep our thoughts, actions, habits, and character clean and pure and chaste. Again – this is not about playing games – this is about keeping commitments, being faithful to our spouse and children, and ensuring that our marriages and families are not torn apart.

3) Winning and Losing – and the importance to deal appropriately with both: Let’s face it, each one of us will experience much failure and success throughout life. It is one thing to lose a video game in solitude, it is quite another to be defeated in a game with peers or family watching. But learning how to be a humble and fun winner, and also a excellent sport and not a sore loser will translate appropriately into the other successes and inevitable failures of life. 

4) To learn how to follow rules, not cheat, strive for goals, and deal with challenges: If someone can not follow the rules of a game, will they follow the rules of life? Perhaps that is a stretch, but it is vital to consider regardless. If someone can learn the vital lesson of not cheating in a game, will that translate into their studies, work habits, and relationships? Many games also have ‘missions’ or objectives, and often a player has to implement a strategy or develop an action plot or goals to accomplish that ‘mission.’ Not a terrible lesson to learn, in my opinion! And every game certainly has its challenges, set backs, uncontrollable twists and turns – learning how to not only adjust, but deal with them maturely and appropriately is certainly an attribute that can be translated into other areas of life!

5) Avoid the consequences that result from selfish, crude, and lustful entertainment: Perhaps the greatest problem with the vast majority of entertainment of our society is the fact that it is so completely self-gratifying in nature. How often are businesses started, movies made, and shows performed to simply fill time, collect money, and satisfy selfish desires and lusts. Temporary satisfaction, immediate gratification, and discarded integrity and commitments unfortunately replaces the real joy, confidence, health, savings, conscience, and happiness that excellent, fun, and clean entertainment can provide. Usually the only result of such selfish and lustful entertainment is shame, embarrassment, guilt, time wasted, money lost, responsibilities avoided, commitments disregarded, and even potential legal consequences that seem to inevitably be a companion to such forms of entertainment.

Social Impacts:

6) To have fun and participate in enjoyable, social, and wholesome entertainment: Perhaps most importantly, playing games is just fun! It is recreation, entertainment, and enjoyment – but in a positive, constructive, interacting, and learning environment. Not only can one develop self-esteem, develop a skill or talent, become proud of an accomplishment, or simply develop the ability to interact and work with others – they also have fun! There is something to be said to the simple and positive psychological benefits that will inevitably result when children, teens, adults, groups, and families spend more time playing games together and less time in front of the electronic devises that comparatively can not produce the same positive benefits!

7) Developing the ability to communicate and interact with others: How unfortunate it is that an increasingly large amount of our youth today can not converse with an adult, look them in the eye, or even show any respect for them. Is this so because of the reality that many of our youth are spending much of their waking hours in front of a computer, or playing video games, etc. I am sure there is some correlation. Turning off the TV and computer and playing games (not video games) allows and sometimes forces an individual to interact with, speak to, and be involved with others. Yes, you are just playing a simple game – but hopefully an vital skill and attribute is being developed in the process.

8) The ability to work with others in a team environment: In correlation with the above point, playing games allows (forces) an individual to work with, interact with, and play as a team. Again – it is just a silly game right – but welcome to the real world of the absolute necessity of working and dealing with others. From group school projects, to participation in community athletics, to the eventual work-force – learning to work and deal with others, and being part of a ‘team’ is an vital skill to develop for the realities of life!

9) The absolute importance of educating, using, and stretching our minds: In my opinion, it takes very small (if any) effort at all to watch a movie, surf the web, or play a video game. Why is high school, college, and that eventual first job so hard … because a child has not developed the ability to use their mind in a creative, disciplined way. Playing games is not only fun, it requires us to be creative, reckon quick on our feet, pull out information and facts we once learned, deal with a challenge, etc. Games force our minds to be active, not idle! Games require social interaction, not introverted self-removal. Games use and require a part of the brain that enhances other aspects of life.

10) Learn from others: One of my most favorite things to do when playing games is simply to observe other players. How do they reckon, how do they act, how do they deal with victory or defeat, how do they interact with others, etc. The moment an individual steps away from the TV and computer (and its unending negative influences) and starts to interact with and observe others, they will soon find that they can be influenced positively (or even learn from terrible examples) by observing and implementing the actions and attributes of others.

In conclusion, it is vital to note that there are certainly many forms of entertainment that are wholesome, clean, and uplifting; but, it is clearly evident that the vast majority of movies, TV shows, advertisements, commercials, websites, and even songs epitomize the immoral and negative impacts of our society’s entertainment that this article discusses. Because of this daily bombardment, it is not enough to just play games and participate in clean and wholesome entertainment because the immoral entertainment seems to always bombard us – whether we seek it out or not. We each must make a resolve to turn the TV off more, turn off the internet more, place down the magazine more, etc. and ensure that the negative influences of our society’s media and entertainment do not ruin who and what is most vital in life – our family!

There are many types of entertainment for particular tastes, for example we have cinema, theatre, sports, games, social dance, concert, comedy shows, animations, impressionists, clowns and the list goes on and on.

These form of entertainment can than be divided into groups  according to the age and interest of the people being entertained. For instance we have child entertainment, adult entertainment, live action entertainment, public entertainment and corporate entertainment. In this article we’ll give a brief explanation to some of these forms.

Child Entertainment

Kids need to be entertained and some times the entertainer or the entertainment agency needs to find a balance between mental and physical activities. Clowns, puppets, pantomimes and cartoons tend to appeal to children, though adult might find it enjoyable too.

Adult Entertainment

Adult Entertainment many times is related to the sex industry, but this form of entertainment can not be related only with the sex industry and its branches. Adult Entertainment involves things like music concerts, live sports, opera and a hand full of other activities that kids might not find so appealing.

Live Entertainment

This form of entertainment is broadened to all ages as there are a variety of activities that can marked as live entertainment. For instance music concerts, live TV shows, live sports, theatres and any other activity that you could reckon of that is aimed to amuse people.

Public Entertainment

Nowadays probably one of the forms of entertainment that have grown the most, thanks to the economic downturn. When you walk around any major city around Europe you will notice a wide range of public entertainers working for any amount of money the public decides to give them. There are public entertainers of all sorts from mimes to Peruvian Flute bands all working with the uncertainty of how much money they will make, that is why they tend to be more common in major cities where there are more tourists.

Corporate Entertainment

Aimed for corporate events, private parties, award ceremonies, product launches and it is better organised by a professional entertainment agency as most of time these events involve hundreds maybe thousands of people and no one better than the professionals to take care of these form of entertainment..

With these we cover the major forms of entertainment n the following article I’ll clarify in depth each one of them with more details and examples.

 The quest for information is growing daily and the relevance of media as a supplier and disseminators of information to large populations cannot be overemphasized.   The Media is recognized as a powerful tool that is indispensable and capable of presentation of factual and balanced information that can shape public opinions and enhance structural change in human behaviour.  But, their roles today are becoming more worrisome and misunderstood especially in the area of sexuality.  There exist today raging controversies surrounding the way sexuality is being described in the media in respect of the way the media tends to reinforce stereotypes and coverage of sexual issues (Tiemoko, 2006. p.6-10) and the extent of religious silence over these media activities.

Today, a publication might be regarded as incomplete without featuring a scantily clad girl or presenting sex figures (Suzanne, et al (2006). The preponderance of sexual attractive scenes inform of entertainment is becoming appalling and called for concern especially in this age that the younger ones are the closest to such media especially the visual media (e.g. television, video, etc).  The effects of uncontrolled, uncultured and illicit sexual behaviour such as HIV/AIDS, unwanted/unplanned pregnancies, dropping out of school, unemployment, poverty, crimes, and overall consequences on economic development cannot be overemphasized.  Thus, there is need for adequate assessment to learn and filter out incorrect information and the sources of such information in the lives of these adolescents who are supposed to be the future leaders of our society. 

Regulation of sexual behaviour supposed to be the general concern of many religious groups at all times and in every setting.  But the extent to which any religious group can regulate sexual behaviour of her congregation or society depends on  whether such religion is world–rejecting in its response to the prevalence of societal values or whether it has become world affirming (Ojo, 2007).  The side in which the religion belongs determines the perspective of sexuality as well as her response to the society in which it operates.

While some evangelical groups have succeeded in conservatism approach to sexual behaviour, several have veered away from this traditional religious conservatism.  The Oneida community of New York in the mid-eighteenth century practiced free like with common wives and single family structure and the Mormons practice of a form of polygamy that encouraged mating to populate the world with godly children (Foster, 1994).  Also the Odumosu Emmanuel, the Jesus of Oyingbo’ saga at Maryland, Lagos is another vivid example of possession of sexual privileges over female members and wives.  There are therefore several initiatives that encourage sexual latitude in the Christendom today with yet untold effects on the new generation of adolescents among which is the global news of recent ordination of homosexual gays as priests and Bishops in Anglican sect.  All these are pointers to the sexual latitude being permitted by the church.  The manner in which religious groups especially christianity permits, is silent on adult entertainment and all its associate influencing factor of sexuality raises questions on what the moral responsibility of churches is regarding sexuality and it also raises question about the new societal perspective of responsible sexuality.

According to Monroy de Valasco (1982), the developing countries have over 1 billion adolescents who are physically ancient enough to reproduce but who are far too young to be responsible healthy parents of healthy children (Monroy de Valasco, 1982).  The above assertion could not be unconnected with the absence of the vital sexuality information in homes and uncontrolled access the young folks are having to mostly uncensored scenes.  Ill-informed children especially in the areas of procreativity could engender irresponsible adults/parents with fantastic adverse effect on their siblings and the circle might continue if nothing is done to salvage the situation.  Thus, this research was instituted to break the circle of misinformation and misperceptions regarding adult entertainment in our society.

The globalization of western culture, although with positive advancement in economic development, has engendered infiltration of this culture into fabrics of Nigeria system with visible dominance (Rodney, 1976).  This is more pronounced in some lifestyles like dressing, speaking, work ethics, mode of entertainment and views on sexuality.   One of the sources of this is adult entertainment pivoted and propelled by the media.  Adult entertainment comprises all activities where predominantly women perform sexual acts for payment that include all sex shows, live sex shows – lap and pole dancing, sports bars, stripping, saunas (with extras), prostitution.   It also includes ‘pay-to-view’ internet access and TV/DVD’s, pornography, telephone sex lines, sex shops, etc. (YWCA, 2006).   It is no gain saying that these activities have crept into Nigerian society and remained till date due, amongst others, to the hunger for westernization. 

In all spheres of life, sexuality is considered vital and unavoidable especially in the religious arena where it is traditionally affirmed to be a divinely bestowed blessing for expressing like and generating life and for mutual companionship and pleasure but it also so much bedeviled with misuse, exploitation, abuse, and suffering (RAND Health, 2007).  This therefore implies that sexuality matters require wisdom which should start to develop from childhood.  Inasmuch as it is vital for the young people to know about their sexuality, it is equally vital that the sources of such information should be unbiased, free from misconception and thoroughly monitored by the older people like the parents.  Thus, this study was therefore carried out to examine the effect of adult entertainment, assess its level of pollution and its potential magnitude in terms of influencing adolescents’ sexual behaviour.  

Testable propositions were proffered to ascertain whether adult entertainment has adverse effect on young adolescents’ sexuality, to confirm parents’ style in Nigeria as encouragement to accessing obscene materials and test whether sex education can serve as a substitute to adult entertainment in the sex lives of adolescents.

The apriori expectation was that the study will help in providing solution to incorrect and inappropriate sex information brought about by exposure to adult entertainment by young adolescents.   It is conceived that adult entertainment could implant misconceptions about sex into the young folks and lead to incorrect and inappropriate demonstration of such sexual activities that may inadvertently degenerate to unimaginable delinquencies such as teen-parenting, abortion, masturbation, rape, exhibitionism, voyeurism, to mention but few.  This pilot study would but lay foundation for a larger study from which other generalizations can be made

Literature Review

Adolescence and sexual development

According to Dehart, Sroufe & Cooper (2004), adolescence can be thought of as a second revolution in human development, the first occurring during the toddler period, when a child emerges from an infant.  During adolescence, a child is transformed into a young adult and qualitative advances can be visible in all developmental areas especially the physical changes.  Just as toddlers lose their former babyish shape, so do adolescents lose the look of children.  Not only do they grow taller, heavier and stronger, but their body proportions change and secondary sex characteristics develop.  For males this includes a broadening of the shoulders, enlargement of the genitals, and growth of hair on various parts of the body.  For females it includes widening of the hips, development of breasts, and the growth of pubic and underarm hair.  Both sexes, of course, buy the capacity for reproduction.

Adolescents develop a much greater feeling of autonomy, which is why psychoanalytic theorists refer to adolescence as a second individuation.  The first individuation occurs in toddler hood, when children come to know their basic separateness from parents (Dehart et al; 2004). In adolescence, the individuation process is carried much further.  Now young people come to know they have inner feelings that even parents cannot know.  Accompanying this individuation is deidentification with parents (Dehart et al; 2004).  Teenagers are moving towards their own ideals, goals, and values, their own unique characters.  They are establishing a sense of personal identity; a knowledge of who they are as separate from their parents, and of what their place in the world is.

Most adolescents do not receive any information about reproduction or contraception from their parents.  It was established that the level of discussion on sexuality between children and their parents is a function of the quality of the relationship they have with them (Papini, et al, 1998) as well as their levels of self esteem and individuation (Papini et al; 1998).  This last point suggests that young adolescents especially, will not bring their sexual concerns to their parents because they are still in the early stages of the process of individuation.  Because of this, they tend to turn to some other sources of information on their sexuality.

Obscenity and sexual behaviour

There is widespread belief that a causal relationship exists between an allegedly increased dissemination of obscene material and the increase of juvenile delinquency rates.   Observations show that most children start viewing television in early childhood the major cause of fears among the parents regarding its adverse effects.  For the pre-school child, television in modern America now fulfils the function that the grandparent is said to have performed in a less hectic age—- that of an amusing babysitter. Children on the average watch television for two or three hours a day (Himmelweit et al; 1958).  Many view even the late evening programmes.  Nielsen ratings show that of an audience of 100 at 10 p.m., eight are teen-agers and six are children; as late as 11:30 p.m., five teen-agers and three children are still in the audience (New York Times; 1960) The other media are pale in significance when compared to television. Radio as a source of entertainment has been largely supplanted by the newer medium; it is in places where television cannot reach that radio listening is widespread. Only comic books start to compete with television for the child’s interest. One research team found that 83 per cent of the children in their sample; under 11 years of age, and 50 per cent of those between 11 and 17 years,  read more than two comics a week (Lazarsfeld, et al,1948-9).

Religion and adult entertainment

A major characteristic of adult entertainment is nudity and scanty dressing and the two traits could be used interchangeably to describe adult entertainment as being shown by the media.  It has eaten deep into the fabric of the society today and represents a common way of life of most adolescents.  Pornography per se connotes any material depicting or describing the human body or sexual conduct in a way that arouses sexual feelings.  It is distributed through many media, including magazines, books, television, movies, music, and the internet. It is as harmful to the spirit as tobacco, alcohol, and drugs are to the body

In recent past, relaxation on dressing habit was not as visibly rampant as experience today, especially among young girls in Nigeria. The sanctity of proper dressing was always adhered to few years back.  Until now, proper dressing was regarded as socio-cultural and normal moral standard that required no instruction or advice before it is followed by every man and woman.   It was normal to find young girls appropriately dressing in a manner that represents dignity and respect for womanhood.   Nowadays, the event has been overturned and conspicuously replaced by obscene habit of half nakedness and nudity.  While the phenomenon would have been regarded as mere advent of new culture or cultural imposition from the western world, it is surprising that it’s excessively show in common and ‘reserved places’ calls for concern.  Also, the fact that the category concerned falls in the specific younger age groups and especially among the young adolescents girls make it a worrisome development that could have some specific effects in the future development of these groups and perhaps a damaging missile into the lives of the adolescents who are the most vulnerable group. 

Religiously, clothing should be regarded as an invitation to virtue rather than being an incitement to sin.  It is therefore a surprise to see different things around in the world today.  The purpose of clothing has been lost in the society today and the seemingly sneaky behaviour in the past has permeated the nooks and crannies of religious centres, especially the church.  But while some clerics or religious houses frown at this phenomenon, several sanction this trend either by omission or commission and it is now looking like a common thing to stare virtually into parts of the human body network from the dressing habits of some adolescents and even adults.

The traditional central tenet of Christian perspective on sexuality has been chastity.  This gives rise to the morality of abstinence from pre-marital sex, healthy boy-girl relationship and higher value for virginity.  But, the observable uncontrolled permissiveness in terms of the ‘ingredient of promiscuousness’ in some highly referred places calls for concern and this has been, among others, preventing ordinary observers in classifying the churches as either pro-healthy sexuality or anti-healthy sexuality.    

Pornography

There exists a world of difference between pornography and obscenity irrespective of the way and manner they are being used interchangeably.  While pornography implies films, pictures, magazines, etc that present or contain sexual activities or information that intend to make people sexually excited, obscenity refers to the offensive behaviour and languages conditioned by such pornography  (Macmillan English Dictionary, 2006 Edition).  According to the Encyclopedia of Ethics, pornography is defined as “the sexually explicit depiction of persons, in words or images, made with the primary, proximate aim, and reasonable hope, of eliciting significant sexual arousal on the part of the consumer of such materials.” (VanDeBeer 1992, 991).  But while the illicit, erotic arousal caused cannot be easily determined on the spot it will eventually transform and manifest in sexual mis-behaviour.  This thus calls for serious concern because it would eventual develop and constitute a social problem that portends fantastic danger for a transiting economy like Nigeria.

The question of how pornography affects human behaviors and attitudes has been a considerable source of controversy and public concern. Vehement oppositions to pornography are based on the fact that it encourages immorality, sexual violence and negative attitudes toward women notwithstanding the support it gained as harmless diversion that may serve to relieve sexual tensions for adults.   In 1986 U.S. Attorney General’s Commission on Pornography concluded that violent pornography “bears a causal relationship to antisocial acts of sexual violence” and that degrading pornography “bears some causal relationship” to violence, sexual aggression, and negative attitudes, such as the myth that women delight in being raped.   Studies indicate that men who viewed films that were both violent and sexually explicit recorded the highest levels of aggression, followed by those who viewed sexually explicit but nonviolent films. Men record the highest levels of aggression after viewing pornography that describes women as being sexually aroused by the violence perpetrated against them. According to American researchers Edward Donnerstein, Daniel Lenz, and Steven Penrod, “It is this unique feature of violent pornography—the presentation of the thought that women find sexual violence arousing—that plays an vital role in producing violent pornography’s effects.” But, studies have found small correlation between purely erotic nonviolent films and violence or aggression against women (Downs, 2007).

Cultivation theory

Cultivation theory suggests that frequent viewing increases the likelihood of the adoption of expressed values and beliefs that will ultimately alter actual behavior (Brown, 1993; Brown, et al, 1995; Gerbner, et al, 1986). When applied to adolescents’ television consumption, it implies that higher rates of viewing could bring about greater changes in values, beliefs, and resulting behaviors.  In this context, greater exposure to sexual content could lead to greater acceptance of the gender stereotypes (Walsh-Childers, et al, 1993).  Notwithstanding, other evidence suggests that exposure to media content is not equivalent to paying attention to that content (Ward & Rivadeneyra, 1999), especially in an adolescent population where multiple media consumption is common and television use acts as a background to other activities like homework or eating.  But, Grube and Wallack (1994) assumed the level of attention and emotional response given to televised alcohol advertising can mediate the influence of a message as well as the level of identification with the communicator. 

The theory therefore supports the premise that constant exposure of adolescents to adult entertainment such as pornography would eventually lead to their adoption of such practices as well as cultivating them as habits.  This may lead to juvenile delinquencies and vices such as rape, masturbation, prostitution and so on.  Hence, it is deduced with the help of this theory that adult entertainment (which is for adults by the way) could have adverse effects on young adolescents’ sexual behaviour.  As such, entertainment is not targeted for consumption by people of their age.   Also, an earlier study by Healy and Brumer, it was concluded that delinquents were more frequent among movie-goers than other who don’t (Healy, et al, 1936), a finding that was also corroborated by Gluecks (Glueck and Glueck; 1950).  While it is not unlikely that they established a causal relationship between motion picture viewing and juvenile delinquency, it could be assumed that a person who attends movies more often could likely have a stronger urge than the non-delinquent boys for exciting outlets.

Research design

A survey research technique was employed in the study that was carried out in Lagos State of Nigeria and the study population consists of adolescents who fall within the ages of 12 and 24 years inclusive.  Both sexes were included in order to identify the various perspectives of both sexes on the subject matter and to offer opportunity for assessing the influence of the variable on all categories of adolescents.

Although a systematic sampling technique was used in selecting respondents who are adolescents in the study area, the choice of the study areas was very subjective.  The prevalence of constant supply of electricity and other social amenities were considered as the basic determinants of access to the medium of watching or reading materials relating to adult entertainment.  Thus, the resident Districts of Ikeja (GRA), part of Oshodi and Yaba were purposively selected.  In this area, simple random sampling method and Primary Health Care (PHC) house numbering guided the selection of respondents who were interviewed on face-to-face approach. Only 10 houses were selected in each of the 4 enumeration areas chosen in each district.  Overall, 114 questionnaires were processed out of the 120 respondents interviewed by well structured questionnaires.  Two separate focus group discussion (FGD) were organized in these locations for more findings and confirmation of interview outcome

Data analysis

Distributive statistics were employed to assess the socio-demographic characteristic of the respondents and inter-dependent association amongst identified variables and indulgence in adult entertainment.  Data collected were analyzed with SPSS. The frequency distribution, cross tabulations and regression techniques were employed and the empirical results presented in tabular forms.  The hypotheses were tested using the Chi- square (X2) method of analysis, at 5% level of significance, and the appropriate degrees of freedom.  All tables are appended to this paper.

Results and Discussions

This section focuses on discussions of the results from the data analysis.  Several cross- examinations were also made among the identified factors responsible for adolescents’ motivation in indulging in adult entertainment. 

Demographic characteristics of respondents

Sex ratio of Nigeria was purposively used in apportioning quota for both sexes and about 51 males and 63 females were selected as our total sample.  The study revealed that an overwhelming proportion (72%) of respondent’s parents are living together as at the time of survey (82%) while about 10% were from divorced homes (table 1).  This implies that majority of respondents are from stable homes adjudged capable of providing information on sexuality.    The level of rapport within the family is below average (32%), about 11% relates at distant with their parents while about 48% held close tie to parents just because of financial needs. The “Parent-Child-Rapport” is quite below average in the study area.  This could be influenced by the working nature in the environment where several parent will have to leave home early and come back very late in the night.  This situation does not but appear conducive for close parental care or relationship except on holidays.  Also the study area belong to high social classes where most childcare are entrusted into the hands of nanny, house girl / boy or in some cases the grannies.

Sexuality communication is relatively absent in Nigeria or perhaps below expectation especially among the respondents studied. It is expected that highly educated parent would always be able to communicate adequately with their children on such a matter but the study revealed the contrary.  Only a quarter of respondents have ever received sexuality information from their parents.  About the same number (25%) have it on a continuous basis while only 28% have never discussed it with their parents (table 1).   Among those who have ever received such enlightenment, only 14.9% of the total respondents delight in freedom of discussing any sensitive issue at home with their parents.  Majority of respondents are not permitted nor have the freedom to chat on sexual issues with those they are staying with or their parents.    But, about 48 (i.e. 42.1%) out of the whole respondents are currently in an intimate sexual relationship. About 18 (15.8%) have experienced broken relationship at their tender ages (table 1).

Adolescents, media and adult entertainment

Despite the fact that information about sexuality is lacking in most homes, several parents have consented to (‘permission by impression’) sexual relationship between their boys and girls and other girls and boys respectively.  This represents the parent that directly or indirectly approved social relationship between their girls / boys and other boys and girls.  About 35.1% of the respondents answered ‘Yes’ to the question: Are your parents aware about your relationship with your boy friend (s)/ girl friend (s)?  About 11% will never dare allowing their parents to know of such relationship (table 2).

The study shows that about 57.9% watch television for about 2-5 hours per day, followed by 28.9% watchers for between 6-8 hours, while only 7.9% claimed they watch television for up to 9 and 12 hours daily.  Others that watch above this hour were completely ignored purposively.  This finding is in line with American experience where an average teenager is observed to be watching three hours of television a day and that most events they watch contains heavy doses of sexual content, ranging from touching, kissing, jokes, and innuendo to conversations about sexual activity and portrayals of intercourse (Collins, et al, 2004).  Virtually all respondents have access to internet facility and about 84.2% surf internet for an average of 2-5 hours per day (table 2).  While majority would not want to do so in the presence of their parents, about 26% would not mind even browsing while father or mum is present.

Exposure to adult entertainment and sexual behaviour

While there are various media through which adolescents get exposed to them, the most common source is therefore TV as confirmed by the study.  Over 75% encounter such on TV programs. About 65% get in contact with pornography via videos while print media and internet offer 40% and 35% of pornography shows respectively, thus affirming the generalization that majority of adolescents view or get exposed to adult entertainment through watching television and seeing movies.   About 2/3 of the respondents have ever experienced sexual intercourse and nearly half of this figure (48.8%) were exposure so adult entertainment while about 51.2% have not (table 3). Also, the report shows that 10 out of 32 respondents who have not experienced sexual intercourse claimed they have never been exposed to adult entertainment at all.

Adolescents’ opinion about adult entertainment

Table 4 shows that 45.6% of the respondents strongly agreed to the fact that adult entertainment gingers instinct to have sexual intercourse while 20.4% of the total respondents disagreed.  About 0.9% could not make up their minds while 28.1 % only agreed that the habit can influence sexual desire.  Overall, 82 respondents out of a total of 114 respondents admitted that viewing or indulging in adult entertainment could result in adversely affecting the sexuality of adolescents.

Three hypotheses were formulated viz: (1) that adult entertainment has an adverse effect on young adolescents’ sexuality (2) that the parenting lifestyle encourage young adolescents to go into adult entertainment and (3) that sex education can serve as a substitute to adult entertainment in the sex lives of adolescents. The results are indicated in table 5, 6 and 7 respectively.  These were tested using statistical method of Chi- square (X2). This was calculated using SPSS.

The proposition that adult entertainment could have negative effect on adolescent’s sexual behaviour was confirmed (table 5).  At 5% level of significance, X2 tab is far less than the X2 cal(100.56).  Therefore one can assert following the observation of Walsh-Childers & Brown (1993) that greater exposure will culminate in adoption and manifestation of such illicit sexual behaviour.  A child that is exposed to sexual content will tend to behave along the scene he / she viewed. 

Table 5 revealed that the style of parenting in Nigeria encourages their adolescents to go into adult entertainment (X2 cal = 29.86).  This finding is supported by Tschann & Adler (1997) who observed that in some homes, sexual matters are cloaked with secrecy and discussions of sexual concerns are infrequent or absent entirely.  Many adolescents are simply uncomfortable discussing their sexuality and most of them do not receive any information about reproduction or contraception from their parents.  But, the likelihood that adolescents will talk to their parents depends on the degree of the relationship existing between then (Papini, Farmer, Clark& Snell; 1998) as well as their levels of self esteem and individuation. This implies that young adolescents will not bring their sexual concerns to their parents because they are still in the early stages of the process of individuation and thus resorted to other sources.  This confirmed that sex education can serve as substitute to adult entertainment at 5% level of significance and with  X2 tab  (9.49) < than  X2 cal  (72.02) as indicated in Table 5.

Religion and nudity

There is no law that approves pornography in Nigeria and nudity is still a foreign practice or custom in the cultural context of Nigeria in general.  But, some cultural rites permit exposure of some part of the body during festival especially but not absolute nudity as being encouraged by today’s media under watchful e yes of religious bodies.  Nudity permissiveness is becoming a serious concern to well-meaning moralists and dedicated disciplined individuals especially because of the way bodies are being revealed sanctioned by the free use of some body-exposed dressings in public places and even at the sacred places like churches or religious centres.

The silent posture of the church and the presence of scanty dressing in churches depict a vagrant approval of the dressing.  In the FGD, some participants believed that pornographic material violates the commandment of God that says: “Thou shalt not . . . commit adultery . . . nor do anything like unto it” (Deut 5:18; Exo 20:14) and it is believed that such can lead to other serious sins. Members of the Church should therefore avoid pornography in any form and should oppose its production, distribution, and use.

Conclusion and recommendations

This study confirmed that most parents do not usually engage their children in sex education and neither do the children feel free to discuss sexually- related issues with their parents, a major gap in the families that adolescents are striving hard to fill through any available source and at all costs.  Amongst the fascinating observations revealed in this study is that many adolescents feel at ease watching television with their parents around them but they are not always comfortable surfing the internet with their parents or adult around.  Privacy is in most cases extremely limited in TV watching whereas adolescent would prefer exploring the privacy inherent in internet (cyber-café for example) and watch whatever he / she wants.

Pornography is the most common form of adult entertainment that adolescents are exposed to in Nigeria and erotic dancing, prostitution, sex shows and stripping were not well loved. While the most common medium through which they access this is television, more males view adult entertainment than females.  Many adolescents can comfortably watch TV with their parents, while they would not want to watch other media while older adult or parents are around.  Several agreed that what they watch can encourage them to have sexual experience and relationship.  But while the study confirmed that adult entertainment could have adverse effect on adolescent sexual behaviour, adequate sex education would serve as a substitute to adult entertainment in the sex lives of adolescents.

The mass media and technological advancement of the 21st century has played a major role in the spread of adult entertainment as adolescents can obtain easily, such information from the internet and by watching movies on television.  Most adolescents in Nigerian are greatly exposed to adult entertainment.  It is but evident that lack of adequate sex education in homes by parents / guardians and at schools by teachers is largely responsible for the desperate adventure on the part of the adolescent to “satisfy the missing link at all cost”. This unmet need at home necessitates the scrambling for it from other sources, which in most cases, is usually satisfied by peers, with its subsequent misdemeanors. Where cultivation theory applies: adoption of expressed values and beliefs follow and behaviour becomes altered.  This will push them into the experimentation of what they have been exposed to, in the form of sexual relations.

It is believed, based on the findings in this study, that adolescents’ sexuality can be re-molded to generated sustainable, responsible, well-informed and well-equipped future generation of mature adults and successful parents.   The findings here are meant to direct stakeholders’ action in overhauling (where necessary) the wobbling image of a society that has virtually lost its moral values of excellent behaviour in the area of sexuality.  Therefore it is on this the paper submit that the high rate of adolescent indulgence in adult entertainment could be curbed by provision of adequate sex education for adolescents in normal open settings like schools, seminars, religious houses, rather than the current clandestine campaigning syndrome.  Sexuality programme / courses should be developed and integrated into the curriculum of academic institutions especially at secondary and tertiary levels. A high degree of Parent-Child Closeness (PCC) should be made a major priority in every home because this ultimately translates to the child feeling free to discuss sensitive matters, even those involving sexuality, with the parents.  Restrictions should also be placed on the mass media by the government; scrutinizing and stiff censorship should be placed on media coverage of sexuality matters.  The mass media should then be made to provide alternative forms of entertainment for adolescents, which would educate them academically in matters concerning their age.

References

Blumer and Hauser. 1933. was one of a group sponsored by the Payne

Brown, J. D. 1993: Theoretical overview. In B. S. Greenberg, J. D. Brown, & N. L. Buerkel-Rothfuss(Eds.),Media, sex and the adolescent (pp. 19-25). Cresskill, NJ:Hampton Press.

Brown, J. D., & Steele, J. R. 1995. Sex and the mass media (Report No. 1093). Menlo Park, CA: Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.

Buerkel-Rothfuss, N. L., Strouse, J. S., Pettey, G., & Shatzer, M. 1993.  Adolescents’ and young adults’ exposure to sexually oriented and sexually explicit media. In B. S. Greenberg, J. D. Brown, & N. L. Buerkel-Rothfuss (Eds.), Media, sex and the adolescent (pp. 99-112). Cresskill, NJ: Hampton Press. 

Collins, Rebecca L., Marc N. Elliott, Sandra H. Berry, David E. Kanouse, Dale Kunkel, Sarah B. Hunter, and Angela Miu. 2004. “Watching Sex on Television Predicts Adolescent Initiation of Sexual Behavior,” Pediatrics, Vol. 114, No. 3, September 2004.

Cyril Burt. 1925.  The Young Delinquent p. 137.

Downs, Donald A. 2008. “Pornography.” Microsoft® Student 2008 [DVD]. Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation, 2007.

Gerbner, G., Yucky, L., Morgan, M., & Signori Elli, N. 1986. Living with television: the dynamics of the cultivation process. In J. Bryant & D. Zillerman (Eds.), Perspectives in media effects (pp.17-40). Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum.

Glueck, E.  1950. Unraveling Juvenile Delinquency (1950), p. 161.

Grube, J. W., & Wallack, L. 1994. Television beer advertising and drinking knowledge, beliefs, and intentions among schoolchildren. American Journal of Public Health, 84, 254-259.

Himmelweit et al. 1958.  Television and the Child (1958), pp. 11-12.In Mass Communications, ed. Wilbur ,Schramm (1949), pp. 389, 396-7.

IzIbid., at p. 9.

Lazarsfeld and Kendall. 1960. “The Communications Behavior of the Average American,” New York Times, Feb. 12, 1960, p. 43, col. 3.

Matthews A. Ojo. 2007. Religion and Sexuality: Individuality, Choice and Sexual Rights in Nigerian Christianity. Humanity Sexuality in Africa beyond Reproduction. Edited by  Eleanor Maticka-Tyndale, Richmond Tiemoko and Paulina Makinwa-Adebusoye.  Action Health Incorporated. Fanele Jacana Media (Pty) Ltd.

Tiemoko Richmond and Oku-Egbas Arit. 2006. Monitoring Media Coverage of Sexuality: An Introduction. Sexuality In Media, Emerging Issues in Africa. 2005 Edition. Published by Africa Regional Sexuality Resource Centre, ARSRC 2006. ISBN: 978-37944-1-8 P6-10

Walsh-Childers, K., & Brown, J. D. 1993. Adolescents’ acceptance of sex-role stereotypes and television viewing. In B. S. Greenberg, J. D. Brown, & N. L. Buerkel-Rothfuss (Eds.), Media, sex and the adolescent (pp. 117-133). Cresskill, NJ: Hampton Press.

Walsh-Childers, K., & Brown, J. D. 1993. Adolescents’ Acceptance off Sex-Role Stereotypes and Television Viewing. In B. S. Greenberg, J. D. Brown, & N. L. Buerkel-Rothfuss (Eds.), Media, sex and the adolescent (pp. 117-133). Cresskill, NJ: Hampton Press.

Ward, L. M., & Rivadeneyra, R. 1999. Contributions of entertainment television to adolescents’ sexual attitudes and expectations: The role of viewing amount versus viewer involvement. Journal of Sex Research, 36(3), 237-249.

William Healy and Augusta Bronner. 1936. New Light on Delinquency p. 72.

Wolfe and Fiske, “The Children Tell about Comics,” Communications Research,

PPENDIX

Table 1: Demographic characteristics of respondents

Variables

Frequency

Percent

Sex

Male

51

44.7

Female

63

55.3

Total

114

100.0

Age group

12- 16

6

5.3

17- 21

75

65.8

22- 24

33

28.9

Total

114

100.0

Living status of parents

Both living together

93

81.6

Separated

6

5.3

Divorced

1

.9

Single

14

12.3

Total

114

100.0

Closeness to parents

Very close

36

31.6

Close

55

48.2

Undecided

10

8.8

Quite distant

10

8.8

Very distant

3

2.6

Total

114

100.0

Regularity of discussion  of sexual matters with Parents

Very frequently

8

7.0

Frequently

18

15.8

Often

16

14.0

Less frequently

40

35.1

Never

32

28.1

Total

114

100.0

Sensitive discussion with Parents

Very frequent

17

14.9

Not at all

36

31.6

Sometimes

28

24.6

Rarely

33

28.9

Total

114

100.0

Respondent in relationship

In relationship

48

42.1

Not In relationship

48

42.1

Broken relationship

18

15.8

Total

114

100.0

Table 2: Adolescents and medium of adult entertainment

Parent’s awareness of  child’s Relationship

Number

Percentage

Yes

40

35.1

No

33

28.9

Never been in a relationship

41

36.0

Hours of watching television / cinema

2- 5 hrs

66

57.9

6- 8 hrs

33

28.9

9- 12 hrs

9

7.9

13 hrs & above

6

5.3

Surfing Internet

2- 5 hrs

96

84.2

6- 8 hrs

9

7.9

9- 12 hrs

6

5.3

13 hrs & above

3

2.6

Watching TV with Parent / Elderly

Yes

58

50.9

No

56

49.1

Surf Internet with Adult Around

Yes

44

38.6

No

70

61.4

Exposure to sex shows

Frequency

Percent

Yes (Exposed)

39

34.2

Not Exposed

75

65.8

Exposure to erotic materials

Frequency

Percent

Yes

50

43.9

No

64

56.1

Exposure to stripping

Frequency

Percent

Yes

38

33.3

No

76

66.7

Contact with sex workers

Yes

13

11.4

No

101

88.6

Sex inclusion in Sermon / Teaching in Churches

Ever Heard

35

30.7

Never Heard it

79

69.3

Parent’s Religion

Christianity

114

100.0

Table 3: Exposure to adult entertainment and sexual behaviour

Exposure to Pornography

Exposed

Not Exposed

Total

Medium

Yes

%

No

%

TV

85

 74.6

29

25.4

114

Video

74

 64.9

40

35.1

114

Cinema

14

 12.3

100

87.7

114

Print media magazine

46

 40.4

68

59.6

114

Radio

10

 8.8

104

91.2

114

Internet

40

 35.1

74

64.9

114

Club Houses

27

 23.7

87

76.3

114

Exposed

Not Exposed

Sexual behaviour

Yes

%

No

%

Total

Ever experienced intercourse

40

 48.8

42

51.2

82

Never experienced intercourse

10

 31.3

22

68.8

32

Have intercourse very frequently

8

 50.0

8

50.0

16

Have intercourse frequently

12

 46.2

14

53.8

26

Have intercourse less often

20

 50.0

20

50.0

40

Exposure by Sex

Male

41

80.4

10

19.6

51

Female

26

41.3

37

58.7

63

Tables 4: Adolescents’ opinion about adult entertainment

Issues

Strongly agree

Agree

Undecided

Disagree

Strongly disagree

Total

It encourage drive for sex

52

(45.6%)

32 (28.1)

1

(0.9%)

20 (17.5%)

9

 (2.9)

114

Adolescents are greatly exposed to it

82

 (71.9%)

29 (25.4%)

0

1

(0.9%)

2

 (1.8%)

114

Parent’s life style induces Adult Entertainment

30

 (26.3%)

41 (36.0%)

17

 (14.9%)

19 (16.7%)

7

 (6.1)

114

Formal sex education is a substitute

51

(44.7%)

37 (32.5%)

13

 (11.4%)

11 (9.6%)

2

(1.8%)

114

It has negative effect of adolescent’s sexuality

61

 (53.5%)

31 (27.2%)

13

(11.4%)

5

 (4.4%)

4

(3.5%)

114

Table 5: Adult entertainment, style of parenting and sex education effect on Adolescents Sexuality

Adult entertainment has a negative effect on Adolescent Sexuality

 Opinion

Observed    (oi)

Expected    (ei)

Residual

(oi – ei)

(oi – ei)2

(oi – ei)2/ ei

Strongly agree

61

22.8

38.2

1459.24

64.00

Agree

31

22.8

8.2

67.24

2.95

Undecided

13

22.8

-9.8

96.04

4.21

Disagree

5

22.8

-17.8

316.84

13.90

Strongly disagree

4

22.8

-18.8

353.44

15.50

Total

114

100.56

Style of parenting in Nigeria is responsible for indulgence in Adult Entertainment

Opinion

Observed    (oi)

Expected    (ei)

Residual

(oi – ei)

(oi – ei)2

(oi – ei)2/ ei

Strongly agree

30

22.8

7.2

51.84

2.27

Agree

41

22.8

18.2

331.24

14.53

Undecided

19

22.8

-3.8

14.44

0.63

Disagree

17

22.8

-5.8

33.64

1.48

Strongly disagree

7

22.8

-15.8

249.64

10.95

Total

114

29.86

Sex education will reduce spread of Adult entertainment amongst adolescents

 Opinion

Observed   (oi)

Expected   (ei)

Residual

(oi – ei)

(oi – ei)2

(oi – ei)2/ ei

Strongly agree

51

22.8

28.2

795.24

34.88

Agree

37

22.8

14.2

201.64

8.84

Undecided

13

22.8

-9.8

96.04

4.21

Disagree

11

22.8

-11.8

139.24

6.11

Strongly disagree

2

22.8

-20.8

432.64

18.98

Total

114

72.02

#10 – PLOT EARLY. The most well loved corporate entertainers book up very quickly for well loved dates. During the corporate holiday party season (Nov-Jan), entertainers can start to book up over a year in advance. Avoid disappointment and start looking for entertainment as soon as you know the date of your corporate event.

#9 – KNOW WHAT YOU WANT (AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, WHAT YOUR AUDIENCE WANTS). You can make your search for an entertainer simpler if you have an thought of the type of entertainment that would work well for your group. Well loved corporate entertainment includes:

COMEDY – Comedy acts can be a fantastic way to get your group laughing together. Comedy acts don’t have to be just stand-up comedians. Many corporate comedy acts blend magic, juggling, or other variety performances into their comedy show. This variety helps insure that there is something for everyone in the performance.

No matter what type of comedy act your choose, be sure that the comedy is going to be appropriate for your group. Many comedians have different thoughts on what “clean comedy” is, so be sure to question for a demo video to preview the show (see #1 below!)

MUSIC – Many headline singers and bands are available for corporate events.

MAGIC – There are many different styles of corporate magicians and corporate magic shows. Some magicians offer strolling magic (going table to table at your event), some perform large illusion show with special effects and a cast of dancers, others specialize in comedy magic that gets your audience laughing in involved. Whatever styles of corporate entertainment you are looking for, be sure to find a magician who specializes in only that style. There are magicians you will tell you that they do everything – illusions, comedy, strolling, but that is because they are not proficient at any specific style, so all their shows are usually only mediocre. For the best possible show, hire a professional corporate magician who specializes in one style of magic. These performers will be the best in their field in illusion, comedy, or sleight-of-hand because that is all they do.

HYPNOSIS – Hypnotists can be fantastic for the right group. Hypnotist shows are very interactive and require a very outgoing and uninhibited group to really be successful.

#8 – BOOK DIRECTLY WITH THE ENTERTAINER TO SAVE MONEY AND HEADACHES. If you book your corporate entertainment directly through the entertainer, you will save money on entertainment. Most corporate entertainment agencies add an additional 15-35% to an entertainer’s fee. By booking a corporate entertainer direct, you also have the convenience of being able to talk with the entertainer (or their office staff) about any questions or concerns. Most corporate entertainment agencies will not let you talk with the entertainer until the day of the show. By booking direct, you can be guaranteed that there are no miscommunications about the performance. You can find direct contact information for entertainers by doing an internet search for “corporate entertainers”, “california comedian”, etc.

#7 – PLOT A REALISTIC BUDGET. The ancient adage, “you get what you pay for”, applies to entertainment as well. The entertainment is not a place to save a few dollars. You would never cut corners on the food you would feed your guests, and should never cut corners on the entertainment. Terrible entertainment can ruin an event just as quickly as terrible food. You are not going to be able to get a EXCELLENT quality corporate entertainer to do a show for 0. Fees for a TOP QUALITY, professional corporate entertainer will range from 00 – 0,000 + depending on the size of the show and the performer’s experience and reputation.

#6 – KNOW THE PERFORMER’S EXPERIENCE. You want a corporate entertainer who primarily entertainers for corporate audiences. Don’t be worried to question questions… Is the performer a full-time entertainer? Have they performed at events like yours in the past? Do they have letters of recommendation and reviews from past clients for you to read?

#5 – IF YOU HAVE A SPECIAL REQUEST….QUESTION! Many entertainers are pleased to customize part of their performance for your event. If you have a special request in mind, be sure to discuss this with the performer at the time of booking.

#4 – DISCUSS SET-UP REQUIREMENTS BEFORE BOOKING. Set-up need for entertainers vary greatly. Some can perform in the corner of a room with just a microphone, some need a minimum stage area and special sound and lighting equipment. Be sure that your venue will be able to meet your entertainer’s set-up needs prior to booking.

#3 – LEAVE YOUR GUESTS WANTING MORE. 90 minutes of entertainment may sound like a fantastic thought when you are plotting your corporate event, but most audiences do not want to sit through a 90 minute show. A longer show does NOT equal better show. Even the TOP comedians and entertainers in the WORLD (Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, etc) only perform 60-75 minute shows. Professional entertainers and corporate event planners agree that a excellent length for most corporate live entertainment is 35-50 minutes. It is always better to leave your audience excited and wanting more…rather than having them get tired and start looking at the watch.

#2- KNOW WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE FEE. There are travel expenses associated with hiring national entertainers for your corporate party. Many entertainers include the travel expenses into their performance fee and for some travel will be an additional expense. Be sure to know what is included in the fee you are quoted to avoid any unexpected (and potentially expensive!) surprises.

#1 – MOST IMPORTANTLY – ALWAYS QUESTION TO SEE A DEMO VIDEO. A demo video is the only way you can truly judge whether a corporate entertainer will be right for your company party. The demo video should be small highlights of the segments of an entertainer’s show. The video should be filmed in front of a live audience so you can see how a real audience reacts to the show. If an entertainer’s video is nothing but split-second clips and flashy graphics set to music, then they are probably trying to cover for an inadequate performance – or worse, it could mean that they have NEVER even performed in front of a real audience.

RECOMMENDED CORPORATE ENTERTAINERS:

http://www.chrislinn.com – AMERICA’S MAGICAL FUNNYMAN, Chris Linn has a high-energy show that is a blend of CLEAN comedy, magic, and audience interaction. Named a “best bet” for corporate entertainment by MSNBC.

http://www.jimoakley.com – Jim Oakley is a comedy juggler who regularly opens for national acts. He has a classic vaudeville-style show.

http://www.jimgaffigan.com – Jim is a nationally recognized stand-up comedian who is known for his clean comedy. He regularly appears on Conan O’Brien and has made numerous appearances on Comedy Central.

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