Disney reconsidered: A lack of integrity

A decade ago, the Disney Channel was a huge influence on our upbringing. However, current Disney Channel programming lacks the positive role models and messages that the older shows included.

Opinion

When we were kids, Disney Channel characters were real and authentic. They acted like us and went through tough situations that we may have gone through. Yes, Hannah Montana was a secret pop star and Alex Russo could cast spells on people, but all of these shows had relatable aspects. For example, in Hannah Montana, Miley and her dad had emotional conversations about her deceased mother, which taught us that we shouldn’t be ashamed to open up to others.

And the life lessons didn’t stop there. The Russo family in Wizards of Waverly Place showed us the power of a supportive family. The friendly sibling rivalry between Zack and Cody was humorous and relatable, but when it came down to it, they were always there for each other. Similarly, Lizzie McGuire taught us how to be a good friend and what kinds of friends we deserve.

Today, the Disney Channel is headed in a downward spiral which can be seen in the messages portrayed in its shows, such as K.C Undercover. Not only do the parents on the show constantly ignore and disrespect the dorky, younger brother, Ernie, but clearly favor his bratty sister, the show’s main character. The characters of K.C. Undercover give children the impression that being disrespectful to your parents will result in praise. These are not the type of people we want children to look up to.

Even worse, they encourage viewers to conform. According to Disney Channel’s website, Liv’s biggest challenge in the show Liv and Maddie is “attempting to be normal” due to her famous abilities to sing, dance and act. On the other hand, Maddie is portrayed as a tomboy in the show who is constantly being encouraged by her Hollywood-star twin sister to dress better and socialize with boys more. The show reinforces traditional gender roles rather than encouraging children to embrace who they truly are.

The Disney Channel needs to focus on what it wants its viewers to learn from its shows. Whether through an educational lesson or a powerful message, the characters’ actions influence viewers’ behavior.

Granted, there’s always nostalgia involved when looking back on your childhood. But beyond that, it’s clear that today’s Disney Channel is not yesterday’s. Its lessons are just not full of the kind of integrity Disney once had.