European models of the age rating of audio-visual content: keys to their adaptation to the digital consumption of children’s audiences

Abstract

The digital media ecosystem has become established as the dominant  reference for entertainment. Its exponential supply is immediately, everywhere, and continuously accessible through connected devices. This has diminished the effect of guidance systems on the suitability or unsuitability of content for children and adolescents. This research review organises and systematises the criteria and indicators of age rating models in television, cinema, video streaming platforms and video games applied in Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Portugal, six European countries with similar socio-cultural environments and market structures. The study finds notable differences in the definition and classification according to the media and territories: it also emphasises the need to redefine the semantic, aesthetic and technical bases on which to build a common model of recommendation compatible with all digital content, regardless of the medium or distribution technology; this is the only way to promote active consumption that fosters critical thinking and digital media education in children and young people.