Many people worry about the effects of television on family life in the United States. In the average home, the TV is on more than six hours a day. But do people always keep their mind on the programs? And do people who watch TV really spend less time on other free-time activities?

A study by some New York researchers found out that watching TV is the most popular free-time activity in the United States. More than 70% of Americans say that they watch TV every day, or almost every day. The second most popular activity is reading the newspaper. Listening to music at home is third. Talking on the phone to friends and relatives is fourth. Exercising or jogging is fifth.

Surprisingly, television does not seem to take time away from free-time activities at home. Six out of ten people said that when the TV is on, they seldom pay attention to it. During a typical television program, people may eat dinner, do housework, read a newspaper or magazine, or talk or read to their children. The TV becomes 'background music'.

The researchers learned that in some ways Americans are very traditional. Teenagers and single people may be interested in activities and excitement outside the home. However, eight out of ten Americans like to spend their free time at home with family members and friends.

1. What do many people in the United States worry about?

2. How much time is the TV on a day in the average home?

3. According to the research, what is the most popular leisure activity in America?

4. What did the researchers learn?