For decades, children have loved shows such as “Sesame Street.” However, upon further inspection, it seems as though “Sesame Street,” in particular, is full of adult content which may provide subliminal messages to children and contribute to problematic behavior down the road.

Psychologists seem to be inconclusive in this area. Some argue that there is not enough of a correlation to say whether a television show does affect children, but others support the notion that kids pick up on and imitate modeled negative behaviors.

Albert Bandura’s famous Bobo Doll experiment would be a perfect example of the influence negative behavior has on children. In Bandura’s experiment, some kids watched a video of an adult beating up the Bobo Doll, and when left alone with the doll, those kids repeated the aggressive behavior of the person in the video.

It is our belief that the actions of the “Sesame Street” characters have many undesirable undertones, and it is unfortunate that children may grow up believing such troublesome behavior is normal.

The first culprit is Snuffleupagus who is always dragging his feet and sneezing, which leads us to believe that he is high on drugs. His constant sniffling may be another indication that he is a cocaine user. If Snuffleupagus is truly sick, it would be more productive for the show to display him receiving medical attention and articulating his needs to professionals.

Big Bird is another plausible drug user. It is likely that his seemingly gigantic size is a side effect of using acid; his size is simply his own perception of himself. “Sesame Street” portrays the distorted reality of their world as an incredibly happy and safe place; why must this program distort reality in order to provide a positive atmosphere? It would be more productive if they showcased the wonders of the real world without the need for “trippy” exaggerations.

There is a possibility that Cookie Monster shows kids it is okay to be addicted to controlled substances. Cookie Monster himself cannot survive without cookies. While around cookies, he loses all control of himself and scarfs down the cookies and even the plate. In any case, he is showing children that it is okay to give pleasurable impulses, whether or not they are drug-related.

Additionally, Oscar the Grouch is not only rude to all the other characters, but he is also a hoarder. He prefers to be alone in his garbage-filled trashcan. Oscar professes his love for trash and unwillingness to part with any of his belongings acquired over the years. He demonstrates to kids that it is okay to hold onto everything, even molding and rotting food.

Lastly, Elmo is inappropriately affectionate. Elmo’s demands that kids “Give Elmo a kiss” are abnormal. We would be more willing to accept Elmo asking for a hug, rather than a kiss. For children, kissing is a practice reserved for family members, and it is disturbing that Elmo teaches them it is normal for just anyone to make this request.

Although it is probable that not all kids would follow the influence of these “Sesame Street” characters, there is still the chance that some might try to imitate the subliminal messages found in the show later on in life.