A Framework for Ascertaining Deception in Children's Advertising

Criteria are explained for judging deceptive or unfair advertising, especially when directed toward children. A model is presented for ascertaining deception in children's advertising, including the following steps: pre-examination of questioned advertisements, sample selection to obtain relevant and representative children, determine understanding level of children, measure appropriate responses, determine if deception exists, determine deception's impact, and make a final decision regarding continuation of the campaign or a cease and desist order with or without corrective advertising.