NPR November 13, 2009
From "Balloon Boy" Falcon Heene to Jon and Kate's eight, children in reality TV shows are often a ratings bonanza — but off camera, child advocates and others are trying to rewrite the script for reality TV amid concerns that youngsters are being exploited.      
"There's a pattern of abuse and exploitation of children in the entertainment industry," said Petersen, noting problems that can be traced all the way back to 1920s film star Jackie Coogan. "That's why we were so touched by the plight of Falcon Heene," better known by many as the Colorado balloon boy.

Child exploitation is often hotly debated but its parameters are not obscure. All children should have privacy in their daily lives and an opportunity to attend school, play and learn how to participate in age-appropriate chores. Publicly acknowledging a star athlete or student is different from turning the child's life into the Truman Show. Of course, child exploitation by the media to sell advertisements is'nt the child's fault; it is adults, parents and TV broadcasters who, in seeking personal gain, put the child up for show. Just as all roads lead to Rome, all selfishness leads us toward Self-building. Is Self-building a universal panacea? I encourage you to read my book, The Provocative Qur'an and discover for yourself.