contentrating

Content rating is a labeling system used to indicate the suitability of media content for audiences of different ages. Ratings aim to help consumers, especially parents or guardians, make informed choices and to guide platforms, distributors, and regulators in applying appropriate restrictions or disclosures. Rating decisions consider elements such as violence, sexual content, nudity, language, drug use, and other potentially sensitive themes. The specific criteria and age bands vary by country and rating system.

Rating systems are applied across multiple media, including film, television, video games, online video platforms, and publishing. In film, many jurisdictions rely on boards or agencies such as the MPAA in the United States or the BBFC in the United Kingdom. In video games, common systems include the ESRB in North America, PEGI in Europe, and CERO in Japan. Online platforms may use internal rating schemes or adopt widely used industry standards, often enforcing age-restricted access or displaying content advisories.

The rating process can involve self-rating by content creators, independent rating boards, or platform-assisted reviews. Ratings may be reviewed or appealed, and some products are re-rated over time. In practice, ratings are typically advisory rather than legally binding, and enforcement varies by platform and jurisdiction. Automated content analysis may supplement human review, but subjectivity and cultural differences can influence outcomes.

Content rating supports parental controls, age-based access restrictions, and compliance with local regulations. It is one tool among several for managing exposure to potentially inappropriate material, and it does not guarantee universal suitability. See also content warnings and parental controls.