Åldersmärkning

Åldersmärkning, often translated as age rating or age classification, refers to a system used to inform consumers about the suitability of content for different age groups. These systems are typically applied to media such as films, video games, television programs, and sometimes websites or books. The primary purpose of age ratings is to help parents and guardians make informed decisions about what their children consume and to protect minors from exposure to potentially inappropriate material, such as violence, explicit language, sexual content, or drug use.

Different countries and regions have their own age rating boards and classification systems. Examples include the Motion Picture Association (MPA) ratings in the United States, the BBFC ratings in the United Kingdom, and the PEGI system for video games in Europe. The specific age thresholds and the criteria for assigning ratings can vary significantly between these systems. For instance, a film might receive a "PG" rating in one country, suggesting parental guidance is advised, while receiving a "12" rating in another, indicating it is not suitable for those under twelve.

The implementation of age ratings is often voluntary for producers, but mandatory for exhibition or distribution in many cases. While primarily aimed at protecting children, age ratings can also serve as a general guide for all consumers regarding the content and themes within a particular piece of media. Debates sometimes arise regarding the effectiveness and consistency of these rating systems, as well as concerns about censorship versus consumer freedom.