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Channel 4 viewers slam "irresponsible" documentary

Photo credit: Channel 4
Photo credit: Channel 4

From Digital Spy

After airing on Channel 4 yesterday (August 20), documentary Train Your Baby Like a Dog has invited criticism from many Twitter users.

The show sees psychologist and animal trainer Jo-Rosie Haffenden applying particular techniques to the development of babies (her own son, too), including a treat reward system, clickers and the time-old command of "SIT!".

Jo-Rosie reflected: "If everyone parented the way we train dogs, we would end up with more confident, compassionate and curious human beings."

Photo credit: Channel 4
Photo credit: Channel 4

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In terms of backlash, Train Your Baby Like a Dog has completely divided fans, with impassioned responses coming from both sides of the argument. A petition to cancel the show has already garnered over 27,000 signatures.

One viewer tweeted: "I'm seriously concerned how close #trainyourbabylikeadog is to abuse. Appalling failure. Drs and MBE's and professional who know what they are talking about have been trying to tell you for days how disgusting this is. @Channel4 is a joke. [sic]".

Another shared: "Our young children need secure attachments, adults to co-regulate with them, positive interactions, empathy, compassion and nurture. Serious questions to be asked around the ethics of this programme. Where is the respect for our bairns? #trainyourbabylikeadog [sic]".

Meanwhile, a third Twitter fan digested the programme's content a little differently, noting: "The principles of psychology are surely the same in intelligent animals? Positive reinforcement, boundaries and consequences – are people just offended to recognise we are animals too?"

"I've always compared my kids to puppies in that they need lots of cuddles, love & attention, clear boundaries, discipline, regular meals & bedtimes, lots of fresh air & exercise. It works" said another.

Check out more of the Twitter action below.

Digital Spy has reached out to Channel 4 for comment.

Train Your Baby Like a Dog aired on Channel 4.


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