A study using a cross-sectional survey technique compared the uses of American television by 276 native American and 83 nonnative American children. Uses of American television were defined in terms of motivation for television viewing, preference for television programs, patterns of exposure to television, identification with television characters, and perceived reality of television characters and events. Bivariate statistical techniques were used to analyze the data. Results showed that compared to native American Children, non-native American children (1) used American television more for learning about themselves and others as well as for social interaction purposes, (2) showed more interested in watching television programs in general and educational and adventure programs in particular, (3) identified more frequently with television characters, and (4) expressed stronger belief in television characters and events. References and data tables are appended. (HOD)