Should “13 Reasons Why” Be Shown to School/College Children and Their Parents?

When maybesomething as crucial as mental health is being discussed on a platform like "13 Reasons Why," it becomes imperative to consider not just the content but also the responsibility that comes with its presentation. This television series, which delves into the issues faced by high school and college students, raises a pertinent question: should it be shown to youth and their parents?

The Impressive but Unreliable Depiction of Adolescents’ Struggles

While "13 Reasons Why" does capture many of the challenges that adolescents must navigate, such as bullying, peer pressure, and the struggle for identity, it approaches these issues in a way that can be misleading and potentially harmful. The series often highlights the darker aspects of adolescent experiences, which can be quite distressing. Moreover, the show portrays extreme and often harmful methods for dealing with these issues, which can plant dangerous seeds in the minds of its younger viewers.

The Impressionable Nature of Adolescent Minds

During adolescence, the mind is highly impressionable. Young people are at a stage where their beliefs and behaviors are still being shaped. Exposure to the narrative of "13 Reasons Why" can lead to the internalization of harmful ideas. For instance, the character Hannah Baker takes a tragic and ultimately self-destructive path. If young viewers see and relate to her actions, they may unknowingly adopt similar behaviors, despite being told not to emulate her.

Reverse Psychology and Its Impact

The concept of reverse psychology can be particularly potent when dealing with young people. When they are explicitly told not to follow in someone's footsteps, especially if that someone is a relatable character, it can have the opposite effect. This is because the very act of telling someone not to do something can make them want to do it more. In the context of "13 Reasons Why," once young viewers are made aware of the dangers of certain behaviors through the series, they may think 'Why not give it a try, if others do it?'

Why the Media Matters in Adolescents' Development

The media can significantly impact the way young people think and behave, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like mental health and self-harm. While "13 Reasons Why" has been praised for its honesty and addressing taboo topics, it also carries a risk. The graphic and emotive scenes can be too intense for young minds that are still developing the ability to process such content without emotional upheaval.

Alternatives and Better Approaches

Instead of exposing young viewers to potentially harmful content like "13 Reasons Why," there are better ways to address the issues faced by adolescents. Educational programs, supportive counseling, and open dialogues between parents and children are far more effective. Parents can use books, documentaries, and other educational tools to guide their children through difficult topics, providing them with the tools they need to handle their own mental health concerns in a constructive and healthy way.

In conclusion, while "13 Reasons Why" can be a valuable tool for adults to become more aware of the challenges faced by adolescents, it is not advisable to show it to young viewers without proper context and preparation. The responsibility lies with parents to ensure that any potentially harmful content is viewed critically, and that they provide support and guidance to their children. Until more appropriate and supportive media is available, it's better to keep our fingers crossed and avoid unnecessary risks.