‘13 Reasons Why’ opens the door to crucial dialogue with teens
FAMILY LIFE
Q: With all the noise about “13 Reasons Why,” I asked my teenaged daughter what she thought of the show. It surprised me to learn how many of her friends deal with bullying. What’s your take on the show?
A: “13 Reasons Why” is a Netflix original series depicting the story of a girl who not only takes her life, but leaves 13 cassette tapes for people she identifies as having contributed to her decision. The show is told through her and follows the unfolding of the tapes as they affect her friends.
The show is a runaway hit with teenagers. But adults are worried about the graphic nature portraying issues of rape, drug abuse, bullying and suicide. They are concerned that it may prompt copycat behaviour.
Some adults/professionals suggest the series glorifies suicide and the after death revenge one may seek to obtain without realizing that they will not be around to know the actual outcome. Others say that it minimizes the impact of suicide on loved ones. Still others believe it provides a teachable moment and that parents can view the series with their teen to prompt discussion.
There are school boards and schools that have sent home warning letters to parents about the series. Some even prohibit students from talking about the show at school.
Whatever one’s argument for or against the series, one thing is for sure: it’s capturing the attention of young persons and adults alike. And it’s forcing a dialogue that looks more intensely at the private lives of teens through their eyes.
Bottom line, this is a commercial success. Whether one believes it accurately portrays teen life or glorifies suicide it has, nonetheless, opened a portal for discussion.
It has quickly become part of popular teen culture and I would advise parents to watch the series with or without their teen. Use it as a vehicle to ask your teen about life as they experience it. Sit back and listen. Just listen.
If a concern is raised in your mind about your teen’s well-being, let them know you care about and love them. Seek to work issues out collaboratively.
If you are quite worried about a particular risk, seek professional help.
If you learn about an imminent risk, do not wait. Bring it to a professional’s attention.
This show is letting the genie out of the bottle. Mental health concerns are being talked about like never before. That’s a good thing.