The Impact of “13 Reasons Why” on Teen Suicide Rates

 

Title: The Impact of “13 Reasons Why” on Teen Suicide Rates: A Controversial Link

Introduction (approx. 100 words)

The television series “13 Reasons Why” sparked a nationwide conversation on teenage suicide upon its release. Controversial by nature, the show shed light on the dark realities of bullying, sexual assault, and mental health among adolescents. However, critics argued that the explicit portrayal of suicide could potentially have unintended consequences. This essay aims to explore the subjectivity surrounding the possible correlation between the release of “13 Reasons Why” and the subsequent increase in teen suicide rates. By examining available data and scholarly research, we can better understand the complexities of this issue and the need for responsible media portrayals.

Body (approx. 900 words)

1. The Importance of Media Influence on Teen Behaviors

The media plays a significant role in shaping societal attitudes and behaviors among vulnerable populations like teenagers. With the rise of digital platforms and streaming services, the power of television shows, movies, and other forms of media to influence audiences has become even more pronounced. Furthermore, when tackling sensitive topics like suicide, it becomes essential to strike a balance between creating awareness and inadvertently glamorizing or triggering harmful behaviors.

2. The Release of “13 Reasons Why” and Its Reception

“13 Reasons Why,” based on Jay Asher’s novel, centers around a teenage girl’s suicide and the reasons she gives for it through a series of cassette tapes. Its debut on Netflix in 2017 garnered immense attention, with viewers praising its harsh realism and others expressing concerns about its potential consequences. The explicit nature of the suicide scene and the show’s lack of appropriate mental health resources provided post-viewing served as focal points for criticism.

3. Claims of Increased Teen Suicide Rates Post-Release

While the connection between a television show and real-life suicide rates is complex, several studies and statistical analyses have examined the potential impact of “13 Reasons Why” on adolescent mental health. One such study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health suggested an increase in suicide rates among teenagers, particularly in vulnerable age groups, following the show’s release (Bridge et al., 2019). However, the causal relationship between the show and suicide rates is far from conclusive, as other factors beyond media influence may contribute to such entwined phenomena.

4. Limitations and Counterarguments

It is important to critically examine the limitations and counterarguments surrounding the alleged link between “13 Reasons Why” and increased teen suicide rates. Critics argue that attributing any increase in suicide rates solely to the show is an oversimplification of a complex issue. Correlation does not equal causation, and a multitude of factors, such as economic circumstances, access to mental health resources, and bullying, can independently influence suicide rates. Additionally, increased awareness due to media coverage and improved reporting methods may account for the rise in recorded suicides rather than direct imitation of the show’s plot.

5. Role of Media Guidelines and Recommendations

Recognizing the potential impact of media on vulnerable groups, organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) have formulated guidelines for responsible media portrayal of suicide. These guidelines emphasize avoiding explicit portrayal of suicide methods, presenting alternatives to suicide, and providing credible resources for help-seeking. While the creators of “13 Reasons Why” have made some attempts to include trigger warnings and resources, they have also made artistic choices that deviated from existing recommendations.

Conclusion (approx. 100 words)

The relationship between the release of “13 Reasons Why” and the subsequent increase in teen suicide rates is a complex and controversial topic. While some studies suggest a correlation, the issue is far from settled. Responsible media portrayal of mental health and suicide, backed by evidence-based guidelines, is crucial to reducing harm. The ongoing dialogue surrounding this topic underscores the need for further research and emphasizes the collective responsibility of the media industry, mental health organizations, and society as a whole to approach sensitive subjects with care and sensitivity.

Citations:

1. Bridge, J. A., Greenhouse, J. B., Ruch, D., Stevens, J., Ackerman, J., Sheftall, A. H., … & Kelleher, K. J. (2019). Association between the release of Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why and suicide rates in the United States: An interrupted time series analysis. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 58(8), 830-836.

2. World Health Organization. (2017). Preventing Suicide: A Resource for Media Professionals. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/mental_health/prevention/suicide/resource_media.pdf

3. Pirkis, J., Ftanou, M., Grdovic, S., Williamson, M. K., Machlin, A., Spittal, M. J., … & Robinson, J. (2019). The International Handbook of Suicide Prevention. Wiley-Blackwell.

4. Kposawa, A. J. (2003). Association between suicide and societal-level factors: A review. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 38(6), 229-237.

5. Niederkrotenthaler, T., Voracek, M., Herberth, A., Till, B., Strauss, M., Etzersdorfer, E., & Eisenwort, B. (2020). “13 Reasons Why” and youth suicide: Can we really blame the television show for teen suicide? International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(16), 6037.