13 Reasons Why: Helpful or Hurtful?

*NO SPOILERS! :)

 .    Released in March 2017, "Thirteen Reasons Why" is a Netflix original series that is based on Jay Asher's book Thirteen Reasons. Touching on important topics; such as sexual assault, substance abuse, suicide, mental health, bullying/cyberbullying, and gun violence; seasons one and two have brought much controversy to the table. Some believe this show romanticizes suicide, while others believe this is a way to start a conversation about important issues. Regardless of the public opinion, this TV show has become an overnight success and has been nominated in 2018 by MTV Movie and TV Awards for Best Show.

 .    After enduring tragedy after tragedy, high school student Hannah Baker takes her own life, leaving behind 13 tapes to describe the reasons why she did it. The show follows Clay Jenson, Hannah's unofficial lover, as he listens to her audio diary and follows her journey. While he relives her tragedies, Clay connects with his high school peers who were also affiliated with Hannah. Season two focuses on Hannah's court case, as the Baker family seeks justice for their daughter. Going back in time, this season expands on Hannah's relationships, other than Clay, and fills in holes left by season 1.

     As mentioned before, this show romanticizes suicide. Season one shows graphic scenes of Hannah's suicide and rape while season two depicts explicit scenes encompassing violent and sexual abuse. According to vox.com, "Research suggests that after graphic depictions of suicide, suicide rates go up because of the phenomenon of suicide contagion." By showing such vulgar scenes, teens get the impression that suicide is, in fact, a valid option and is something that is okay to go through with. The romantic relationship between Clay and Hannah is emphasized throughout the series, demonstrating an unrealistic plot.

     Though all of these reasons are valid reasons, in my opinion, I feel "Thirteen Reasons Why" is a way to spark conversation. Yes, the scenes are graphic, the storyline is exaggerated, and the topics covered can be triggering to some. However, in reality, these issues are happening. Sexual assault, abusive relationships, and peer pressure are ideas that are very prevalent in our world today. The first priority of a TV show is to entertain, thus the storyline will have to be dramatized in order to keep viewers watching. This show aims to show all the negative side effects of suicide and is used to demonstrate how suicide is never an option. Yes, this show is not for everyone; yet, I feel like by talking about these issues and sparking a conversation, "Thirteen Reasons Why" is bringing awareness to topics that are otherwise uncomfortable to talk about.

Anti 13 reasons why:
https://www.vox.com/culture/2018/5/23/17380304/13-reasons-why-season-two-controversy

Pro 13 reasons why:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/tv/2018/05/15/13-reasons-why-netflix-season-2-suicide-controversy-me-too-movement/607953002/

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