Teen Thrillers: A Brutal Reality
The teenage years are a time of growth, exploration, and seeking out experiences, good and bad. Without guidance from parents and elders, adolescents are left to their own devices to learn from their environment, which often includes violent films and television. Unfortunately, teenage thrillers are a widely popular and valuable source of entertainment for countless teenagers around the world. It’s easy to understand why these films are so appealing – they’re filled with thrill, excitement, and suspense. But what parents, educators, and experts don’t realize is that by allowing teens to watch these films, we’re exposing them to a world of violence and brutality that can have long-term repercussions in their minds.
The violence depicted in teenage thrillers is often glorified and doesn’t have any moral lessons associated with it. Not only do these films normalize and even encourage behavior that goes against social norms, but watching them can lead to the desensitization of violence and the numbing of moral reasoning. It’s not uncommon for teens who watch these films to then expect similar levels of violence and excitement outside of the confines of the media. This can lead to a lack of respect for authority and an inability to think critically, both of which are terrible consequences of allowing teens unrestricted access to teenage thrillers.
Furthermore, regular exposure to these films can make it difficult for young people to discern right from wrong. The lack of consequences the protagonists often get away with can shift the idea of justice and reward wrong decisions. Without the proper guidance, social norms and principles become blurred and distorted. This can cause teens to have skewed ideas on acceptable behavior and give them a skewed sense of justice, detrimentally affecting their sense of morality.
The seductive nature of violence can strongly appeal to young viewers, but it’s important to understand that behavior learned through media isn’t acceptable in the real world. Not only can these types of films lead to lasting psychological damage, but they can encourage dangerous activities and behaviors.
The Negative Effects of Watching Teen Thrillers
In addition to desensitization, teen thrillers can also have real-life negative effects, such as increased anxiety and fear. These films often depict intense situations and moments of extreme terror, which can lead to feelings of fear and anxiety that can’t be turned off as soon as the movie ends. It’s important to be aware of the lasting effects these films can have on teens’ mental health, as they can linger long after the credits rolls.
Furthermore, teenage thrillers can trigger adolescents’ insecurities and self-doubts. Violent content can lead to an increased feeling of vulnerability, while themes of absent parents or loneliness can lead to a skewed sense of identity in teen viewers. These films can also encourage poor decision making, as protagonists often act without the guidance of an adult or expert, leading to senseless and dangerous decisions. Not to mention, the distorted and overly glamorized portrayals of relationships and love can lead to issues such as manipulation and addiction.
What Parents Should Know
It’s important for parents and guardians to be aware of the lasting effects teenage thrillers can have on their children and teens. It’s important to have a conversation with youthful viewers and explain the difference between what they see on screen and reality. Parents should be mindful of the messaging and themes these films portray and understand the implications it can have if left unchecked.
When it comes to teenage thrillers, it’s crucial to be informed and aware of the real life consequences these films can have. It’s crucial to set clear boundaries, provide alternative forms of media, and give teens the guidance and advice they need to understand the difference between the real world and what they see on screen.
What Teens Should Know
The teenage years are full of emotion and exploration, but it’s important for teens to be aware of how their choices can affect them. While teenage thrillers can be exciting and fun to watch, it’s important to keep in mind that the decisions and actions of the characters are often not realistic and can lead to dangerous decisions and activities.
Furthermore, teen viewers should be aware that the violence depicted in these films is often exaggerated and glamorized, and it’s important to remember that in real life there are always consequences for one’s decisions. As a result, teens should be educated on the real life implications of the decisions they make and be reminded that there are always potential risks and dangers associated with actions.
Alternatives to Teen Thrillers
While there are definite risks associated with excessive viewing of teenage thrillers, the good news is that there are plenty of enjoyable and safe alternatives. Educational films and documentaries can provide teens with an entertaining way to learn about different subjects and topics, while films and television shows focused on life experiences and hardships can help teens develop empathy and compassion for their peers. Additionally, films about friendships and relationships can help teens establish healthy relationships and foster a sense of community and belonging.
Perils of Excess Exposure
Parents, educators and experts agree that it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with teenage thrillers. The glorification of violence can give teens a skewed sense of reality and lead to the desensitization of violence, while the absence of moral lessons and societal boundaries can lead to a lack of respect for authority. Additionally, the themes of these films can make it difficult for young people to discern right from wrong and give them an unrealistic sense of justice.
Teens should also be aware of the lasting effects teenage thrillers can have on their mental health, including increased anxiety and fear. Not to mention, these films can encourage poor decision making, as protagonists often act without the guidance of an adult or expert, leading to senseless and dangerous decisions. It’s important for parents and guardians to be mindful of the lasting effects these films can have and provide advisement and guidance for teens.
Educating Adolescents & Limiting Access
When it comes to teenage thrillers, education is key. It’s important for teens to understand the implications of the behavior and action depicted in these films and how it can translate to their everyday lives. Teens should be taught how to discern between make-believe and reality and understand the consequences of their decisions. Not to mention, parents and guardians should make sure to limit teens’ exposure to these films and provide alternative forms of entertainment.
Examining Cultural Messages
In addition to providing guidance and advice, it’s important to examine the cultural messages these films provide. Teen movies often have implications on gender roles, expectations, and power dynamics, and it’s important to be aware of the messages they portray. It’s important to discuss these implications with teens and set healthy boundaries and expectations when it comes to discussing and engaging in social activities.
Promoting Mental Health Awareness
By not limiting teens’ access to teenage thrillers, we’re not only exposing them to possible dangers, but we’re also preventing them from understanding how violence is depicted in the media and how it can affect their daily lives. Additionally, these films can lead to lasting psychological damage, which only further prevents teens from understanding the implications of their actions. It’s crucial to ensure teen viewers are aware of the real world implications of the decisions they make by promoting mental health and wellness education.
Encouraging Critical Thinking
Finally, it’s important to encourage teens to think critically about their media consumption and gain insight into their own biases and perceptions. In addition to discussing the potential implications of teenage thrillers, it’s important to encourage teens to ask questions and challenge the media they consume. By teaching teens to look beyond the surface, they can gain a better understanding of their own values and beliefs and understand how the media can affect their daily lives and decision making.
