What is wrong with “13 Reasons Why”? This question has sparked intense debate among viewers, educators, and mental health professionals since the release of the Netflix series in 2017. The series, based on Jay Asher’s novel of the same name, explores the tragic story of a high school student, Hannah Baker, who commits suicide and leaves behind a series of tape recordings detailing the 13 reasons why she decided to end her life. While the series aims to raise awareness about bullying, mental health, and the consequences of actions, it has been criticized for several flaws that can potentially do more harm than good.
One of the main concerns with “13 Reasons Why” is its portrayal of mental health issues. The series often depicts mental health problems in a sensationalized and unrealistic manner, which can lead to misinformed perceptions and potentially trigger individuals who are struggling with similar issues. For example, the portrayal of Hannah’s depression and anxiety can be seen as oversimplified and one-dimensional, which does not accurately reflect the complexity of these conditions.
Another issue is the series’ handling of the suicide itself. While it is important to address the topic of suicide and its consequences, “13 Reasons Why” presents the act in a way that may not be helpful for those who are contemplating self-harm. The graphic depiction of Hannah’s death and the subsequent focus on the aftermath can be disturbing and may contribute to copycat suicides. Experts argue that a more nuanced and less graphic portrayal of the suicide could have been more effective in conveying the seriousness of the issue without causing further harm.
Moreover, the series is criticized for its portrayal of bullying. While it does address the devastating impact of bullying, it sometimes presents it as a more prevalent and easily solvable problem than it actually is. This can create unrealistic expectations and potentially lead viewers to believe that bullying can be easily stopped, which is not the case in many real-life situations.
Lastly, “13 Reasons Why” has been criticized for its lack of diversity and representation. The show primarily focuses on white, middle-class characters, which does not accurately reflect the diversity of the real world. This can lead to a narrow perspective on the issues at hand and potentially exclude those who do not fit the mold of the show’s characters.
In conclusion, while “13 Reasons Why” aims to raise awareness about important issues such as bullying, mental health, and suicide, it is fraught with flaws that can potentially do more harm than good. The series’ sensationalized portrayal of these issues, combined with its graphic depiction of suicide and lack of diversity, raises concerns about its impact on viewers, particularly those who may be struggling with similar challenges. It is crucial for future adaptations and discussions on these topics to address these flaws and provide a more balanced and sensitive representation of the issues at hand.
