Media is targeting youth and affecting identity construction. In lecture, it was discussed that suicide is a "cool" topic. It is being incorporated into television without actually dealing with the real psychological background. It was then mentioned that young children understand the meaning of the term "suicide" and see it as an option.
I found this lecture to be rather disturbing. I do not agree with the "angle" of this lecture. It was mentioned that children and youth have a "morbid obsession with death". Nobody I grew up with had such a fascination. It is really important that inaccurate generalizations are not made.
Examples mentioned in class:
Bad Religion-Social Suicide (lyrics) - Video on Youtube
"Girl, 13, hangs herself after becoming obsessed with Emo "
suicide cult" - In the news
The Virgin Suicides - Movie Trailer
Romeo and Juliet
suicidegirls.com - Makes suicide "sexy"
What should we do?
Suicide is an alienation from the self. Teachers need to help students develop self-esteem. A feeling of community must be fostered. Each individual needs to feel connected. As teachers we need to be positive and enriching role models. I was unaware of the vast marketing of suicide in the media. It is important to ensure that parents are aware of the content children are being exposed to when surfing the net and watching television. Should a parent or teacher determine that a child is being exposed to these images, a very frank discussion would need to take place. It is empowering to critically dissect all media messages. At the same time, I think suicide is a very serious and controversial topic to bring in the elementary school classroom. I would avoid doing so unless a member of the administration, a school psychologist or a parent requested it.
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