'Vulnerable' kids shouldn't watch '13 Reasons Why,' school says
FISHERS, Ind. — An Indiana school district is advising parents not to let "vulnerable" students watch Netflix series "13 Reasons Why."
Hamilton Southeastern Schools sent an email to parents with a warning from the National Association of School Psychologists that for some students, the show could "romanticize" suicide, or suicide for revenge, the association release said.
"They may easily identify with the experiences portrayed and recognize both the intentional and unintentional effects on the central character," it reads. "Unfortunately, adult characters in the show, including the second school counselor ... do not inspire a sense of trust or ability to help."
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The show, based on a novel, follows a group of high school students after their classmate, Hannah Baker, takes her own life. She left behind 13 tapes, each detailing one reason she killed herself, and the roles her classmates played. The show also tackles bullying, rape and drunken driving.
Hamilton Southeastern Schools said it sent the email because of the show's popularity among students. District spokeswoman Emily Abbotts said it was not in response to any specific situation, or concerns from parents.
“Our most vulnerable students have a hard time seeing the difference between fact and fiction," Assistant Superintendent Mike Beresford told board members during an April 26 meeting.
Other area schools, including Noblesville and Lebanon Community Schools, have alerted parents to the show.
"We are concerned that many parents may not even be aware that their child is viewing this extremely emotional series, which is rated MA for mature audiences," said Lebanon superintendent Robert Taylor in his email to parents.
Indiana has one of the highest teen suicide rates in the United States. Indiana ranked the third highest of 30 states cited by the Kids Count in Indiana Data Book when it came to the percentage of high school students (19.8 percent) who have contemplated suicide and second (17 percent) for those who have made a plan. The state ranked 10th when it came to those who made a suicide attempt.
In 2015, 55 minors in Indiana committed suicide, compared with 52 the year before.
The series, which was released March 31, has been criticized for its graphic content. The Suicide Awareness Voices of Education, a U.S. nonprofit suicide prevention group, said the show could do "more harm than any good," ABC News reported earlier this month.
But the school psychologist association also acknowledges the show can start important conversations. They recommend parents watch it with their children, and talk about it.
"It can be appreciated as an opportunity to better understand young people’s experiences, thoughts, and feelings," the release states. "Children and youth who view this series will need supportive adults to process it. Take this opportunity to both prevent the risk of harm and identify ongoing social and behavior problems in the school community that may need to be addressed."
Call IndyStar reporter Emma Kate Fittes at (317) 444-6129. Follow her on Twitter: @IndyEmmaKate.
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