Chief Censor Offers Guidance Ahead of 13 Reasons Why

Chief Censor Offers Guidance to Parents Ahead of 13 Reasons Why Season Two

Challenging media: talking with young people about what they’re watching is the first in a set of new resources released today by the Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC).

The parent guide is aimed at parents with teens, to help them connect with and support their kids. The resource is accompanied by a video series featuring interviews with youth health advocate, Dr Sue Bagshaw who offers practical advice to parents.

The guide is available in hard copy and as a downloadable print-friendly resource on the OFLC website, alongside the videos.
“This resource recognises that it has never been easy to be the parent of a teen, but today it’s more complicated than ever. The guide aims to make some important - but potentially tricky - discussions as easy as they can be!” says Chief Censor, David Shanks.

The OFLC developed the new resources following the completion of their Young New Zealanders Viewing Sexual Violence research project.

“We know from our research that there is a disconnect – and it seems to be growing. Age classifications and warnings can help but only go so far – we need a new approach,” says David.

“Digital technology and smartphones have changed everything about how we consume media. It’s a huge social experiment. There are many positives, but we know from talking to teens and their parents that it can also be a struggle.

“Younger teens are often viewing content intended for mature audiences. They see things they wish they hadn’t. Parents don’t know what their children are watching, and aren’t sure what to do.

“We know that some shows that are hugely popular with teens, like 13 Reasons Why* for example, can deal with really serious issues such as rape and suicide. It can be hard to stop a teenager from watching a show such as this, but it’s often possible to watch it with them – or watch it yourself, and talk about it with them.

“We think everyone could do with some help in this space!”

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