Separating Films from Reality
The Impact of Films and Our Perceptions of Reality
As movies become more prevalent in our daily lives, so does the information we receive from the films. Many movies display unrealistic use of drugs including easily accessible illegal substances, harmless binge-drinking, and casual smoking.
No one is suggesting we ban movies entirely from our lives. We all agree that movies are fun and a great source of entertainment. But it’s also important to acknowledge the negative effects that movies may have on susceptible minds. Rather than ban movies from the lives of our children, we should ensure that the newest generation is properly educated on the reality of using drugs. Informed decisions are far better than ignorant decisions; if children are convinced that what they see in movies can be imitated in real life, their experiences with drugs may be detrimental to their health.
Movies like Heathers and Mean Girls have attempted to make a stance against the relation of popularity and drug use, but neither effectively delivers the intended message. We cannot expect movies to create safer and more realistic content for viewers. Movies are created for profit, and producers will not sacrifice that profit at the prospect that their content could negatively affect their viewers. Instead of relying on movies to change, we need to rely on children to be prepared. We need to educate viewers on the reality of cinematic experiences, or more accurately, the lack of reality of cinematic experiences.
It’s true that to a certain extent we can prevent children from watching content that they are not prepared to view. But children are curious, and with how easily accessible the internet is and how easy it is to sneak into a movie or secretly rent one on a mobile device, education is more effective than denial.
Ultimately, helping children separate the content they see in films from what actually occurs in reality could greatly influence their futures experiences with alcohol.
Supporting the Cause
Contact us at 812-477-9425
Charity Center Brandywine Dr Newburgh, Indiana 43530
Every Step is One Step Closer
We would greatly appreciate any and all forms of help to forward our movement. Shares, comments, and likes all help to spread the word and involve more people in the cause. Donations can be mailed or delivered in-person to the address above. We are currently accepting volunteers.
Volunteers can help out with campaign designs, and can even publish their own personal experiences on our website. Learn more about volunteering by visiting www.helpinformteens.com
