Fix Netflix: Why Teen Shows Need Better Pain Portrayals
Remember when Eleven gets those killer nosebleeds on “Stranger Things”? That’s just one of over 10 painful things teens are likely to see per hour in many shows on Netflix.
A new study dove into how pain is portrayed in popular series like “Sex Education” and “Enola Holmes,” and the results aren’t pretty.
https://journals.lww.com/pain/abstract/9900/the_sociocultural_context_of_adolescent_pain_.560.aspx
The Hero Problem
It turns out, boys get most of the dramatic pain moments. They’re hurt in action scenes, but tough it out like superheroes. Girls, meanwhile, are more likely to be shown reacting emotionally when someone ELSE is hurt.
Sound familiar?
Where’s the Real-World Pain?
Forget about cramps, pulled muscles, or that killer migraine — those barely get any screen time. Instead, it’s all about fights and over-the-top injuries.
This sends the message that unless your pain is basically a movie stunt, it doesn’t count.
Pain & Prejudice
The study also found that white characters were the ones most often shown suffering. People of color, when they did experience pain, were more likely to have it caused by another person.
This feeds into harmful stereotypes we need to ditch.
Sadly, most characters witnessing someone in pain offered jokes or straight-up mean comments instead of actual, y’know, empathy. Ouch!
Why This Isn’t Just a Bummer
- Media is Brain Food: What we constantly see shapes how we think. These stereotypes can mess with teens’ understanding of their own pain experiences and how others might react.
- Empathy Opportunity Missed: Shows could be teaching teens vital coping skills and how to support each other through tough times, including the pain we all deal with.
- Pain Isn’t a Punchline: When shows brush off everyday pain, it can make teens feel embarrassed or weak for seeking help when they really need it.
What The Researchers Want
Hey Netflix, Listen Up!
They’re not calling for censorship, but want platforms to be aware of these patterns and use their power to tell richer stories.
- Imagine This: Shows with teens going through tough treatments, dealing with chronic pain, or just being decent human beings when their friend is hurting. THAT’S the kind of content we deserve.
Next Binge-Watch Challenge
Next time you settle in for a Netflix marathon, keep an eye on the pain portrayals.
Are they realistic?
Are they reinforcing outdated ideas?
Shows can be entertaining AND smart. Let’s demand better!
If you enjoyed this read, let me know in the comments, and then this may also be for you