Gainesville, Florida –  The American College of Pediatricians urges parents to immunize their adolescents against the increasingly toxic glorification of violence and sex in the media. The soon to be released film Fifty Shades of Grey is a prime example of a film in need of strong parental guidance.
Fifty Shades of Grey is based on the first novel in a trilogy by the same name. The plot focuses on the intimate relationship between a 28 year old mega-millionaire and a 22 year old college student. Central to their relationship, however, is dating and intimate partner violence including the normalization of sadomasochism. The association between exposure to violent and sexually explicit visual media and the increased likelihood of adolescents imitating, or otherwise acting out in unhealthful ways, is well documented. Since the judgment center of the adolescent brain is not fully formed until the mid-twenties, adolescents especially need parents to help them consume media with a critical eye, and to give them clear guidance repeatedly.
Regarding this film, Dr. Michelle Cretella, Vice President of the American College of Pediatricians stated, “All our children need to hear three things. First, that verbal, emotional, physical and sexual violence is never acceptable. Next, that sexual activity, as much as alcohol and other drugs, impairs judgment. And finally, that healthy relationships are characterized by warmth, open communication, respect, and mutuality.”
For more info go to the Recent Release column at www.ACPeds.org.
