TV Shows and Movies: Glossing Over Critical Matters

Introduction

From TV shows to movies, certain scenarios are often depicted with a light touch that can overshadow the significant risks they pose in real life. This article aims to highlight some of these oversights and emphasize why they matter.

Avoiding the Seriousness of Critical Injuries: Getting Knocked Unconscious

One of the most common oversights in both TV shows and movies is the casual treatment of getting knocked unconscious. Typically, a character gets whacked over the head, blacks out, shakes their head a few times, and carries on as if nothing happened. In reality, losing consciousness due to an impact can be a sign of a severe head injury. Medical professionals advise that recovering from such an injury can take months, depending on the severity. The protective measures taken in such scenarios in real life are vastly different.

Harsh Realities of Real-Life Incidents

Crashing Through Windows

Another scenario that is often downplayed in media is the potential for severe injury when a character crashes through a window. On screen, the character might get a few bruises and dents in their clothing, but they recover swiftly. In reality, a crash through a window can easily lead to severe injuries, including broken bones, cuts, and concussions. The risk of fatality is also a serious concern.

Adults Dating Teenagers

Television and film often portray mature adults dating teenagers with little to no acknowledgment of the developmental and ethical issues involved. For instance, shows like Pretty Little Liars feature adult characters dating high school students, with no clear attention to the age disparity and potential issues it might pose. This can overlook the important public health message regarding age-appropriate relationships and legal repercussions.

Blackout Sex and Consent

Another significant issue is the depiction of blackout sex, where a character wakes up in bed with someone and is unsure if they consented. This scenario is not a humorous plot twist but a serious issue of sexual assault. Consent is a crucial aspect of any sexual encounter, and its absence can lead to severe legal and emotional consequences for the involved parties.

Getting Shot: A Big Deal

Countless characters in popular TV series such as Starsky and Hutch, Mannix, and Magnum P.I. get shot yet appear fine or with minor injuries in the next episode. In reality, being shot is a life-threatening situation. In the aftermath, a person may face significant physical and psychological challenges, including medical complications, psychological trauma, and long-term recovery.

Other Misleading Depictions

Romantic Stalking

The portrayal of stalking in romantic films is often romanticized. A prime example is the 1989 film "Say Anything", where the character John Cusack's behavior is depicted as endearing. However, in reality, romantic stalking can be frightening and dangerous. Stalking can escalate into serious violence and is a form of abuse that requires immediate attention.

Getting Fired

Another overlooked issue is the casual treatment of getting fired. Many people have no savings or alternative employment, making losing a job a traumatic experience. Media often trivializes this scenario, leading to a misperception of the seriousness of job loss.

Neighbor Disputes

In fictional narratives, neighbor disputes are typically portrayed as minor inconveniences. However, in real life, aggressive and violent neighbors can pose significant safety risks. These scenarios often lack the real-world seriousness and can mislead viewers about the potential dangers.

Fights

Fights in TV shows and movies are often depicted as action-packed with little to no physical harm. In reality, fights can result in severe injuries, including broken teeth, concussions, skull fractures, and even internal organ damage like a ruptured spleen. Characters typically recover quickly, but this does not reflect the often painful and long-term recovery process.

Pointing a Firearm at Someone

Media often portrays pointing a firearm at someone as a relatively minor issue. In reality, pointing a firearm, whether accidentally or intended, can lead to serious legal consequences. Depending on the circumstances, you could face charges such as brandishing, assault, or even attempted murder. In extreme cases, pointing a firearm can lead to fatal outcomes.

Conclusion

While TV shows and movies can be entertaining, it is crucial to remember that many of the scenarios they depict are heavily simplified and often downplay the real risks and consequences involved. Viewers should be mindful of these oversights and strive to understand the serious implications behind the scenes. By fostering a more realistic portrayal, we can raise awareness and promote public safety and well-being.