How to Get Away with Murder: Parent’s Guide
As a parent, it’s essential to be aware of the provocative and intense television show How to Get Away with Murder (HTGAWM) and address any concerns or questions children may have about the characters, plotlines, or themes. This parent’s guide aims to provide sensitive and age-appropriate solutions to help parents navigate tricky conversations with their kids after watching the show.
Is HTGAWM Suitable for Children?
The American Parent Television Council (PTV) rates HTGAWM TV-Ma, meaning it recommends parental guidance due to mature themes and content. Children aged under 17 may find:
• Violent portrayals: Scenes with gunfire, stabbings, and other forms of brutal violence.
• Graphic content: Sexuality (including explicit scenes and casual references), gore, substance abuse, and mental manipulation.
• Adult conversation: Mature themes like lies, deceit, murder plots, and corrupt individuals on the show.
• Emotional impact: Suicidal ideation and mental health issues portrayed extensively throughout the series.
When and Under What Circumstances Watching HTGAWM is Acceptable)
Children or teenagers should only watch HTGAWM only under the following circumstances (with parental supervision):
Contents
Table: Superseding Conditions
| Age | Circumstance | Supervision Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Older teenagers (14- 17 years | Mature themes are clearly outlined and discussed prior to episodes. Parental discretion essential. | Parents review/show episodes, ensure kid remains calm and does not participate in discussions that involve plotlines or themes they’d find disturbing. |
| – | – |
Younger children
(Under 18 years) | No! | Absolutely no exposure; instead, opt for parent-child discussions and provide adequate guidance on social values through alternative media, education at home, and direct child guidance. |
No exceptions should be made or children allowed to watch.
Handling Awkward Conversations – Tips for Parents
Encourage open dialogue to allay concerns and questions before watching HTGAWM_, or after, addressing reactions and emotions.
Top 5 Talking Points as a Parent:
- Listen actively and respond appropriately during conversations.
- Reevaluate your child’s age before allowing them to watch;
- Discuss moral compass lines and consequences for illegal/negative actions on screen vs. real-life; emphasize empathy and self-regret.
- Acknowledge it’s okay to make terrible choices, and highlight individual growth and development from bad to good; role-demonstrate.
- If your child experiences stress-induced anxiety or distress from repeated exposure,
STOP WATCHINGor shift focus to a healthier perspective.
Educating On Social Values
Real-Life Lessons for Teens/Elder Children:
• Deception and dishonesty result in harm, causing social and emotional strain; discussing consequences and regretting regretful actions can teach humility.
• Loyalty only goes so far, respecting boundaries and respecting those.
• Mental health support requires seeking help; emphasize mental stamina and self-care habits and coping mechanisms.
<i Teachings vs.TV Portrayal Divergence:
Television content
does not promote healthy habits. The divide between TV content and wholesome, positive outcomes, reinforced through parental involvement and supervision, is essential to set a positive standard.
Supervise, have mature conversations, and adapt. The key is guidance:
• Monitoring behavior closely;
•
• Age-related modifications;
•
If you’re still concerned HTGAWM‘, consider alternative television programming or address moral content through:
Other options:
• Encourage other TV shows that showcase life lessons, humor, moral values, or self growth.
• Focus on healthy habits, education at hom, and guidance with books, documentaries, educational outlets, or local extrinsic activities.
• Enclose the room where they stream/ watch HT while discussing it openly & honestly.
By employing guidelines, addressing moral and personal concerns, you ensure growth, maturity, and shared understanding with your children (or teenagers) around How to Get Away with Murder.</`
