What Is The Rating For 13 Reasons Why A Parents Guide

\"13 Reasons Why\" sparked widespread conversation when it premiered on Netflix in 2017. Based on Jay Asher’s bestselling novel, the series follows teenager Clay Jensen as he listens to cassette tapes recorded by his classmate and crush, Hannah Baker, who died by suicide. On each tape, she outlines one of the 13 reasons that led to her decision. While the show brought mental health issues into mainstream dialogue, it also raised serious concerns among parents, educators, and mental health professionals. Understanding the official rating and what it means for young viewers is essential for families navigating media choices.

Official Rating and Age Recommendation

The TV series \"13 Reasons Why\" is rated **TV-MA** by the TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board. This designation means the content is specifically designed for mature audiences and may be unsuitable for children under 17. The TV-MA rating is equivalent to an R rating in film, indicating strong language, depictions of violence, sexual content, and mature themes.

Netflix, the platform hosting the series, classifies the show with the following descriptors: Strong Sexual Content, Violence, Language, and Disturbing Themes. These warnings are not generic—they reflect specific scenes throughout the series that have prompted concern from child development experts and advocacy groups.

“Exposure to graphic depictions of suicide can increase risk, especially for youth already struggling with mental health.” — Dr. Christine Moutier, Chief Medical Officer, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Content Breakdown by Season

To help parents make informed decisions, here's a season-by-season overview highlighting key content concerns:

Season	Themes	Graphic Content	Parental Advisory Notes
1	Suicide, bullying, sexual assault, substance use	Explicit depiction of suicide (Episode 13), sexual assault scene	Most controversial season; graphic suicide scene removed in later edits
2	Cover-ups, trauma, legal battles, self-harm	Flashbacks to assault, self-injury depictions	Intense courtroom drama; ongoing mental health struggles
3	Murder, police corruption, addiction, violence	Depiction of a murder, drug overdose, physical fights	Shifts focus from suicide to crime; still heavy themes
4	Grief, recovery, closure, final confrontation	Violent altercation, emotional breakdowns	Less graphic than earlier seasons but emotionally intense

Tip: If your teen watches the series, watch together or review episode summaries first. Being prepared allows for better post-viewing discussions.

Why the Rating Matters: Psychological Impact on Teens

The TV-MA rating isn’t merely a suggestion—it reflects real risks associated with exposure to certain content at a vulnerable developmental stage. Adolescents are highly impressionable, and research indicates that dramatized portrayals of suicide, particularly when depicted in detail, can lead to imitation behaviors, known as the “Werther effect.”

A 2019 study published in Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found a significant increase in youth suicide rates following the release of the first season of \"13 Reasons Why.\" While correlation does not equal causation, mental health experts caution against unguided viewing, especially for teens with pre-existing anxiety, depression, or trauma.

The original version of Season 1 included a nearly three-minute scene showing Hannah’s suicide in graphic detail. After backlash from psychologists and advocacy groups, Netflix removed the scene in 2019. However, the narrative still centers heavily on suicide ideation, bullying, and isolation—topics that require careful handling.

How Parents Can Respond: A Practical Guide

Deciding whether your child should watch \"13 Reasons Why\" depends on their maturity, emotional resilience, and ability to process difficult topics. Instead of outright bans or unrestricted access, consider a balanced approach focused on engagement and education.

1. Review the rating and content warnings – Understand what TV-MA entails and assess whether your child has encountered similar themes responsibly before.
2. Watch the first few episodes yourself – Get firsthand knowledge of tone, pacing, and intensity before discussing it with your teen.
3. Initiate open conversations – Ask questions like, “What do you think the show is trying to say about bullying?” or “How would you support a friend feeling hopeless?”
4. Highlight the differences between fiction and reality – Emphasize that while the show raises valid issues, its storytelling uses dramatic exaggeration for impact.
5. Provide alternative resources – Introduce reputable materials on mental health, such as videos from Child Mind Institute or books like “It’s Kind of a Funny Story” by Ned Vizzini.

Checklist: Preparing to Discuss '13 Reasons Why' With Your Teen

• ✅ Watch at least the first two episodes
• ✅ Read expert reviews from Common Sense Media or APA
• ✅ Identify local or national crisis resources (e.g., 988 Lifeline)
• ✅ Choose a calm time to talk—don’t force the conversation
• ✅ Listen more than lecture; validate emotions

Real Example: A Family’s Experience

When 15-year-old Maya asked her parents if she could watch \"13 Reasons Why,\" her mother, Sarah, hesitated. She had heard mixed reviews—some praised its honesty about teen struggles, while others warned of its triggering nature. Instead of saying no immediately, Sarah watched the first episode alone. Disturbed by the suicide scene, she decided to approach it differently.

She sat down with Maya and explained her concerns. Together, they agreed to watch Episode 1 with a pause plan: stop after every 15 minutes to check in. After the first viewing session, Maya admitted she felt “sad and kind of scared” but appreciated being able to talk about it. Over the next week, they watched selectively, skipping the most intense episodes and focusing on discussion. Sarah also connected Maya with a school counselor to reinforce healthy coping strategies.

This example shows how the TV-MA rating serves as a starting point—not a final verdict. With guidance, some teens can engage critically with challenging content, turning entertainment into a tool for empathy and awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is '13 Reasons Why' appropriate for a 14-year-old?

Generally, no. Most mental health organizations advise against unsupervised viewing for anyone under 16, especially those with anxiety, depression, or past trauma. The emotional weight and graphic content exceed typical adolescent coping thresholds.

Did Netflix change the show due to criticism?

Yes. In response to global feedback, Netflix removed the graphic suicide scene from Season 1 in 2019. They also added stronger viewer warnings before episodes dealing with sensitive topics. However, the core themes remain intense and are still rated TV-MA.

Can watching the show help prevent suicide?

While the show raises awareness, studies suggest it may inadvertently glamorize suicide or misrepresent warning signs. Experts recommend evidence-based programs like SOS Signs of Suicide or QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) instead of relying on fictional narratives for suicide prevention education.

Final Thoughts: Using Ratings as a Tool, Not a Rule

The TV-MA rating for \"13 Reasons Why\" exists for a reason. It signals that this is not typical teen drama but a series steeped in trauma, loss, and complex moral dilemmas. Ratings provide a baseline, but parenting requires going beyond labels. Every child is different—what one teen processes constructively might overwhelm another.

Instead of focusing solely on whether to allow viewing, shift the conversation toward emotional literacy. Use the show’s existence as an opportunity to discuss consent, mental health stigma, digital responsibility, and how to seek help. Knowledge, context, and connection matter far more than a single letter grade.

💬 Your voice matters. Have you discussed \"13 Reasons Why\" with your family? Share your experience or advice in the comments to help other parents navigate this challenging topic.