If they’re watching it, the simple answer is NO! Google’s response to “Does Japanese anime contribute to teen suicide?” is as follows –
“Multiple research studies indicate a correlation between anime viewing and an increased risk of mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts, in adolescents. However, experts emphasize that there is no single cause for suicide, and it is a complex issue driven by a combination of factors. ”
How anime may be a contributing factor
- Media portrayal: Anime can feature characters who are depressed, engage in self-harm, or complete suicide. Certain portrayals can be a trigger for vulnerable viewers, especially adolescents who are more susceptible to the “suicide contagion” or copycat effect.
- Idealization of death: Some anime, such as the isekai genre where a character is reborn into a fantasy world after dying, could potentially romanticize suicide as a means of escape for struggling teens. Research in Russia found that young anime watchers who started in childhood had a higher level of depression in young adulthood, possibly due to identifying with lonely characters.
- Subculture stigma: The anime subculture often faces stigma from peers, which can contribute to mental health concerns such as depression and suicidal thoughts among fans. Research has found that subcultures with a low reputation, such as anime, are associated with more mental health problems in their members.
- Isolation and poor coping mechanisms: Studies have identified a relationship between problematic anime viewing and lower self-efficacy, higher social anxiety, and avoidant coping strategies. For adolescents with preexisting mental health issues, excessive time spent on media can lead to isolation and worsen symptoms. ”
If they’re watching it, the simple answer is NO! Google’s response to “Does Japanese anime contribute to teen suicide?” is as follows –
“Multiple research studies indicate a correlation between anime viewing and an increased risk of mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts, in adolescents. However, experts emphasize that there is no single cause for suicide, and it is a complex issue driven by a combination of factors. ”
How anime may be a contributing factor
- Media portrayal: Anime can feature characters who are depressed, engage in self-harm, or complete suicide. Certain portrayals can be a trigger for vulnerable viewers, especially adolescents who are more susceptible to the “suicide contagion” or copycat effect.
- Idealization of death: Some anime, such as the isekai genre where a character is reborn into a fantasy world after dying, could potentially romanticize suicide as a means of escape for struggling teens. Research in Russia found that young anime watchers who started in childhood had a higher level of depression in young adulthood, possibly due to identifying with lonely characters.
- Subculture stigma: The anime subculture often faces stigma from peers, which can contribute to mental health concerns such as depression and suicidal thoughts among fans. Research has found that subcultures with a low reputation, such as anime, are associated with more mental health problems in their members.
- Isolation and poor coping mechanisms: Studies have identified a relationship between problematic anime viewing and lower self-efficacy, higher social anxiety, and avoidant coping strategies. For adolescents with preexisting mental health issues, excessive time spent on media can lead to isolation and worsen symptoms. ”
