MTV’s newest program, Skins, aired its premiere on Monday’s January 17th, 2010. The show, based on a British program of the same name, is rated MA for mature audiences, yet the program is about the lives of seven high school friends, complete with references to and portrayals of drug and alcohol use as well as casual sexual activity. Despite the rating and the mature content, many critics argue that the show was designed for and is being marketed to kids and teenagers.
Parents Oppose "Skins"
Described by the Parents Television Council as “the most dangerous program ever for children,” Skins is sure to be a hit with young people. It depicts adults as either clueless losers or sexual objects. It sexualizes all of its young stars, especially the girls, especially in the promos which aired and were available on YouTube in the weeks prior to the premier. The promos have a distinctly sexual overtone, panning across the young stars’ bodies while they describe themselves for the camera.
It might surprise viewers to learn that many cast members, as well as writers, are said to be teens themselves. This was done purposely to make the show more true to life. In addition, despite claims that the program is really targeting adults and not children, one of the producers gave an interview with Adweek where he stated that “what Skins delivers is kids. That’s what it delivers to advertisers.” He admitted that the program is being used to attract kids so that they can be targeted with advertising.
The Parent’s Television Council is currently sponsoring a campaign to protest this show with the companies who choose to advertise it’s products during the program. Those who wish to have their voices heard on this issue can visit their website and sign their petition.
Support for "Skins"
Supporters of the program claim that teens are indeed involved with drugs, alcohol, and sex, and therefore showing such a program only reflects what is already happening, rather than promoting these behaviors.
The truth is, however, that not all teens are involved in these behaviors. But shows like these tend to normalize these activities, which means they present these activities as if all teenagers do act this way. Such normalization can have a negative impact on those kids that are not involved in these behaviors, and provide easy rationalization for kids that are.
This certainly isn’t the first program for teens with mature content. However, what is different about Skins is the fact that the sex, drugs, and alcohol are so disturbingly casual and blatant. These teens seem to exist for nothing else. Glamorizing this behavior sends the wrong message about teen culture and what our teens are all about.
Susan Carney - I have been working as a middle school counselor with 6th and 7th grade students for the past thirteen years. I received a BA in ...
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