This book explores the depiction of suicide in American youth films from 1900 to 2019. Anchored in Sociology, this multidisciplinary study investigates the causes and consequences of suicide and uncovers the socio-cultural context for the development of youth, film, and suicide. While such cinematic portrayals seem to privilege external explanations of suicide versus internal or psychological ones, overall they are neither rich nor sensitive. Most are simplistic, limited or at the very least unbalanced. At times, they are flatly controversial. In light of this overall problematic depiction of suicide, this book offers a proactive approach to empower young audiences-a media literacy strategy to embrace while watching these films.
"The author is nothing but generous in providing context and in explicating her theoretical, methodological, and conceptual frameworks, which are sure to be helpful to readers who are unfamiliar with the literature on suicide and its representational history. ... Seggi's book is a vital contribution to the literature that goes beyond the pathologizing and individualizing tendencies that are so prevalent in mainstream suicidology research." (Mike F. Alvarez, Qualitative Research in Medicine & Healthcare, Vol. 8 (2), 2024)
"The book is written as an act of service for all unfortified youth, reading like a voice that cuts through static to say, 'I'm here, I'm listening.' To take things up a level, this book is not just a helpful tool for youth but also for anyone who has been affected by suicide. ..." (Kate Brennan, Fulbright Chronicles, Vol. 2 (4), 2024)
"The book is written as an act of service for all unfortified youth, reading like a voice that cuts through static to say, 'I'm here, I'm listening.' To take things up a level, this book is not just a helpful tool for youth but also for anyone who has been affected by suicide. ..." (Kate Brennan, Fulbright Chronicles, Vol. 2 (4), 2024)