Exploring the Impact of Pop Culture on the Glamorization and Idealization of Substance Abuse.
Authors- Fatemah Keriwala & Zahra Khan (MSc. Applied Psychology, sem-1)
We all love getting lost in the world of entertainment – whether it's jamming to tunes, binge-watching shows, or catching the latest flicks. This modern indulgence keeps us entertained or our escape from our daily lives. But here's the twist – have you ever paused to think about how this entertainment can quietly reshape our thoughts? This article is a journey into the shadows, revealing how pop culture can paint substance abuse as an alluring path.
What is Overdose Awareness Day?
Before we delve into the depths of media's influence, let's acquaint ourselves with the profound weight of International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). International Overdose Awareness Day was initiated in 2001 by Sally J Finn at The Salvation Army in St Kilda, Melbourne.
It's more than just a day; it’s a resonance of a vital message – the need to honor those who've fallen to drug overdose. Since then, IOAD has sparked collaboration among individuals, communities, and governments to illuminate the issue. Beyond its remembrance of the fallen, it acts as a catalyst for vital conversations and evidence-based policies centered around overdose prevention and drug control. The campaign serves as an unyielding beacon of hope, striving not only to remember the past but also to shape a safer and more informed future.
An Overview of the Entertainment Industry in shaping our perception
The entertainment world holds significant sway over how we see and act in society through its widespread media offerings. This power comes from its ability to shape stories, stir up feelings, and set trends in our culture. Some important aspects of this connection include- Reflecting on Our Culture, Common Norms and Standards Learning From Others Forming Our Attitude.
Pop Culture's Role in Shaping Attitudes
Picture this: we're dancing to familiar beats, wrapped in the humor of sitcoms, and before we know it, something beyond entertainment is seeping in. Media operates like a craftsman's touch, subtly chiseling our perspectives without our awareness. From the songs we hum to the shows we binge-watch, every element leaves an imprint on our minds, both consciously and unconsciously.
Pop culture, short for popular culture, refers to the collection of ideas, images, attitudes, trends, and phenomena that are prevalent within a society at a given point in time.
From Hollywood romances to MET Gala fashion, staying updated with trends and discussions is a shared interest.
But it's not just about buying the latest merch or following the latest trends, pop culture stealthily influences how we see the world and shapes our attitudes, often without us even realizing it. Characters we adore, celebrity lifestyles, and movie ideals subtly mold our perspectives. Entertainment isn't just fun; it’s a quiet shaper of our thoughts.
Likewise, media possesses real-life implications and an unparalleled ability to spread messages and mold cultural norms, making both positive and negative impacts. Whether it's inclusivity, representation or using media to send a powerful message.
Pop culture, short for popular culture, refers to the collection of ideas, images, attitudes, trends, and phenomena that are prevalent within a society at a given point in time.
From Hollywood romances to MET Gala fashion, staying updated with trends and discussions is a shared interest.
But it's not just about buying the latest merch or following the latest trends, pop culture stealthily influences how we see the world and shapes our attitudes, often without us even realizing it. Characters we adore, celebrity lifestyles, and movie ideals subtly mold our perspectives. Entertainment isn't just fun; it’s a quiet shaper of our thoughts.
Likewise, media possesses real-life implications and an unparalleled ability to spread messages and mold cultural norms, making both positive and negative impacts. Whether it's inclusivity, representation or using media to send a powerful message.
The Positives:
Media's impact extends beyond the screen, spurring societal conversations and change. "Black Panther" transcended its cinematic narrative, prompting discussions on representation and cultural identity. In fact, a research article published by the APA on "Exploring Identity and Coping Among Black Viewers of Marvel's Black Panther: Psychology of Popular Media", concluded that "Black Panther" served as a catalyst for important conversations surrounding issues of race, ethnicity, and representation. The film ignited a sense of cultural pride, as respondents expressed feelings of validation and empowerment upon seeing Black characters portrayed as complex and heroic figures. Moreover, the research revealed that the movie provided a platform for coping with the stresses of everyday life and the challenges posed by racial discrimination. Viewers reported a heightened sense of resilience and motivation, inspired by the characters' determination and the film's underlying themes of unity and strength.
The Negatives:
The research article titled "Sexual Objectification in Music Videos and Acceptance of Potentially Offensive Sexual Behaviors" revealed a concerning connection between exposure to sexual objectification in music videos and a higher acceptance of behaviours that could be perceived as offensive or degrading in a sexual context. Individuals who were more frequently exposed to such content were found to be more likely to endorse or accept attitudes and behaviours that objectified and demeaned individuals in sexual situations.
The research article titled "The Problem of Consent, Objectification, and Regressive Role Models in Bollywood Songs: A View from Pakistan," authored by Zoha Aamir, also explores similar issues and addresses concerning themes prevalent in Bollywood songs and their impact.
Escapism & Identity Formation
For those who personally struggle with problematic drug and alcohol use, it's clear that what we see on TV and the internet often doesn't match reality. The media keeps switching between showing drug and alcohol use in both positive and negative lights.
Sometimes, it pulls people towards addiction, while other times, it plants harmful ideas that stop us from speaking out and getting help. Strangely, the media sometimes makes addiction look cool, similar to how they show rebellious characters smoking cigarettes. Substance abuse and addiction can be portrayed in ways that make dependency on drugs and alcohol seem attractive. People depicted as heavy users party at clubs and bars, dealing with hangovers and crashes as if it's all part of an exciting lifestyle. The media often presents substance use as an escape from life's problems or routines, creating a rosy picture of freedom and thrill. Characters turn to drugs and alcohol to briefly escape stress or issues. But this glamorization hurts by downplaying how serious addiction is. In 2018, around 2,917 people died from illicit drug use, and a total of 4,359 died from drug poisoning in the UK, a 17% rise from the previous year. The alcohol-related death toll was around 24,720 in England during the same year. Behind each of these numbers is a life lost and, usually, a network of family and friends grappling with grief. Sadly, the early stages of addiction are when a person is most influenced by their surroundings and is at the highest risk. Young people, especially, consume and share digital media rapidly, which makes any positive portrayal of substance abuse even more damaging today. As we dive into understanding this on International Overdose Awareness Day, it's a reminder that the media's image of addiction often doesn't match the harsh reality. It's time to see beyond the screen and recognize the importance of real-life stories and support.
The research article titled "The Problem of Consent, Objectification, and Regressive Role Models in Bollywood Songs: A View from Pakistan," authored by Zoha Aamir, also explores similar issues and addresses concerning themes prevalent in Bollywood songs and their impact.
Escapism & Identity Formation
For those who personally struggle with problematic drug and alcohol use, it's clear that what we see on TV and the internet often doesn't match reality. The media keeps switching between showing drug and alcohol use in both positive and negative lights.
Sometimes, it pulls people towards addiction, while other times, it plants harmful ideas that stop us from speaking out and getting help. Strangely, the media sometimes makes addiction look cool, similar to how they show rebellious characters smoking cigarettes. Substance abuse and addiction can be portrayed in ways that make dependency on drugs and alcohol seem attractive. People depicted as heavy users party at clubs and bars, dealing with hangovers and crashes as if it's all part of an exciting lifestyle. The media often presents substance use as an escape from life's problems or routines, creating a rosy picture of freedom and thrill. Characters turn to drugs and alcohol to briefly escape stress or issues. But this glamorization hurts by downplaying how serious addiction is. In 2018, around 2,917 people died from illicit drug use, and a total of 4,359 died from drug poisoning in the UK, a 17% rise from the previous year. The alcohol-related death toll was around 24,720 in England during the same year. Behind each of these numbers is a life lost and, usually, a network of family and friends grappling with grief. Sadly, the early stages of addiction are when a person is most influenced by their surroundings and is at the highest risk. Young people, especially, consume and share digital media rapidly, which makes any positive portrayal of substance abuse even more damaging today. As we dive into understanding this on International Overdose Awareness Day, it's a reminder that the media's image of addiction often doesn't match the harsh reality. It's time to see beyond the screen and recognize the importance of real-life stories and support.
Glamorization of Drug Abuse
Two different research paper articles based on the same show, but with 2 different approaches, show us how perceptions and attitudes mold people's behaviors including, substance use and abuse.
These research papers are based on a show called "Euphoria," the HBO TV show, is a captivating drama that delves into the complex lives of teenagers as they navigate the challenges of adolescence, mental health, identity, and substance use.
A paper titled The Euphoria Effect poses the question "Can a fictional show affect its audience’s perspectives on the issue of drug use and addiction in society?". In this paper they designed a study to assess the association between the popular HBO show Euphoria and the perspectives of Gen Z on the drug issue beliefs regarding the causes of drug addiction, feelings toward drug users and those caught in drug addiction, and attitudes toward harm reduction, treatment, and punitive drug policies. It provides compelling evidence of a potential connection between a popular TV show and politically relevant attitudes.
While another paper titled: An analysis of Reddit comments about HBO’s Euphoria to understand viewers’ experiences of and reactions to substance use and mental illness" suggests that, the show sparked discussions about these sensitive topics, encouraging viewers to share their own stories and thoughts, many finding it relatable and emotionally resonant. The show's portrayal of substance use and mental illness generated empathy and recognition among viewers and potentially contributed to reducing the stigma around substance use and mental health.
These research papers are based on a show called "Euphoria," the HBO TV show, is a captivating drama that delves into the complex lives of teenagers as they navigate the challenges of adolescence, mental health, identity, and substance use.
A paper titled The Euphoria Effect poses the question "Can a fictional show affect its audience’s perspectives on the issue of drug use and addiction in society?". In this paper they designed a study to assess the association between the popular HBO show Euphoria and the perspectives of Gen Z on the drug issue beliefs regarding the causes of drug addiction, feelings toward drug users and those caught in drug addiction, and attitudes toward harm reduction, treatment, and punitive drug policies. It provides compelling evidence of a potential connection between a popular TV show and politically relevant attitudes.
While another paper titled: An analysis of Reddit comments about HBO’s Euphoria to understand viewers’ experiences of and reactions to substance use and mental illness" suggests that, the show sparked discussions about these sensitive topics, encouraging viewers to share their own stories and thoughts, many finding it relatable and emotionally resonant. The show's portrayal of substance use and mental illness generated empathy and recognition among viewers and potentially contributed to reducing the stigma around substance use and mental health.
Impact on Vulnerable Audiences
When it comes to young people, what they see about substance abuse and overdose in the media holds a powerful grip. Why? Well, their developing brains, their need to figure out who they are, their tendency to be swayed by friends, and their emotional sensitivity all play a part. Because they haven't experienced much yet and might not be super savvy about media, they often take what they see as truth. The media makes drugs and alcohol sometimes seem exciting and not so risky, which suits their hunger for adventure and risky stuff. But, to fix this, we need to make sure they're smart about media, talk openly, and learn real facts. We’ve got to teach them to tell apart media stories from real life. The youth nowadays wants cool and intense experiences, and the media makes that look appealing. There are a bunch of reasons they're so influenced:
1. Their Changing Brains: As teens, their brains are still cooking, especially parts that deal with choices and keeping urges in check. That makes them more likely to go for quick rewards, like what the media shows about using substances.
2. Who Am I?: Teens are figuring themselves out and want to fit in with their pals. Media often makes substance use look like a way to be different, bold, and part of Article for Psych Creative 5 the gang, which is a draw for teens searching for their identity.
3. Friends and Pressure: Teens are easily pushed by their buddies. When media makes substance use look like the norm, it pushes teens even more to try it out, thinking everyone's doing it.
4. Feeling All the Feels: Teens are like emotional sponges, soaking up all sorts of feelings. Media often shows substances as an escape from those feelings, something that hits close to home when teens are dealing with their own struggles.
5. Not a Ton of Experience: Teens don't have much real-life experience yet, and they might not be the best at spotting fake stuff in the media. They might think what they see on screens is how things really roll.
6. Risk? What Risk?: Teens tend to play down the dangers of substance use, thinking they're invincible. And the media going easy on the bad stuff just makes that worse.
7. Hunting for Thrills: Teens are all about new and wild stuff. Media saying drugs and alcohol are all fun and joy feeds right into that.
1. Their Changing Brains: As teens, their brains are still cooking, especially parts that deal with choices and keeping urges in check. That makes them more likely to go for quick rewards, like what the media shows about using substances.
2. Who Am I?: Teens are figuring themselves out and want to fit in with their pals. Media often makes substance use look like a way to be different, bold, and part of Article for Psych Creative 5 the gang, which is a draw for teens searching for their identity.
3. Friends and Pressure: Teens are easily pushed by their buddies. When media makes substance use look like the norm, it pushes teens even more to try it out, thinking everyone's doing it.
4. Feeling All the Feels: Teens are like emotional sponges, soaking up all sorts of feelings. Media often shows substances as an escape from those feelings, something that hits close to home when teens are dealing with their own struggles.
5. Not a Ton of Experience: Teens don't have much real-life experience yet, and they might not be the best at spotting fake stuff in the media. They might think what they see on screens is how things really roll.
6. Risk? What Risk?: Teens tend to play down the dangers of substance use, thinking they're invincible. And the media going easy on the bad stuff just makes that worse.
7. Hunting for Thrills: Teens are all about new and wild stuff. Media saying drugs and alcohol are all fun and joy feeds right into that.
What is the Responsibility of the Entertainment Industry?
Media production in the context of substance abuse and overdose raises significant ethical concerns due to its potential impact on society. The portrayal of drug use in movies, TV shows, and music can glamorize or normalize these behaviors, influencing impressionable audiences, especially the youth, to experiment with substances. This glamorization can downplay the harsh realities of addiction, fostering a dangerous misunderstanding Regulatory guidelines could assist in maintaining a balance between artistic freedom and social responsibility. Ultimately, the media's power to shape perceptions demands a conscientious approach to minimize harm and contribute to a better-informed society. Content creators have a
big role in showing substance use in movies, TV, and other stuff the right way. It's like they hold a mirror to real life. Here's how they can do it right:
1. Keep it Real: Show what really happens when people use drugs. Don't make it look all cool or fake.
2. Good and Bad: Tell the whole story. Show that drugs might feel good in the moment, but they can mess up your life big time in the long run.
3. Truth about Trouble: Be honest about the bad stuff. Drugs can mess with your health, your friends, your family, and even get you into trouble with the law. 4. Different Lives: Don't forget that people from all walks of life use drugs. Show different kinds of people and their experiences.
5. Why People Use: Sometimes people use drugs to cope with problems. Tell that side of the story too.
6. Other Ways: Don't just show drugs as the answer. Share other ways people can deal with tough times, like talking to someone or finding a hobby.
7. Talk to Experts: Get advice from doctors and people who know about drugs. Make sure what you're showing is real and helpful.
8. Be Careful with Younger Folks: If your stuff is for kids or teens, be extra careful. Young minds can be influenced easily
9. Show Help is There: Let people know there's help if they're struggling with drugs. Share resources where they can get support. It is important to remember what content creators put out there can shape what people think and do.
It is important to note that although media and pop culture in general have an impact on our perception towards substance abuse, other psychosocial factors also play a major role.
big role in showing substance use in movies, TV, and other stuff the right way. It's like they hold a mirror to real life. Here's how they can do it right:
1. Keep it Real: Show what really happens when people use drugs. Don't make it look all cool or fake.
2. Good and Bad: Tell the whole story. Show that drugs might feel good in the moment, but they can mess up your life big time in the long run.
3. Truth about Trouble: Be honest about the bad stuff. Drugs can mess with your health, your friends, your family, and even get you into trouble with the law. 4. Different Lives: Don't forget that people from all walks of life use drugs. Show different kinds of people and their experiences.
5. Why People Use: Sometimes people use drugs to cope with problems. Tell that side of the story too.
6. Other Ways: Don't just show drugs as the answer. Share other ways people can deal with tough times, like talking to someone or finding a hobby.
7. Talk to Experts: Get advice from doctors and people who know about drugs. Make sure what you're showing is real and helpful.
8. Be Careful with Younger Folks: If your stuff is for kids or teens, be extra careful. Young minds can be influenced easily
9. Show Help is There: Let people know there's help if they're struggling with drugs. Share resources where they can get support. It is important to remember what content creators put out there can shape what people think and do.
It is important to note that although media and pop culture in general have an impact on our perception towards substance abuse, other psychosocial factors also play a major role.
Dealing with Overdose
Swift Actions That Save Lives Dealing with an overdose demands immediate action and informed decision-making. Whether you're facing this situation personally or assisting someone in need,
understanding the right steps to take can be critical in ensuring the best possible outcome. In this article, we'll guide you through the essential actions to effectively respond to an overdose incident.
1. Call for Professional Assistance: The first and most crucial step is to call emergency services (911 or your local emergency number) immediately. Trained medical professionals can provide the necessary care and interventions.
2. Stay Calm and Communicate Clearly: Staying calm is essential to convey accurate information to the emergency operator. Describe the situation, the person's condition, any substances involved, and any symptoms observed.
3. Stay with the Person: If the individual is conscious, remaining by their side provides comfort and reassurance. If unconscious, turning them on their side can prevent choking on vomit.
4. Administer Naloxone (if applicable): If the overdose involves Opioids and you have access to naloxone (Narcan), follow the instructions to administer it in the presence of a medical practitioner. Naloxone can rapidly reverse the effects of opioid overdose.
5. Monitor Breathing and Perform CPR (if needed): Continuously monitor the person's breathing. If breathing stops or becomes difficult, perform CPR if you are trained to do so.
6. Stay Informed and Prevent Future Incidents: Understanding the signs of overdose for various substances equips you to respond effectively.
Following the immediate crisis, seek support for substance use concerns, consult healthcare professionals, and explore treatment options to prevent future occurrences. Reacting promptly and knowledgeably to an overdose situation can make a life-saving difference. By following these steps and remaining composed under pressure, you can contribute to a positive outcome and play a crucial role in someone's well-being.
understanding the right steps to take can be critical in ensuring the best possible outcome. In this article, we'll guide you through the essential actions to effectively respond to an overdose incident.
1. Call for Professional Assistance: The first and most crucial step is to call emergency services (911 or your local emergency number) immediately. Trained medical professionals can provide the necessary care and interventions.
2. Stay Calm and Communicate Clearly: Staying calm is essential to convey accurate information to the emergency operator. Describe the situation, the person's condition, any substances involved, and any symptoms observed.
3. Stay with the Person: If the individual is conscious, remaining by their side provides comfort and reassurance. If unconscious, turning them on their side can prevent choking on vomit.
4. Administer Naloxone (if applicable): If the overdose involves Opioids and you have access to naloxone (Narcan), follow the instructions to administer it in the presence of a medical practitioner. Naloxone can rapidly reverse the effects of opioid overdose.
5. Monitor Breathing and Perform CPR (if needed): Continuously monitor the person's breathing. If breathing stops or becomes difficult, perform CPR if you are trained to do so.
6. Stay Informed and Prevent Future Incidents: Understanding the signs of overdose for various substances equips you to respond effectively.
Following the immediate crisis, seek support for substance use concerns, consult healthcare professionals, and explore treatment options to prevent future occurrences. Reacting promptly and knowledgeably to an overdose situation can make a life-saving difference. By following these steps and remaining composed under pressure, you can contribute to a positive outcome and play a crucial role in someone's well-being.
References
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/367073947_The_Euphoria_Effect
https://shorturl.at/lsEFS
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