Is “May December” Suitable for Your Child’s Psychological Safety? If they watch..

When selecting movies for family viewing, parents must consider not only their entertainment value, but also the psychological and emotional impact on their children and teenagers. The film “May December” has received a lot of attention, prompting worries about its suitability for young audiences. This article presents a full examination of “May December,” focusing on its age suitability, potential psychological effects, and parental recommendations.

Plot Overview of “May December”

Todd Haynes’ film, “May December,” explores the story of a scandalous connection between an older woman and a much younger guy, delving into themes of love, power relationships, and public censure. While the film delves into complicated adult issues, its substance raises questions regarding its suitability for younger audiences.

Age Suitability

“May December” is unsuitable for youngsters under the age of 18. The film’s deep themes, graphic content, and emotional intensity make it unsuitable for younger audiences, who may lack the maturity or context to handle these complicated subjects.

Potential Psychological Impacts

1. 1. Confusion about Relationships: Younger viewers may form distorted perceptions of relationships, particularly those involving significantly older and younger partners.
   2. Emotional Distress: The film’s intense emotional scenes may cause anxiety, fear, or confusion.
   3. Behavioral changes include imitation of adult behaviors, a misunderstanding of consent, and power dynamics.

The following table summarizes the potential negative situations that may arise if “May December” is viewed by inappropriate age groups:

Parental Guidance

For parents whose children might have watched “May December,” it is crucial to address the content and its potential impacts. Here are some steps to mitigate any negative effects:

1. Open Discussion: Tell your children about the film. Inquire about what they understood and felt during the movie. Correct any misconceptions and provide context.
2. Explain Relationships: Discuss healthy relationships, including the significance of consent, mutual respect, and appropriate age dynamics..
3. Monitor Behavior: Observe any changes in behavior and offer reassurance and support as necessary.
4. Seek Professional Help: If you notice significant distress or behavioral changes, consult a child psychologist for professional advice.

Movies That Will Produce Approximately the Same Results as This Movie

Parents should be cautious of the following films, which may have similar effects due to their mature content and themes:

1. “Blue Valentine” – Explores the breakdown of a relationship with intense emotional scenes.
2. “Requiem for a Dream” – Depicts addiction and its devastating effects.
3. “Black Swan” – Centers on psychological distress and intense competition.
4. “American Beauty” – Explores dysfunctional family dynamics and mid-life crises.
5. “Lolita” – Focuses on an inappropriate relationship between an adult and a minor.
6. “Closer” – Deals with infidelity and complex romantic relationships.
7. “Revolutionary Road” – Highlights the struggles of a troubled marriage.
8. “Gone Girl” – Contains themes of manipulation and deceit in relationships.
9. “A Dangerous Method” – Explores the psychological complexities in a historical context.
10. “Eyes Wide Shut” – Delves into sexual exploration and marital issues.

These movies, like “May December,” feature mature themes and are best suited for adult audiences.

For More…

For more information on child and adolescent psychology safety and parental guidance, consider these resources:

1. 1. American Psychological Association
   2. Common Sense Media
   3. Child Mind Institute

Resources

1. 1. IMDb – May December
   2. Rotten Tomatoes – May December Reviews
   3. American Psychological Association – Parenting
   4. Common Sense Media
   5. Child Mind Institute

Conclusion

While “May December” provides an engaging story for adults, its mature themes and intense content make it inappropriate for children and adolescents. Parents should exercise caution and engage in open discussions with their children to mitigate any potential negative effects from watching this film. Parents can help their children’s psychological safety and well-being by understanding the impact of the movie and providing appropriate guidance.