Is anime the cause for suicide in teens

A few months ago, I came across a study claiming that six cases of suicide attempts in a school in Oman were attributed to watching Korean dramas and anime. While setting aside the scientific analysis of the study’s methodology, the evidence it relied on, the selection of participants, and the tools used to assess suicidal thoughts and attempts, I find the conclusion that watching Korean dramas and anime causes suicide attempts to be scientifically unfounded. Suicide is a complex phenomenon influenced by various factors.

Readers might wonder, for instance, if watching these shows were indeed the cause, why were there only six cases of suicide, despite a larger viewership? Such analytical questions are crucial to understanding the results of this study. This news prompted me to explore anime series and their potential to cause addiction.

The term 'anime' refers to a style of animation, including series, comics, and movies, that is heavily influenced by Japanese art and storytelling techniques. Anime originated in Japan in the early 1960s and has since spread worldwide, attracting viewers of all ages. It is characterised by vibrant colours, energetic characters, and diverse stories - some realistic, others fantastical.

These stories often carry layered meanings and complex plots, presented in short episodes that capture the audience's attention. Personally, when I think of anime, the character 'Pikachu' from Pokémon comes to mind - a yellow, cat-like creature with a soft voice that emits electricity to fight evil.

Anime addiction is similar to video game addiction and affects individuals differently. While one person may become addicted to a single game or show, another might remain unaffected even with longer exposure. Adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 are particularly vulnerable to anime addiction, possibly because this stage of life is marked by various pressures. Some teens turn to anime, with its idealised scenarios and happy endings, as an escape from their real-world challenges.

Psychology tells us that anime addiction can dominate a teenager's focus, isolating them from family and friends and discouraging participation in activities they once enjoyed. They may become irritable and anxious, neglect their studies, and even spend large sums on purchasing anime films.

Some teens take their passion further by dressing up as their favourite anime characters and mimicking their speech, deepening their immersion in this fantasy world. In Japan, conferences and parties are held for anime enthusiasts, where they create their realm, play video games, and eat themed foods.

However, it’s worth noting that most anime fans lose interest as they grow older and engage with other aspects of life.

Nonetheless, parents should monitor what their teens watch and how they spend their time, fostering open and thoughtful dialogue instead of resorting to fear tactics or strict prohibitions.

Strict bans often backfire, as teens may watch anime in secret, viewing it as a form of rebellion against a 'controlling' parent from an older generation that fails to understand or appreciate anime.

In my opinion, fostering open communication, understanding adolescents' interests, and addressing their mental health concerns holistically are far more effective approaches to preventing anime addiction.