Squid Game is a popular Netflix show that has captured the attention of audiences of all ages. However, its graphic violence and mature themes have led many parents to question if it is appropriate for young teenagers. In this article, we will examine the content of Squid Game and provide guidance on whether 13 year olds should be allowed to watch it.
What is Squid Game?
Squid Game is a South Korean thriller series released on Netflix in September 2021. The show centers around a contest in which 456 players who are in deep financial debt compete in a series of childhood games for the chance to win a ₩45.6 billion prize. The catch is that losing any of the games results in death.
As the games progress, players are eliminated in increasingly brutal ways. The show features quite a bit of blood, gore, and violence as contestants are shot, stabbed, or otherwise killed. There are also scenes with strong language, sexual content, and references to suicide.
Aspects of Squid Game that may be inappropriate for 13 year olds
Here are some specific elements of Squid Game that parents may find inappropriate for young teenagers:
Graphic violence
Squid Game depicts a significant amount of bloody violence. Characters are shot at point blank range, resulting in blood spurts. Bodies are shown mutilated and broken after falling from heights. In one scene, an organ harvest operation is shown. While the camera does not linger on these graphic details, the violence is still very visible.
Adult language
There is a considerable amount of profanity spoken in the show, including words like “f*ck”, “sh*t”, and more. The dialogue contains frequent coarse language.
Nudity
There are a couple of scenes in Squid Game that contain nudity. In one scene, female characters are made to strip down to their underwear. Sensitive body parts are censored, but the sexuality is implied.
Mature themes
Squid Game explores some complex moral themes that may be difficult for young teens to digest. This includes questions of morality, mortality, and the dark lengths people will go to fulfill selfish desires. The complex character motives may be harder for children to fully comprehend.
Positive messages in Squid Game
While Squid Game undoubtedly contains mature content, it also conveys some positive messages that may resonate with young viewers. These include:
Anti-capitalist theme
The show highlights the economic despair that many families face. The contestants are all deeply in debt and driven to compete for money despite the risks. This provides commentary on the capitalistic system that prioritizes profits over lives.
Human connection
In the midst of violence, characters form bonds and connections that transcend the competition. They work together, sacrifice for each other, and retain their humanity despite the cruelty surrounding them.
Moral lessons
Characters are faced with moral dilemmas and must choose whether to help others or help themselves. Their choices provide lessons on ethics that align with many parents’ teachings.
Guidance on watching Squid Game at age 13
Most child development experts agree that Squid Game contains content that is inappropriate for children under 14 years old. The graphic violence, language, and adult themes exceed what is typically suitable for 13 year olds.
However, every child is different. Some 13 year olds may possess the maturity to handle more mature content than others. Here are some guidelines for parents to determine if their 13 year old may be ready for a show like Squid Game:
Get to know the show
If your child expresses interest in Squid Game, watch it yourself first so you understand the content. This will enable you to make an informed judgement.
Consider your child’s maturity
Factor in your child’s sensitivity to violence, provocative imagery, and complex dramas. A very mature 13 year old may be able to digest Squid Game while a less developed teen may find it intensely disturbing.
Watch together
If you decide to allow your 13 year old to watch, consider co-viewing Squid Game with them. This gives you the chance to pause and discuss the themes and messages. Guiding them through the show can promote important conversations.
Set viewing rules
Establish rules like only allowing them to watch one episode a day or requiring them to stop if they become uncomfortable. Remind them they can always turn away from graphic scenes.
Monitor their reactions
Pay attention to how your child responds while watching and after finishing each episode. Check in on their ability to process the mature content and themes.
| Pros of watching at 13 | Cons of watching at 13 |
|---|---|
| May appreciate complex storylines | May struggle comprehending moral themes |
| Chance to discuss anti-capitalist sentiment | Violence may be traumatizing |
| Can promote media literacy skills | Risk of nightmares or anxiety |
Conclusion
Squid Game features very mature content that is likely too graphic for most young teens. However, some 13 year olds may be equipped to handle the show, especially if guided by an involved parent.
Know your child’s sensitivities and maturity level. If you choose to allow viewing, enforce rules and maintain an open dialogue. Monitor their ability to process the complex ideas. With these precautions, more mature 13 year olds may be ready for a show like Squid Game, but discretion is still advised.