Holistic analysis of werther effect.

[Jannes]

In psychology there is the observation that when suicides cases are presented to the public like when a star does it or when it happens in a play (for example the play: the sorrows of young Werther) people mimic it. Therefore showing suicide cases in films is widely banned or restricted in such a way that is shouldn't be shown in to much detail and to heroic/ epic.

Of course all these restriction make sense as a first reaction. But in the big picture I think it may be a loss. If will bring people who are mentally very unstable over the edge. But for mentally more healthy people it shows them ways in which they could seriously slip up and therefore prepares them. 

So from a holistic/ long term point of view if could be a net positive to show suicide cases more openly. So holistically when do you think is showing suicide good, when is it bad?

 

Edited December 1, 2023 by Jannes