Since the 1990s. there have been many teen drama TV shows that have gained massive popularity among audiences from different generations. Some of these popular shows include Gilmore Girls, 13 Reasons Why, Heartstopper, and Stranger Things. But despite the majority of these shows revolving around the lives of teenage high schoolers, how accurate are these shows to real life? Let’s see what people have to say about them.
Let’s first see what teen dramas people have been seeing or have seen. “I have seen To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before as well as Euphoria,” said freshman student Miley Del Cid.
“My favorite teen drama is On My Block. I have watched Stranger Things, 13 Reasons Why, and Riverdale,” said senior Cherlyn Castillo Velasquez.
“I am not really watching any teen dramas right now, but I do have some old-school favorites! I loved Beverly Hills 90210 and My So-Called Life. Those were both from the 90s, but you can probably find them to stream,” said yearbook and journalism teacher Ms.Miller.
There are some notable similarities between TV shows’ high schools and real high schools. “Some things that happen to the characters like drama and family issues happen to everyone at some point in their life,” said Miley.
“Both real high schools and the ones in TV shows have the popular girls and boys groups, friendships, dating, and bullies.” Says Cherlyn.
“I mean…there are students in a school building learning,” said Ms. Miller.
There have also been cases in which people’s real-life experiences have been reflected upon in TV shows through events and characters. “I was really quiet in high school because I was just shy, but I was often misunderstood. People thought I was snobby, but I actually just lacked confidence and had social anxiety. So I guess I related to the characters who were misunderstood or unsure of themselves. More specifically, Donna Martin on 90210, because everyone always underestimated her intellect and her intentions. She was a good person, but was often misunderstood,” said Ms. Miller.
“A character I relate to the most in the show Riverdale is Betty Cooper. Betty Cooper went through so many lies and betrayals. She couldn’t even trust her family. I feel the same way because I’ve been there,” said Cherlyn.
However, there are some things in these shows which are a little inaccurate to real life. “They make it seem like everyone’s life is filled with major issues, emotional drama, and relationship problems,” said Miley.
“They give false information about how teenagers act,” said Cherlyn.
“I just think that sometimes writers are lazy and stereotype teachers and students. For example, the “mean athletes” or “clueless teachers.” People are individuals with unique personalities and people should be portrayed that way. Also, most problems cannot be perfectly resolved in an hour,” said Ms.Miller.
Finally, let’s get to some recommendations people have for teen drama shows. “I would recommend Beverly Hills 90210 and My So-Called Life. Oh…and Glee! That is another good one,” said Ms.Miller.
“I would recommend people watch On My Block and 13 Reasons Why,” said Cherlyn.
Do you think teen dramas are accurate to real teen life? What are some of your favorite shows?
Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments!