Question

Watch a prime-time television program and make notes on the role played in the story by alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, or other psychoactive drugs.

Think about what you saw and write a page describing the messages the show gave viewers about drugs.

Did it directly or indirectly approve or disapprove of drug use?

Did it lead viewers to expect particular effects from particular drugs?

Conclude by considering what effects these drug-related messages might have on viewers, especially young children.

Answer 1

In the ShowTime drama-comedy, Shameless, alcohol and drug use is portrayed in almost every episode. While in most cases the effects of alcohol and drug use and its destructive effects on the individuals’ lives are enacted in a negative way, there are also instances where the lead charters who do not necessarily have a dependence on these substances tend to use it recreationally. Moreover, the show also depicts the genetic aspect of addiction and how the children of two addicts have passed on the trait to their children. In the present season 8, Lip Gallagher is in recovery from his alcohol addiction and is going to AA meetings as well. While there are several instances in the show where substance abuse is portrayed in a jest and adds comedic elements to the story, there is also light shed on the importance of intervention for substance abuse. It also displays on substance use can further highten the symptoms of mental illness.