Topic > Teen films and the transition from adolescence to adulthood

Teen films emerged in popular culture, developing into a full-fledged genre starting in the 1950s, cinematically representing to the world the crucial transition and bumpy from adolescence to adulthood. Finding its literary equivalent in the coming-of-age novel, teen films appeal not only to an exclusive audience of teenagers but also to adults who have had similar coming-of-age experiences. Authors usually highlight the struggles of a young person searching for their place in society and the world. In this genre one can distinctly trace the development and maturity of characterization from childhood to adulthood, often grappling with the cruel adversities of life and the challenge of belonging. The unique influence of teen films both impacts and reflects popular culture, while raising awareness of social issues affecting teens such as self-esteem, suicide, anorexia/bulimia, drugs and sexually transmitted diseases. At the same time, teen films tend to glorify resistance to authority, bacchanalian parties, liberated sexuality, and power struggles between equals. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The rise of this subculture has pushed organizations to censor material shown in order to control populations of young people who become espouse the values ​​that are projected in films. Examining the life of the American teenager, it is concluded that the adolescent film often idealizes this coming of age where the adolescent protagonist often seeks acceptance in the family and school spheres. As a result of the massive popularity of teen movies, related companies have been quick to capitalize on food, fashion, and music advertising. One article, "Mean Girls-Realities of Relational Aggression" focuses on the types of aggression or bullying that teen movies often depict. Two types of relational attitudes reign among females: proactive and reactive aggression. Characteristics of relational aggression include active exclusion, intimidation and manipulation, while the ulterior motives of this behavior are usually attributed to fear of isolation, power struggle, desire for popularity and insecurity. Usually in the school environment several standard characters emerge and are classified according to the hierarchy of social power and self-esteem such as the queen, the sidekick, the gossip, the floater, the conflicted spectator, the wannabe and the target. These characters struggle in one way or another to be accepted, to dominate a group or to get along with the crowd.