The emo subculture is one of the most popular among teenagers aged 13-17. Black and pink colors in clothes, extravagant makeup, aestheticization of death — a lot of this worries parents. Not so long ago, the Ministry of Education of the Nizhny Novgorod Region issued a circular obliging teachers to fight against manifestations of a “dangerous” and “suicidal” emo culture. How justified are these fears and precautions?
“Emo behavior is typical for teenagers: these are sudden mood swings, and self-destructive behavior, which is expressed in cuts, piercings of the eyebrows or the navel. It is common for teenagers to express dissatisfaction with their body (and piercing is an important indicator of this attitude). But emo people declare this very actively and willingly share their experience: “How many times have you cut your veins?” Of course, most teenagers are included in this movement just like that, for the company, so as not to fall out of the team. However, impulsive, spontaneous children, such games can injure and even push to suicide. In addition, emo culture encourages increased sensitivity. Here it is not a shame to fight in hysterics, to laugh violently or sob. Such emotional licentiousness slows down the process of growing up, because growing up means learning to restrain yourself, control your feelings. Try to talk with your child about his hobby calmly, without long lectures and without judging him. You can express doubt about external manifestations — the color of hair or clothes, but not the state of mind of a teenager. Be attentive to his behavior. Cuts on the hands, frequent tantrums, loss of interest in previous activities — all this is a reason to turn to a psychologist. If this is not possible, try to captivate your son or daughter with any bright, intense activity, be it creativity, travel or sports, where the outburst of emotions is safe and constructive.