Designed to encourage soul-searching and dialogue about the terrifying phenomenon of gun violence in American schools, this short documentary features several adult and student interviewees who offer opinions and insights about the epidemic. Teachers, counselors, and kids weigh in, suggesting that the easy availability of guns is a primary factor in school shootings, along with the more obvious social contributors, such as bullying. But there is also a helpful overview about the psychology of adolescence, how the “job” of teens is to develop some autonomy from parents and join a community of peers in preparation for adulthood. If this developmental stage is thwarted, then a sense of isolation can result; bringing a gun to school may create a feeling of compensatory empowerment. Related issues—should teachers carry guns on campus?—are also addressed, but most of the kids here are skeptical that a straightforward solution to the crisis will be found. School shootings have been around at least since 1920, but the rate has dramatically accelerated in recent years. A solid entry in the fine Real Life Teens youth guidance series, this is recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (T. Keogh)
Real Life Teens: Guns at School
(2013) 20 min. DVD: $64.95. DRA. TMW Media Group. PPR. Volume 30, Issue 2
Real Life Teens: Guns at School
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: