The War On Emo Essay Example

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Observers may marvel at the sight of those exceptionally dark jeans and wonder how their wearer managed to don them. Unfortunately, many people mistakenly associate the term "emo" with self-destructive teenagers. However, it's crucial to differentiate between individuals who follow emo fashion and those who engage in self-injury. Emo fashion enthusiasts appreciate black clothing and tend to use an excessive amount of eyeliner, while self-harmers are people who inflict harm on themselves. Although it is conceivable for someone to fall into both categories, it is incorrect to assume that wearing more black than usual makes a person a self-harmer. Sands argues that the internet has become a platform for "emo" individuals who glorify self-harm through numerous web pages dedicated to this issue.

While it is true that websites featuring self-injury exist, it is unreasonable to suggest that every individual who identifies as emo participates in and competes with others regarding such behavior. Although some adolescents do discuss their self-inflicted injuries with peers online, Ms. Sands wrongly assumes that all teenagers who dress in all black also engage in self-harm.

A young girl I recently spoke to exemplifies the idea that all self-harming teens are emo, as discussed by Sand. Despite her black straightened hair, heavily mascara-ed eye covered by a fringe, lack of color and essential converse, the girl does not possess knife scars on her arms and seems content. She claims to be happy and states she has never contemplated self-harm. It appears her 'emo' fashion sense is linked to fashion rather than depression, which contradicts Sand's theory of all self-harming teens being emo.

Although some individuals who follow the 'emo' fashion may engage in self-harm,

it is unfair to assume that all self-harmers are emo. Unfortunately, the two groups have been incorrectly associated, leading uninformed reporters to attack both communities. Sands argues that the fashion and music industries encourage the emo culture. While it may be true for fashion outlets like 'Hot Topic,' which sell clothing with phrases like "Cheer up emo kid," it is incorrect to suggest that these industries promote self-harm, which is what Sands implies when citing bands like Green Day and My Chemical Romance.

The emo fashion is supported by the fashion industry, but there is no encouragement for self-injury. The music industry, which includes the bands mentioned in Sarah Sands' article, often opposes teens' self-harming. My Chemical Romance, in particular, speaks out against it. Lead singer Gerard Way stated that they do not promote self-harm, but encourage kids to find alternative ways to release their frustrations.

At concerts, the band urges their audience to seek help if they are struggling with depression. A mother expressed anger towards an article that criticized these bands, stating that they offer a space for teenagers to discuss their emotions and provide a sense of community that is often lacking in daily life.

It is ridiculous for Sands to suggest that the music industry promotes self-injury, as it demonstrates a lack of research. The assumption that all fans of these bands dress in an emo style and therefore engage in self-harm or are encouraged by the bands to do so is likely an error. It appears that there is widespread confusion about what the term 'emo' means, with some viewing it as an excessively emotional individual and others as a black-clad

teenager who self-harms, while yet others see it simply as a fashion trend.

Despite online communities dedicated to discussing self-injury among emos, it is incorrect to assume that all members of this subculture engage in such behavior. Sarah Sands' article perpetuates this misconception. While clothing retailers may promote emo fashion, there is no evidence that the industry encourages self-harm or equates depression with this style. Criticizing teenagers who identify as emo only reinforces negative stereotypes and hinders their ability to express their emotions freely.

Assisting individuals who self-harm is crucial, and it involves providing support rather than isolation or attack. Instead of unfairly targeting those who appear different, our focus should be on aiding and helping those in need. We must not leave them during this critical time if their self-harm is a plea for help.