Episode 37: Bullying and Billy Hargrove in Stranger Things
Ryan challenges Mike with a news story about mystics and psychics. A larger percentage of people are seeking out this kind of "Magick" than are going to therapy or to a psychiatrist. Mike offers that if it finds the person peace or healing, then he has no problem with it, but Ryan argues that some people are being swindled for money and should go the route that has science to back it up.
Some things we learn about bullying from Stranger Things
The definition of bullying
How to spot a bully
How a bully is made
How to treat a bully
The motives of a bully
What bullying does to others emotionally
Science finds literal brain changes is bullying victims
Movie Synopsis
This week we look at the character Billy Hargrove in Netflix's stranger things. Billy moves to Indiana, and isn't so happy with his new hometown. Through the course of the series we see Billy make fun of, attack, threaten and demean the kids around him. After his body is taken over by the Mind Flayer in season 3, we find out that Billy was abused as a child and is broken.
Bullying is often thought of as a normal part of growing up and going to school. Tell that to a victim of bullying. Now, in the age of social media, bullying is the worst it's ever been, with kids unable to escape the threats from their classmates.
Episode Diagnosis
Ryan:
4.5 of 5 Eggo Waffles -- for the portrayal of bullying in season 2 -- 2 of 5 Eggo Waffles for the portrayal of bullying in season 3
Mike:
5 of 5 Mike Forgots -- So good. Fun. Creepy. Nostalgic. Excellent writing. Suspenseful
Pop Psych 101 is a weekly mental health podcast hosted by Therapist, Ryan Engelstad, and advocate, Mike Graham. They analyze the portrayal of mental health in pop culture and discuss the accuracy, for better or worse.