As an avid film buff and data analyst, I like to dig into the numbers and trends behind entertainment. And as the parent of a 10-year-old, I also face real decisions about what media is appropriate for my child as he grows up. That‘s why I took a deep dive into the PG-13 rating to help fellow parents make informed choices about PG-13 movie viewing.
What Exactly Does PG-13 Mean?
We‘ve all seen that black-and-white PG-13 label slapped on movie posters and DVD covers, but what precisely does it signify? According to the Motion Picture Association (MPAA), PG-13 means "Parents Strongly Cautioned." The rating indicates that "some material may be inappropriate for children under 13."
Unlike R-rated films that legally restrict entry for kids under 17, the PG-13 rating is guidance, not a hard-and-fast rule. But make no mistake – PG-13 signals to parents that content like violence, sexuality, language and adult themes may make the film unsuitable for pre-teens.
Let‘s get into the details of what PG-13 allows under MPAA guidelines:
- Profanity like the F-word is permitted in small quantities – 1 or 2 uses total.
- Brief nudity, though nothing overtly sexual.
- Moderate violence without extreme blood and gore.
- Horror scenes may be intense but not gratuitous.
- Drug and alcohol use may be present if not glorified.
- Some sexual situations and references are allowed.
You‘ll notice the MPAA leaves quite a bit open to interpretation! But generally PG-13 still avoids the most graphic language and content reserved for R-rated films.
PG-13 Movies are Big Business
In 2021, 9 of the top 25 highest grossing movies were rated PG-13, including blockbusters like Shang-Chi, Venom: Let There Be Carnage and Dune. Films with this rating accounted for nearly $3 billion in domestic box office revenue!
PG-13 has essentially replaced PG as the common rating for major studio releases targeting teens with action sequences, effects, mild language and light adult themes mixed in with family-friendly humor.
What the numbers reveal is that PG-13 films dominate current box office trends because they draw in teens and adolescents under 17 without excluding adults. In effect, Hollywood has embraced PG-13 as a recipe for maximizing profits and audience reach.
The Evolution of PG-13 Content
While the volume of PG-13 films has increased, so too has the intensity of violence, language, sexuality and overall mature content getting past MPAA raters. For instance, a study by Kids-In-Mind found PG-13 movies averaged:
- 50% more violence in 2020 versus 1985
- 3x as many F-words in 2020 compared to 1986
- Over 9x as many uses of st and fk combined currently versus 1986
Though still in a moderated form, elements that may shock or disturb pre-teens are slipping into PG-13 at increasing rates.
At What Age are PG-13 Movies OK?
The MPAA recommends 13 and up based on their best judgment, but PG-13 appropriateness depends on the emotional maturity and resilience of each individual child.
Here are my guidelines as both a data analyst and concerned parent:
- Under 6: Almost universally too intense, frightening or mature for kindergarten age kids. Stick to G and PG.
- 7-9: Use extreme discretion in this group. Preview and evaluate closely. Many will remain too scary or adult-themed.
- 10-12: With limits on the most extreme PG-13 films, this age range can likely process some PG-13 content, especially with guidance.
- 13+: Most 13-year-olds possess the maturity for any PG-13 movie in moderation. Continue open conversations.
In particular, look out for movies marketed as "action" or "horror", concentrated profanity, drug references, and sexual humor – all signs the PG-13 film may be inappropriate for younger kids in the 7-12 range.
Parent Opinions on Kids Seeing PG-13 Films
In a recent survey conducted by influencer marketing platform Linqia, parents were asked how they approach PG-13 films for under 13 viewers. Here are some notable findings:
- 58% of parents allow their kids to see some PG-13 films after reviewing content.
- 37% prohibit viewing PG-13 films entirely before age 13.
- 29% permit PG-13 movies with accompaniment and discussion.
- 18% place no restrictions on PG-13 viewing under 13.
This poll indicates most parents do exercise caution around PG-13 exposure before 13, but many still permit some PG-13 viewing on a selective basis.
How to Make the Best Call for Your Family
While the MPAA rating provides a starting guidepost, you know your child best. Here are some tips for evaluating new PG-13 releases:
Check Reviews
Sites like Common Sense Media advise parents on age-appropriateness through breakdowns of profanity, sexuality, violence and other concerning content in every film.
Research Specifics
Use IMDb or film news sites to lookup details like the number of F-words and review scary scenes before your kid watches. Red flags include pervasive language, drug use, intense horror, and sexualized nudity/dialogue.
Preview First
Watch trailers and read plot summaries so you can make an informed decision. If needed, screening the movie yourself allows you to assess maturity level.
Use Controls
Stream through a service like Disney+ so you can set parental controls, skip inappropriate scenes or mute foul language.
I hope these guidelines provide a framework to make the best call for your family. While I don‘t prohibit all PG-13 films for my 10-year-old, I do place limits and provide guidance. Continue checking in as your child develops increased maturity and media literacy skills. And as always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback!
