Rhetorical Analysis “Stop Bullying Now”

Audience and purpose - Audience : Individuals concerned about the rising suicide rates caused by bullying. As well as bullies and victims of this issue. -Purpose : The author wishes to raise awareness on the growing issue of bullying by displaying uncomfortable images that shock the public.

Audience -Students/bystanders to make them aware of suicidal possibilities amongst bullied teenagers -Done with the slogan: “Words have consequences” -Not: older adults, children -Who viewed it? Individuals who browse through YouTube and maybe in the classroom setting -Why? It is not a sponsored PSA.

This is Why it Matters ,000 students who encounter bullying attempt suicide each year. - It is a growing issue across the country. - Bullying is not something to be taken lightly. - Informing the bullies of the consequences of behavior can potentially save lives

Main Claim WORDS HAVE CONSEQUENCES

However! -- It says “stopbullyingnow.com” at the end making the viewer feel it is supported or sponsered by it; however, it is not. It is misleading but not completely false because it simply says “stopbullyingnow.com” at the end. Not once does it claim to be sponsored. The audience just assumes it is since it is a bullying PSA.

Tactics -Expectations: a simple and entertaining P.S.A, with a simple and clear message -Rhetorical Appeals: Takes place in a realistic school setting, characters are teenage girls, use of cellphones suggests modern times

Appeal to Ethos -It uses sophisticated cinematography. -The school setting is very realistic and significant. -Sallow appearance of the girl bullied emphasizes the “hurt” she is going through. - The vibe carried throughout the video establishes credibility.

Appeal to Pathos -Girl that commits suicide Shocking, disturbing, dramatic -Cell phone text message (Technology is a large part of a teenager’s life) - A hyperbolic real life scenario is depicted.

Appeal to Logos - It provides a caption that “states a fact.” -The contrast between the healthy girls and the pre-suicidal teenager provokes the viewer.

Style/ Tone - The tone reflected by the “mean girls” is condescending, callous, and haughty. - The setting is informal and deals most likely with high school students. -The calm initial tone takes a turn for the worse

Target Audience -The video makes the audience reflect and rethink the severity of bullying. -Bullies might have been offended because the video establishes how their actions may lead to suicide.

Over All - Pathos is the most prominent appeal. It is evident through background music as well as in the overarching theme and content. -Most instances of suicide attempt can be prevented