The Mission of the American Association of Suicidology’s volunteer evaluation committee is to review videos in a constructive way so that others have guidance in choosing videos to appropriately meet their needs.
The notes below explain the criteria used in evaluating a particular video.
CONTENT REQUIREMENTS
1. The video clearly advocates suicide prevention.
- The message that suicide is preventable is clearly conveyed.
- A variety of available and helpful resources are mentioned/listed.
2. The information provided is accurate.
- Videos should present information that is current and accurate when discussing the nature & scope of the problem of suicide.
- Information is presented in a logical order.
- Points are made clearly & completely.
PRACTICAL REQUIREMENTS
3. Video and sound quality are high.
- Most viewers are well-experienced video consumers and will respond well only to programs with high quality picture and audio.
- Quality is good, no problems w/ tracking or sound.
- Some technical imperfections, but acceptable overall.
4. The video is designed for classroom or workshop use.
- Presentation of the entire video (or one of its segments) is approximately 30 minutes (or less), timed for an average classroom or workshop presentation.
- Video includes introductions and summaries of previous segments when appropriate.
- Video includes follow-up activities to enhance classroom learning for those who wish to use them.
- If video is designed for use within a SPECIFIC curriculum, it should be noted under “influencing factors” on form.
DEVELOPMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS & CULTURAL APPROPRIATENESS
5. The information is age-appropriate for the intended audience.
- It is designed to hold the interest of audience in its recommended age range.
- Information is understandable and in logical order.
6. The suicide messages are clear and relevant for your audience.
- Realistic consequences of suicidal behavior are represented.
- Scare tactics are avoided.
- Messages are believable.
- The suicide prevention messages are clear and well presented.
7. The video is sensitive to racial, ethnic, religious, and gender differences.
- Style and content are sensitive to different populations.
- The people, situations, and dialogue are reasonably easy with which to identify.
8. Stigmatization of suicide victims, attempters and/or survivors is avoided.
- All individuals are realistically and respectfully depicted.
9. Glamorization of suicide and suicidal behavior is avoided.
- There is little or no depiction, documentation, or dramatization of actual suicidal behavior.
- Video does not inadvertently suggest reasons for killing oneself through focusing on detailed stories of suicides or suicide attempts.
- Individuals sharing personal stories emphasize resources and help-seeking behaviors.
10. Protective factors are promoted.
- The focus is on help-seeking behaviors.
- Skills and connections that are life-affirming are discussed.
- Realistic and effective steps to prevent suicide are illustrated for someone who might be suicidal as well as the “helper.”
POTENTIAL FOR AFFECTING VIEWERS’ SKILLS, ATTITUDES & BEHAVIORS
11. Effective suicide intervention skills are discussed and advocated.
- The video explains how to intervene in suicidal behavior.
- The video outlines clear intervention steps (i.e., listen non-judgmentally, ask directly about suicide, get help).
- The video discusses steps to take to get help for oneself if feeling suicidal.
12. The video emphasizes and models help-seeking behaviors.
- The video demonstrates/ models how to intervene in suicidal behavior.
- Seeking help from a trusted adult or community resources is stressed for youth.
13. Resource suggestions are included.
- Resources ranging from general categories of help to national associations should be mentioned.
14. A variety of presentation techniques are employed.
- The video includes role-playing, interviews, skill modeling and/or other techniques in addition to “expert” speakers.
15. Printed guidelines for effective follow-up activities are included
- Videos can generally be of far greater advantage if guidelines are provided with follow-up activities that challenge and enhance the learning experience for the audience.
Videos
Resources for Reviewers
