Parents' Guide to Scrubs

TV ABC , Syndicated Comedy 2001
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Common Sense Media Review

By Betsy Wallace , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Goofy medical comedy with heart; for older teens.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 13+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 12+

Based on 8 parent reviews

age 13+

Based on 40 kid reviews

Kids say this show is a fun and hilarious mix of medical comedy and drama that resonates with teens and adults, although it is deemed inappropriate for younger viewers due to its frequent sexual innuendos and some explicit content. Many appreciate its unique storytelling, character depth, and ability to handle serious topics while still being entertaining, making it a recommended watch for audiences aged 13 and above.

  • fun comedy
  • suitable for teens
  • sexual innuendos
  • character depth
  • not for kids
Summarized with AI

What's the Story?

The young interns of Sacred Heart may be well on their way to becoming fine doctors, but right now they're still learning the ropes. Patients present one new challenge after another, and as "newbies," the interns get dumped on constantly by senior physicians and even the janitor. SCRUBS is grounded in the experiences of Dr. John Dorian (J.D., played by Zach Braff), a still-somewhat-innocent and awkward physician out to impress his elders and become a great doctor. He doesn't always succeed in getting the approval and validation he craves, but in his active fantasy life he's godlike.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 8 ):
Kids say ( 40 ):

Episodes mainly focus on situations at the hospital, both funny and serious, and as the series has progressed, the personal lives of J.D.'s friends and colleagues have come more into play -- there's a bit more General Hospital in the show now than when it first premiered as an offbeat and highly original comedy. But the writing and acting are still top-notch. Scrubs is not necessarily one for the kids, but one parents may like to record and watch by themselves.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how the characters on Scrubs cope with their highly stressful jobs, make tough decisions, and deal with life-and-death situations.

  • Is humor a realistic reaction to sickness and death? Do you think the work environment at the hospital is realistic?

  • Would you expect your supervisors to treat you the way J.D. is treated? What would you do if they did?

  • How do the characters on Scrubs demonstrate compassion and teamwork? Why are those important character strengths?

TV Details

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