Parents' Guide to

Worst-Case Scenario

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Urban survival series is both dramatic and educational.

TV Discovery Channel Reality TV 2010
Worst-Case Scenario Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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age 7+

Based on 1 parent review

MrBoo
MrBoo Parent
July 18, 2010
age 7+
1111

This title has:

Too much swearing
Great role models
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

WORST-CASE SCENARIO is an educational reality show that offers step-by-step instructions how to survive life-threatening situations in urban environments. Hosted by survivalist Bear Grylls, the series features dramatic re-creations of car explosions, boating accidents, and other potentially fatal situations to demonstrate the actions that people should take to survive them. Trivia questions about how to get out of some non-fatal situations (like separating fingers after accidentally gluing them together) are also answered. The show also allows viewers to see the real dangers the host and crew face when staging the dramatic re-creations at the end of the program.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1):
Kids say (1):

The series uses spectacular images of accidents, collisions, and other treacherous situations to create teachable moments designed to help people survive unexpected disasters and/or violent events. Grylls offers explanations of the specific hazards associated with each event, and offers practical advice about what to do and what to avoid when trying to help themselves and/or other people. Also helpful is the repetition of key steps at the end of each demonstration.



There's a lot to be learned here, but younger and/or more sensitive viewers may find some of these scenes a bit frightening. But for those who can handle it, the show offers a wealth of practical information designed to save lives. And no matter what your idea of a worst-case scenario is, the show's message about avoiding panic, being prepared, and using common sense whenever confronted with a bad situation will be helpful in any situation.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about what to do when confronted with a worst-case scenario. How can some of these scenarios be avoided? Does your family have an emergency plan for specific situations, like a house fire or an earthquake? Parents: How can you discuss some of these things with your kids without frightening them? Kids: Can you think of some scenarios that you think your family needs to talk more about in order to feel more prepared for it?

  • What kind of training does Grylls have that makes it safe for him to re-create these dangerous events? Does watching the show make you feel like copying what you see? What aspects of the re-creations do you think happen offscreen?

TV Details

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