Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Girls wins points for taking an honest approach to the comedies and tragedies of the life of a particular type of twentysomething woman, but the fact that it doesn't shy away from graphic bedroom (or living room) rendezvous, has plenty of drinking and some drug use, and is marked by frequent salty language ("f--k," "s--t," "bitch," etc.) makes it problematic for teens. Grown-ups will relish creator/writer/star Lena Dunham's portrayal of a reluctantly independent college grad facing the harsh realities of life with her parents' abrupt decision to pull her lifestyle funding. The show also turns a critical eye to the women's friendships as well as their extracurricular relationships (both good and bad) with men. The characters aren't always impressive role models, and Hannah's sense of entitlement in particular can raise the ire of some viewers, but all of this plays a role in a refreshingly frank story of finding one's self. The show's mature content makes this an iffy choice even for older teens, but if you do watch with them, the content is sure to open the door to meaningful conversations about relationships, careers, and long-term financial plans.

Sexual Content

Graphic scenes of couples undressing and engaging in casual sex. Nudity includes views of butts during the act. There are references to birth control (in one instance, a woman encourages her partner to use a condom, but since she's facing away from him, she's not quite sure he really does), unplanned pregnancy, and using sex as a means of stress relief. Two female friends are shown sleeping in the same bed and sharing a bathtub (though one is robed).

Violence

Not applicable.

Language

Everything goes here: "f--k," "s--t," "Jesus Christ," "boobs," "bitch," and body references like "vagina."

Social Behavior

Although the characters in this series sometimes engage in some unflattering behavior, their devotion to each other is a happy consequence of the trials they face. The plot raises some grown-up issues like unplanned pregnancy, virginity, financial uncertainty, and mistaking sexual relationships for emotional ones, but it does so in a thoughtful manner that encourages discussion.

Consumerism

References to Facebook and other timely tools of social relationships as well as nods to Sex and the City from a character who's enthralled with the show and its four stars.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Most of the characters drink, and, to a lesser extent engage in drug use as well, sometimes with disastrous consequences for the user.