Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that much of Patch Adams takes place in a hospital and includes many emotionally intense scenes involving dying or sick patients. There is also an off-screen murder of one of the lead characters and past sexual abuse is strongly alluded to. Aside from this, the film does have some profanity, and Robin Williams' free-associative humor veers into the occasional off-color sexual reference and innuendo, plus one scene where his naked bottom is exposed.

Sexual Content

Upon receiving his diploma, a student has the back side of his graduation gown open to reveal his naked buttocks. Some jokes include some sexual elements -- like a reference to a penis and a masturbation joke. A visual gag involves the word "cervix."

Violence

An aspiring female doctor strongly hints at sexual abuse as a child; she is later murdered off-screen by a mentally disturbed former patient. A patient is given a realistic toy gun to shoot balloons made to resemble animals found on a safari. A suicidal patient is shown with knife scars up and down his arms.

Language

Occasional profanity includes "s--t," "p---k," and "ass."

Social Behavior

The film shows the importance and beneficial effects of laughter, and the positive results that can emerge when doctors see their patients as more than just their disease. It underscores the need for dignity and understanding when it comes to the sick and vulnerable.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Characters consume alcoholic beverages at a meat packers' convention and act boisterous.