Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that many of the unique cultural traditions examined in this documentary series -- including gender transformation, painful and often life-threatening initiation rituals, and physical mutilation -- will seem bizarre or extreme from a mainstream American point of view. Since the topics are approached from a thoughtful, educational perspective, mature teens should be able to handle the show, but its graphic imagery and complex subject matter could upset or disturb younger or more sensitive kids.

Sexual Content

Some episodes discuss sexuality (including sexual maturity and transgender issues) and courting practices. But these discussions are within the context of understanding a specific culture or ritual and aren't salacious in nature. One episode shows young girls' breasts being mutilated to prevent promiscuity.

Violence

Some of the rituals shown appear violent by traditional Western standards, including beating young men as a rite of passage into adulthood, hanging people by the skin with hooks, and mutilating young girls' breasts.

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

The series examines different cultural practices around the world. It challenges people's perceptions of what "normal" means. People from various racial, ethnic, and other groups from all over the globe are featured (including some who are transgendered).

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Occasional drinking and smoking visible in the background, but it's not central to the show.