Maltese tele-series and PSD. Do they portray the same values?

Abstract

The focus of this study is on values. The arguments hold that some values have changed, as did adolescents' behaviours. The values Respect, Responsibility, and Love, are analysed in this dissertation. The National Minimum Curriculum (1999) maintains that these three values are integral and fundamental for life. The question here is what or who is responsible for such a change in values? Throughout the inquiry, many factors were identified, including education and the media. The researchers feel that today's media influences the personal and the social life of any individual. PSD, on the other hand, aims to help students deal with their personal and social life issues. For the purpose of this study, only one Maltese tele-series was chosen since this offered a number of values which this study aims to explore. This dissertation is a philosophical debate which analyses the kind of values promoted and enhanced through PSD and its syllabus, in comparison with those projected and portrayed in 'Deċeduti' (The Deceased); the most quoted Maltese tele-series in 2011. This philosophical inquiry has brought forward the realisation that PSD portrays an 'altruistic type' of love, respect for others and the importance of responsibility whereas 'Deċeduti' promotes the 'self-centred' type of love and respect for the self.