Why Content Warnings Matter: A Thoughtful Approach to Reader Well-Being
Are trigger warnings necessary? It depends.
I’ve written three bestselling books about being a childhood sexual abuse survivor: Broken Pieces, Broken Places, and Broken People. I made the choice not to go into explicit or graphic detail about the abuse itself to avoid activating readers, with minor exceptions that are clearly marked.
That’s not to say I don’t discuss these difficult topics; while writing each book, I incorporated everything and selectively included what worked without those explicitly graphic details. And yes, I offered trigger warnings.
When Should You Include a Disclaimer?
Books have the power to move, challenge, and heal, but they can also evoke difficult emotions. Including a content disclaimer can extend care and consideration to your readers and ensure they can engage with your story safely and comfortably.
You may want to include a disclaimer if:
Your book contains vivid or detailed depictions of experiences that could be distressing, such as violence, abuse, sexual assault, self-harm, or suicide.
Your story explores intense emotional themes that some readers might find triggering, like trauma, grief, or mental health struggles.
Your book is intended for younger audiences but includes mature or complex topics that may require guidance.
Your story touches on culturally sensitive issues, racial trauma, or other deeply personal subjects that deserve careful handling and awareness.
Some authors worry that content warnings might reveal key plot points. If that’s a concern, you can use a more general disclaimer, such as:
This book contains mature themes and may not be suitable for all readers. A detailed content warning can be found at [author’s website].
What is the Main Reason To Include a Content Disclaimer/Trigger warning?
At its core, providing a content warning is an act of kindness and respect. It recognizes that literature can evoke strong emotions, allowing readers to approach your work in a way that honors their experiences and well-being.
Book disclaimers for sensitive content, often called content disclaimers or trigger warnings, are essential in publishing. They help readers make informed choices about their reading experience and ensure they are not blindsided by distressing themes that could negatively impact their mental or emotional well-being.
You can also consider hiring ‘sensitivity readers’ to help you address any potential triggering content. Discover more here.
Want more specific examples? Take a look here ⬇️
Unleashing the Healing Power of Empathy Through Storytelling
Writing about traumatic events can be a challenging yet powerful endeavor. I’ve written three memoir and poetry books about being a childhood sexual abuse survivor. BadRedhead Media, LLC’s All Things Book Marketing! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or …
Why Include a Content Disclaimer?
Respect for Readers' Well-Being: Some topics, such as sexual violence, suicide, self-harm, or abuse, can be profoundly triggering for readers who have experienced trauma. A content warning allows them to prepare emotionally or decide whether they want to engage with the material at all.
Building Trust with Your Audience: Offering a disclaimer shows that you respect your readers and their experiences. It fosters a sense of care and transparency, strengthening the connection between the author and the audience.
Encouraging Inclusivity and Accessibility: Some readers, particularly those in mental health recovery, may need to avoid specific topics for their well-being. Providing a warning allows them to participate in literary spaces without undue distress.
Avoiding Harm: While no book can cater to every reader’s sensitivity, an unexpected encounter with distressing content can be harmful. Warnings empower readers to engage with complex subjects at their own pace.
Photo by Loren Cutler on Unsplash
When Should You Include a Disclaimer?
If your book contains graphic or explicit depictions of potentially distressing material.
If the themes of your book deal heavily with issues such as abuse, sexual violence, self-harm, suicide, or extreme violence.
If your book is intended for younger readers and includes mature content.
If there are culturally sensitive topics, racial trauma, or other themes that might require thoughtful handling.
How to Include a Disclaimer?
Before the Story Begins
Place a brief disclaimer on the copyright page or in a foreword.
Example: This book contains discussions of self-harm and suicide. Reader discretion is advised.
At the End of the Book Blurb or Description
If appropriate, a brief note in the book description can help readers decide if the content is right for them.
Example: Content Warning: This novel includes depictions of domestic violence and PTSD.
On Your Author Website
Some authors prefer to keep content warnings out of the book but list them on their website under a dedicated “Content Warnings” section.
In the Introduction or Author’s Note
If the book deals with difficult themes in a nuanced way, the author may choose to explain why they included certain content.
Example: This book explores themes of grief and loss, including a character’s struggle with depression. My intention is to portray these experiences with care and honesty.
Balancing Warnings Without Spoilers
Some authors worry that content warnings might give away key plot points. In these cases, a more general disclaimer might be best:
Example: This book contains mature themes and may not be suitable for all readers. A detailed content warning can be found at [author’s website].
Ultimately, including a disclaimer is an act of empathy. It acknowledges that literature can be powerful and deeply affecting and allows readers to engage with stories in ways that feel safe and mindful.
The Ongoing Discussion About Trigger Warnings
Not everyone agrees that trigger warnings are necessary. “We’re all adults! Readers can just put the book down! What a stupid idea.”
I’ve heard it all. You have to make that decision for yourself. If your book contains graphic content, adding a warning is a consideration to discuss with your book team; or, if you’re self-published like me, talk with yourself or a trusted colleague.
This quote from sensitivity readers Georgina Kamsika explains it best:
“Creating characters that reflect the world’s diversity is important for writers and readers. However, it’s essential to create that representation authentically.
Consider why you’re adding characters different from yourself and how you will feel if you get aspects wrong. Consider asking for feedback to create your best character rather than worrying about possible bad reviews or social media pile-ons.”
Would love to hear your thoughts on content warnings. Yay, nay, or undecided? Let’s chat further!
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Definitely yay ! I like to add CW- but I appreciate your advice on how to add it subtly to prevent plot spoilers & the idea of a ‘sensitivity’ beta reader.
Thanks again Rachel
My debut YA novel had a content warning. Readers need to know before they buy. I once read an adult novel (2 years ago) that did not have a content warning, and when I came upon the triggering sections (for me), I put down the book. It was a DNF for me.