Shane Dawson’s investigative documentary series about Jake Paul has stirred up drama across social media platforms in ways that countless numbers of other influencers and media outlets have attempted. And although it may be interesting to many viewers to watch, a lot of the information and topics covered in these videos are disappointing.

    A lot of the series discusses the rumors that Paul, a Youtuber and social media story followed by millions, is a sociopath. Shortly after his (also famous) brother posted a video poking fun at a dead body in Japan’s Suicide Forest, TMZ posted a video where Paul is rapping, saying the N-word multiple times. Paul also faced harsh criticism from neighbors of his “Team 10” house, his neighbors frustrated with noise and reporting that Paul constantly is pulling stunts like burning a pile of furniture in his pool. However, the idea that this and Paul’s lack of concern for his “haters” making him a sociopath is really offensive and overdramatic.

    As far as anyone is concerned, Paul might be a “sociopath” by Dawson’s terms (showing a lack of empathy). But being a sociopath is a more harmful version of Antisocial Personality Disorder, and using mental health as a platform to get more views and responses is really unprofessional for Dawson, whose normal videos are actually pretty entertaining. Also, Dawson uses a therapist undercover when visiting Paul’s house, which sets a really bad example for many of his younger viewers. People with serious health issues should not be tricked into a diagnosis, and if Dawson (or anyone) was really that concerned about Paul’s mental health, they would not have tried to uncover their secrets without Paul noticing.

    Additionally, Dawson’s labeling of Paul as a sociopath before even meeting him shows the effects of the kind of rumors Dawson is perpetuating by releasing this series. That being said, Dawson’s editing style and interviews were very persuasive and almost had the effect of sympathy for this overprivileged man before Dawson again resorted to almost making excuses for him. Alleged Antisocial Personality Disorder should not excuse racism and being a bad influence on Paul’s followers, who are mostly in their younger teens. Although Dawson succeeded in obtaining tons of clicks, that by no means should imply that this series is a good idea or that the topics it covers are important or even relevant: so, unless you have four hours to kill, just stick to Dawson’s regular content, and avoid unnecessary drama.