How does Melinda's mother respond to Melinda's cutting?

• A. She ignores it
• B. She tells Melinda that suicide is for cowards and leaves a book about it on the back of the toilet for Melinda to read
• C. She takes her to hospital
• D. She apologizes and hugs her

Answer: (B)

Melinda's cutting scene is about how a parent's reaction can deepen or ease a teen's distress. In this moment, her mother responds by labeling suicide as cowardice and by leaving a book about it on the back of the toilet for Melinda to read. That choice shows a judgmental, rhetorical approach aimed at shocking Melinda into seeing suicide as wrong, rather than offering empathy, open conversation, or professional help. It highlights a disconnect between them and the way Melinda feels unseen and isolated. The other possible actions—ignoring it, taking her to a hospital, or apologizing and hugging—would reflect more direct, supportive intervention, which the scene does not present. If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, reaching out to a trusted adult or a professional can make a crucial difference.