Italian teacher pushes use of 'Temptation Island' in schools to teach toxic relationships

Enrico Galiano, a literature teacher and writer in Friuli, Italy, has suggested that the reality‑TV show *Temptation Island* be used as classroom material to help students recognise toxic relationship dynamics. He argues that the programme’s exaggerated portrayal of control, manipulation and emotional blackmail can serve as a clear, relatable example for young people.

Galiano notes that the show attracts around four million viewers per episode and enjoys a share of over 55 percent among 15‑ to 19‑year‑olds. He says, “Premere pausa e chiedere: cosa sta succedendo qui?” and adds, “Questa scena, fermata al momento giusto e spiegata bene, varrebbe più di dieci slide sulle relazioni tossiche.” The proposal aims to turn a popular entertainment format into a tool for critical discussion within Italy’s sex‑affective education curriculum.

The idea has sparked debate over whether such “trash” television can be appropriated for educational purposes without legitimising it, highlighting broader discussions about media literacy and the role of schools in addressing relationship violence.