Are there ethical considerations creators should keep in mind when trying to elicit specific reactions from their audience?

Yes, ethical considerations are crucial. Creators should be mindful of the potential impact of their work, especially when depicting sensitive themes like violence, trauma, or discrimination. While aiming to elicit strong reactions, creators should avoid exploiting real-world suffering for cheap shock value or perpetuating harmful stereotypes. The intent should generally be to provoke thought, empathy, or catharsis, not to cause gratuitous distress without narrative purpose. Transparency about content warnings can be an ethical practice, allowing readers to make informed choices. Ultimately, respecting the audience's emotional well-being while still pushing creative boundaries is a key ethical balance.