Dr Breen describes the therapeutic use of soap operas in a boy with autistic-spectrum disorders (Psychiatric Bulletin, February 2007, 31, ). The use of soap operas is already widespread in old age psychiatry as a tool for informal assessment of cognition. Personally, I cannot bear their blend of stereotypical characters, exaggerated emotions and simplistic conflict, yet feel duty bound to monitor plot lines as a matter of professional obligation. Now it seems our colleagues in child and adolescent psychiatry may become similarly compelled to watch these grinding pantomimes in the name of enhancing the social intelligence of their flock. Is now the time to call for such activities to be formally incorporated into our job plans?