Episode #3: What is a Theme?

"Can you elaborate on how to find the theme of a story? My friend says that theme cannot be prejudice, betrayal, innocence, etc. because those are just topics. She says that theme is what the author believes about the topic. For example, instead of saying trust is the theme, children should be taught to elaborate and say, "A person needs to learn how to trust themselves and others." Is this really important or is it just a different method of teaching theme? This is her reference for her belief: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9H6GCe7hmmA Thank you." -Rebecca