Last Updated on June 9, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg
The UK drama series Adolescence on Netflix has been a huge talking point in recent weeks as the show dramatically highlights the many ongoing struggles in UK schools, most notably how “child-on-child” abuse is on the rise.
The show has cast a light on some rather disturbing and awful happenings that occurred in real life in recent years.
This post will explore the show and what important lessons must be learned from it.
Adolescence is a British mini-series that premiered on Netflix on March 13th, created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, the latter of whom also features.
The story begins with the arrest of 13-year-old Jamie Miller for the murder of female classmate Katie Leonard.
Police detectives investigate the crime, trying to understand the motive behind his actions and the events that transpired.
The series shockingly highlights the impact of dangerous online subcultures, such as incel communities and the “Manosphere” on young people’s perceptions of gender and relationships.
It also examines the role of social media in teenagers' lives, particularly the prevalence of cyberbullying and the influence of online ideologies.
The show further explores the emotional aftermath for Jamie’s family as they grapple with the consequences of his actions and the reaction from the local community.
Adolescence delves into the psychological factors that may have contributed to Jamie's behavior, including feelings of isolation, anger, and exposure to toxic online narratives.
For adults, the show underscores the reality that children’s lives today are shaped by online interactions.
It highlights the dangers of online radicalization and the influence of harmful ideologies on impressionable young minds.
This stresses the importance of adults being more aware of the digital spaces their children engage with.
The series also reveals how some forms of online abuse have become increasingly normalized among young people.
This desensitization can contribute to a worrying rise in harmful behaviors that are often overlooked or misunderstood by adults.
Adolescence has sparked critical conversations in the UK that will hopefully lead to positive change.
If you know a child or someone who has suffered abuse, you should always speak to a specialist abuse solicitor about making an abuse claim.
Adults must create a safe, open environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences.
Encouraging conversations about digital safety, cyberbullying, and mental health is crucial.
Parents should also set reasonable screen time limits, monitor digital activity, and promote offline hobbies and interests to maintain a healthy balance.
Adolescence is more than a gripping drama — it’s a timely and necessary reflection of the dangers young people face in a hyper-connected digital world.
The show serves as a powerful wake-up call for parents, educators, and communities to become more proactive in safeguarding children's mental health and online environments.
By staying informed, fostering open communication, and taking preventive action, we can better protect the next generation from the unseen dangers of the digital age.
