Priyanka Tiwari
Share
In the third episode of Netflix’s limited series Adolescence, child psychologist Erin Doherty faces an emotional outburst from teen Jamie (played by Owen Cooper), who screams, “Do you like me?” This emotional climax captures the heart of the series—youth seeking validation in a distorted online world.
Since its debut two weeks ago, the UK-based drama has reached over 24.3 million viewing hours, resonating with global audiences. Unlike typical thrillers, Adolescence is a raw emotional narrative about family breakdown, digital indoctrination, and teenage vulnerability.
Opening with Crime, Shifting to Trauma
The series starts as a police procedural, with Jamie arrested for murdering a female classmate. CCTV footage reveals a sudden, violent outburst that shocks his father (Stephen Graham). As the case unfolds, the focus shifts to how teens communicate in digital language—through emojis, likes, and anonymous posts—making it nearly impossible for adults to understand or intervene.
Unpacking Online Radicalization and Misogyny
The third episode delves deeper into Jamie’s digital descent. Online forums promoting toxic masculinity, including references to the ‘manosphere,’ Andrew Tate, and ‘Incel’ ideology, dominate Jamie’s screen time. The psychologist tries to break through his conditioned thinking, revealing how dangerous unchecked digital exposure can become.
Themes of dehumanizing women, warped male entitlement, and the glorification of aggression reflect real-life issues. Stephen Graham, co-creator of the show, drew inspiration from increasing reports of teen violence against women in Britain.
Global Political Relevance and Viewer Impact
The show's release aligns with broader political conversations, including statements from the British Prime Minister on addressing systemic misogyny. Adolescence gains credibility as it echoes real-world concerns. It highlights the link between online isolation and deteriorating social values among youth, particularly young men.
Missed Signs and Parental Reflection
In the final episode, Jamie’s parents reflect on his emotional detachment and how certain actions—like reacting negatively to his sports failures—may have impacted his confidence. Their biggest regret: allowing him to isolate with unsupervised internet access, thinking he was safe.
This raises a critical question for today’s parents—how much screen time is too much?
Why ‘Adolescence’ Strikes a Chord
Technically unique, each episode is filmed in a single uninterrupted take, keeping viewers immersed. The story’s realism, especially in depicting teen isolation and digital dependency, hits close to home. Today’s education systems rely heavily on screen-based communication, giving rise to prolonged, unsupervised screen time.
As children grow, their identities often shift into digital realms, where trolling, reckless behavior, and exposure to harmful ideologies are common. The series highlights how parents often remain unaware of what their children are consuming online.
The Call for Balanced Digital Parenting
Adolescence isn’t just a series—it’s a wake-up call. It underlines the need for modern parenting to extend beyond discipline or affection. Active involvement, honest conversations, and digital literacy are crucial. Most importantly, it emphasizes the need for balance—between protection and freedom, between online engagement and real-life bonding.
‘Adolescence’ is now streaming on Netflix.
Read More: Tamil Actress Shruthi Narayanan at the Centre of Controversy Over Alleged Casting Couch Video
_1992870532_100x75.jpg)
