Understanding 'Adolescence'
A Resource for Schools and Educators
The recent Netflix drama series Adolescence has gathered significant attention for its poignant exploration of pressing issues affecting today’s youth. As educators, it’s crucial to understand the themes presented in this series to effectively address and support students navigating similar challenges.
Series Overview
Adolescence is a four-part British crime drama that delves into the life of 13-year-old who is accused of murdering a female classmate. The narrative unfolds offering an immersive experience into the complexities of adolescence, family dynamics, and societal influences.
Key Themes Relevant to Education
- Impact of Social Media and Online Subcultures: How online platforms can expose young individuals to harmful ideologies, such as incel culture and misogyny.
- Mental Health and Adolescent Development: The importance of mental health support during formative years.
- Family and Community Dynamics: Insights into the familial and community factors that can influence a teenager’s behaviour and well-being.
Educational Implications
Requirement for professional discussion in relation to toxic masculinity and InCel.
- Digital Literacy Education: A comprehensive digital curriculum to equip students with the skills to navigate online spaces responsibly and recognise harmful content.
- Mental Health Resources: Establishing robust mental health support systems within school to ensure early identification and intervention for students facing psychological challenges.
- Parental and Community Engagement: Fostering strong partnerships with parents and the wider community, to facilitate a supportive network that reinforces positive development and addresses external influences.
What we need to know and look out for!
Changes in Behaviour and Mood:
- Withdrawal or Isolation
- Outbursts or Irritability
- Decline in Academic Performance
- Sudden Changes in Appearance or Interests
- Use of Concerning Language or Jargon
- Obsession with Online Communities
- Secretive Online Activity
- New or Problematic Friend Groups
- Bullying or Victimisation
- Avoidance of Certain Spaces or Peers
Troubling Statements or Ideologies:
- Misogynistic or Sexist Remarks
- Expressions of Hopelessness or Helplessness
- Fascination with Violence or Revenge
- Increased Anxiety or Paranoia
- Self-Harm Indicators
What we can do!
- Facilitate Open Dialogues: Create safe spaces for students to discuss topics related to online behaviour, peer pressure, and mental health, encouraging openness and reducing stigma.
- Professional Development for Staff: Provide training for staff to recognise signs of distress or radicalisation in students, and the need for appropriate and timely responses.
- Policy Review and Implementation: Review suite of safeguarding policies with regards the use of technology and social media to ensure they align with current challenges and promote a safe learning environment.
Adolescence serves as a compelling narrative that brings to light the multifaceted issues faced by today’s youth. By integrating the insights from the series into educational practices, schools can better support their students in navigating the complexities of adolescence in the digital age.
If you haven’t seen the drama, here’s the official trailer:
FREE CPD SESSION
We have taken the decision to release our short on-demand staff CPD workshop on Toxic masculinity and InCel culture free of charge.
On demand CPD means you can choose when to use the presentation – and with interactive exercises you can pause the recording to kickstart that professional discussion in relation to toxic masculinity and InCel culture.
If you are looking for a more in depth understanding and how this area links in with wider online challenges, and to meet Keeping Children Safe in Education requirements – take a look at our trainer-led up-to-date 2 hours staff Online Safety Awareness training.
By viewing this CPD video you are consenting to subscribe to our free fortnightly newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time.
