It feels like everyone is talking about the television series Adolescence, and for good reason, according to Australian parenting experts.

As viewers across the globe binge-watch the Netflix crime drama “Adolescence,” conversations at dinner tables and classroom discussions are emerging, revolving around its raw portrayal of a teenage boy accused of murdering a female classmate. Captivating audiences with its grim narrative, the series has been termed “a portrait of modern boyhood in profound crisis.” But while the dramatic events unfold on screen, parenting experts in Australia are seizing the opportunity to address real issues facing teenagers today—issues like toxic masculinity, loneliness, and the pervasive gender divide.

How to talk to your teenager about the show?

Though “Adolescence” is not based on actual events, its themes resonate deeply with societal narratives surrounding youth violence, particularly incidents of young boys involved in knife crimes reported in the UK. Dr. Rachael Sharman, a psychologist from Queensland, emphasizes that parents should strive to understand their teenager’s views on pressing topics such as masculinity, social media, bullying, and pornography.

“What you need to tap into first is what is their point of view,” Dr. Sharman advises. “Teenagers are naturally inquisitive and often interested in exploring various perspectives. Helping them consider different angles is beneficial.”

With “Adolescence” receiving an M classification rating in Australia due to its coarse language, violence, and mature themes, parents might wonder how to engage their children in discussions stemming from the show. Rebecca Sparrow, a teen educator and author, recommends watching the series together. “Prepare to pause frequently to discuss what you’re seeing. Ask them questions like, ‘What did you notice in this episode?’ and ‘Do you think that’s a realistic portrayal of high school?’” she suggests. If they are unresponsive, she adds, parents should not hesitate to share their own thoughts.

How do you stay connected to your teen?

Dr. Sharman raises a pertinent question: are parents truly aware of what their children are experiencing online? “Kids today inhabit a dual reality—the real world and the online world,” she states, warning that overlooking this divide can have unforeseen consequences. Sparrow suggests keeping internet-enabled devices out of bedrooms, especially at night, emphasizing the importance of monitoring social media access.

Psychologists say Adolescence poses the question of whether parents are fully aware of what their children are doing online. (ABC News: Maren Preuss)

• Monitor your child’s online activity.
• Encourage regular discussions, listening twice as much as you speak.
• Minimize screen time and prioritize face-to-face relationships.
• Ensure your child knows where they are and has access to supportive adults.

Moreover, modeling the behavior parents wish to see can also reinforce positive values. Dr. Justin Coulson, another parenting expert, echoes this, stating, “Let them witness interactions that reflect kindness and resolution through communication rather than conflict.”

Addressing the issues with boys and girls

Reflecting on the profound societal implications of the series, Dr. Coulson mentions that it has prompted him to revise the final chapter of his upcoming book on parenting boys. “Our boys are being robbed of the opportunity to mature into men without being burdened by harmful conceptions of masculinity,” he asserts. His passionate review of the show on social media generated an overwhelming response, suggesting a public yearning for deeper dialogue on these issues.

Talking to sons about the ‘manosphere’

Amid rising discussions around the new ‘manosphere’—a network of online platforms promoting toxic masculinity—Coulson advises parents to guide their children through navigating its messages. “Helping kids explore these topics fosters healthy curiosity, but it’s essential to counter the harmful narratives,” he says. Crucially, he emphasizes that these lessons aren’t just for boys: “These conversations around respect and kindness shouldn’t be gendered; they’re fundamental human values.”

The Victorian Women’s Trust plans to host a free webinar addressing the rise of sexism and misogyny in Australian schools, aiming to provide parents with insights and practical guidance on these pressing issues. Executive Director Mary Crooks believes that greater awareness is vital. “We are lifting the lid on problems occurring within our schools and offering advice for both parents and children,” she states.

Where can you go if your teen needs help?

As the series reaches its climax, it raises unsettling questions for parents about overlooking the signs of distress within their children. Dr. Sharman reminds viewers that the extreme situation depicted in the show is not the norm. “While vulnerable periods exist in a child’s development, it’s crucial to approach the story critically,” she explains. “The internet ‘manosphere’ poses a real risk, but intervention can guide most teens safely through their formative years.”

For parents concerned about their teenager’s behavior or mental health, Dr. Sharman recommends seeking a GP’s advice. “Sometimes, what appears as fatigue or irritability could stem from a biological condition,” she highlights, underscoring the need for a thorough assessment before pursuing a mental health plan tailored to the teen’s needs.

“Engaging with these issues thoughtfully and empathetically can foster positive change—both at home and within society,” she concludes. As parents navigate the complexities of adolescence alongside their children, it’s evident that the conversation sparked by the series “Adolescence” holds the potential to influence not just individual families, but the broader cultural landscape as well.

Source: www.abc.net.au