Why Adolescence on Netflix is So Special: A Deeper Look at Themes and Family Discussions

Adolescence, the powerful new Netflix series, is captivating audiences with its raw and authentic portrayal of the teenage experience. For both young viewers and parents alike, it’s an engaging exploration of the complexities of growing up—offering lessons on identity, relationships, and mental health. But what makes Adolescence so special? And how does it open up important discussions for students, particularly those studying English at GCSE and KS3? 

Let’s explore the themes of the show, insights from the director and cast, and how parents can watch it critically with their children to enhance understanding.

Why Is Adolescence So Special?

Adolescence stands out in the world of teen dramas for its honest and unapologetic look at the struggles of being a teenager. The series centres around the murder of Katie by 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper). On the face of it, it seems that Jamie’s bullying leads him to do the unthinkable, but as the mini series explores what happened, it is clear that Jamie has been influenced by social media, causing him to harbour misogynistic views warping his sense of morality when it comes to females. In an interview with director, Philip Barantini, explained, "I’ve been getting screenshots of school forums where teachers are talking about showing it to their pupils. All of these things that we really hoped would happen. We hoped it would spark conversations within households and also potentially in schools, but, but it’s done that and beyond and that literally is the biggest win for me." [Rolling Stones, 27/03/25]

This realism is what makes Adolescence resonate with viewers. Unlike other shows that romanticise the teenage years, Adolescence embraces the emotional complexities that often come with this stage of life. Whether it's dealing with mental health struggles, navigating relationships, or understanding the power and danger of social media, the series presents these challenges in a relatable way.

For English GCSE and KS3 students, the series is a treasure trove of themes and character development that are ideal for exploring in academic discussions. The nuanced portrayal of family relationships (that seem normal, ordinary and mundane but in fact have undertones of emotional abuse and sexism); bullying and loneliness; gender divide and toxic masculinity, provides a deep well of material for essay writing, class debates, and analysis.

Identity and Self-Discovery in Adolescence

Jamie’s struggle with identity is central to the narrative. Initially portrayed as an ordinary teenager, his exposure to toxic online communities and societal expectations distorts his perception of masculinity and self-worth. His descent highlights the vulnerability of adolescents to external influences during their formative years. The series underscores how isolation and the search for belonging can lead to the adoption of harmful ideologies, ultimately culminating in tragic actions.

Connections to Classic Literature

The theme of self-discovery in Adolescence resonates with several classic literary works:

• Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare: Much like Jamie, Romeo grapples with intense emotions and societal pressures that lead him down a destructive path. Both characters’ journeys underscore the turmoil that can accompany the quest for identity amidst external conflicts.

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë: Jane's journey towards self-realisation and independence mirrors Jamie's struggle to define himself. While Jane ultimately finds a path to empowerment, Jamie's story serves as a cautionary tale of lost potential when one's sense of self is undermined by negative influences.

• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger: Holden Caulfield's pervasive sense of alienation and his critical view of society parallel Jamie's feelings of isolation and disillusionment. Both narratives delve into the complexities of teenage angst and the search for authenticity in a perceived hypocritical world.

How Adolescence Opens Discussions for Parents and Students

One of the most remarkable aspects of Adolescence is its ability to spark open conversations—both for students and their parents. The challenges and struggles depicted in the series are real, and the raw portrayal of a teenager’s emotional journey offers a great starting point for important discussions.

As Stephen Graham stated, "It’s crossed that generational gap" because “We made a piece that was based on truth and things that are happening in Britain with young men stabbing young girls to death. We just wanted to shine a light there, and, predominantly, we just wanted to create conversation between parents and children.” [Tudum Netflix, 27/03/25]

Parents can benefit from watching the show alongside their children, as it provides an opportunity to discuss the issues that teenagers may face but might not always feel comfortable talking about. Mental health, bullying, relationships, and online pressures and toxic beliefs and attitudes —these are all topics explored in Adolescence, and they are themes that will resonate with both students and parents.

For parents, watching the show critically allows them to connect with their child’s world in a way they might not otherwise understand. It opens the door to honest, non-judgemental conversations about growing up in today’s society. 

How Adolescence Helps Students Think Critically and Conceptually

Another powerful way that Adolescence benefits students is by helping them think critically and conceptually—skills that are crucial in English studies.

• Critical Thinking involves analysing and evaluating information from different perspectives. By watching Adolescence, students can practise questioning the motivations behind characters’ actions, the effectiveness of the storytelling, and how the series portrays issues like mental health and relationships. This encourages students to not just passively watch the show, but to assess and form their own opinions about the content, the characters, and the messages conveyed.

• Conceptual Thinking encourages students to think beyond the surface level and to make connections between abstract ideas. For example, students can explore how the themes in Adolescence—such as identity, societal expectations, and family pressure—relate to other works of literature, both contemporary and classical.

These skills are incredibly valuable for GCSE and KS3 students, particularly when tackling essays, analyses, or discussions of set texts. Adolescence offers a chance for students to practise thinking critically and conceptually about the media they consume, which will ultimately help them become more insightful and reflective in their English studies.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Families and Students Alike

Adolescence is more than just a teen drama—it’s an exploration of growing up in a world that is constantly shifting. For students, it’s an excellent way to understand literary themes like identity, conflict, and growth. For parents, it’s an opportunity to connect with their children over shared experiences and open up meaningful conversations about the challenges of adolescence. Whether for academic insight or personal reflection, Adolescence is a show that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Rolling Stones  https://www.rollingstone.co.uk/tv/news/adolescence-director-philip-barantini-interview-netflix-49045/

Tudum by Netflix 

https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/adolescence-stephen-graham-interview