If you haven’t heard about the latest Netflix sensation, Adolescence, then chances are, you’ve been living under a rock. Going in, I didn’t expect it to cover the themes that it did however, as someone who spends a large proportion of their day on social media (both in and out of work), it really got me thinking.
Now, although I’m not “old”, (Gen Z and crew sock wearer here), I don’t recall social media being a large part of my life as a child at school – if anything, I only started to see the large role it would soon play on the lives of young people. I didn’t get my first phone until I was 14, and even then, I recall my parents routinely telling me off for leaving it at home in case they needed to get a hold of me for “emergencies.” This was much the case for many in my school and my friend group – Facebook wasn’t massively important to us, I didn’t really start using Instagram until I went to university…and even when I did, it was purely used to keep in touch with friends and family at home.
But in the last ten years, social media has skyrocketed as a medium and in the process, has become a double-edged sword for the teenagers of today. While it offers a chance to connect, entertain, and help with self-expression, it also poses significant mental health risks—ranging from anxiety and depression to cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content. The Netflix series Adolescence brings such an issue into sharp focus, shedding light on how social media influences teenage behaviour, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
The Premise of Adolescence
The limited series Adolescence tells the story of Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering his classmate, Katie. As the investigation unfolds, the show explores his interactions with his family, therapist, and the detective on the case. A central theme of the series is the role social media played in shaping Jamie’s worldview, particularly his exposure to toxic online influencers who exploited his vulnerabilities (one very famous individual in particular is closely referenced.)
The show has been praised for its raw and unsettling portrayal of how digital platforms can become breeding grounds for harmful ideologies, cyberbullying, and emotional manipulation. This has sparked discussions about the responsibility of tech companies, parents, and schools in protecting young users.
The Mental Health Impact of Social Media on Teenagers
Research has consistently linked excessive social media use with negative mental health outcomes among teenagers. Some key findings include:
- Increased Depression and Anxiety: A study from JAMA Pediatrics found that adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media are at double the risk of experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Sleep Disruptions: The blue light from screens affects melatonin production, leading to poor sleep patterns, which in turn exacerbates mental health struggles.
- Social Comparison and Low Self-Esteem: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok promote unrealistic beauty standards and lifestyles, leading to body image issues and feelings of inadequacy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also reported a sharp rise in problematic social media use among adolescents, increasing from 7% in 2018 to 11% in 2022. This underscores the urgent need to address the psychological toll of digital technology on teenagers.
The Dangers of Online Influencers and Digital Radicalisation
One of the most chilling aspects of Adolescence is its depiction of toxic online figures who prey on vulnerable kids. Jamie, like many real-life teenagers, finds himself drawn to an online personality who promotes extremist views, misogyny, and violent ideologies. This mirrors real-world concerns about online radicalisation, where influencers build a following by targeting disaffected young men with promises of empowerment, belonging, and purpose.
This phenomenon isn’t new, but its impact has become more pronounced with the rise of short-form video content and algorithm-driven engagement. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube often push users toward more extreme content based on their viewing history, creating echo chambers that reinforce harmful beliefs.
Ireland’s Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) recently stated that Adolescence should be “compulsory viewing” in schools to educate students about the dangers of social media influence. This highlights the growing concern among policymakers and educators about digital radicalisation and the urgent need for intervention.
The Debate Over Smartphone Bans in Schools
In response to rising concerns over social media’s impact on mental health, governments are reconsidering smartphone policies in schools. The UK government, for instance, is reviewing school-wide smartphone bans to mitigate distractions and reduce the negative effects of social media on students’ mental well-being.
Critics argue that banning smartphones altogether may not be the most effective solution. Instead, a more balanced approach—such as digital literacy programs, mental health education, and parental controls—could be more beneficial in equipping teenagers with the skills to navigate social media responsibly.
What Can Be Done? Protecting Teenagers from Social Media Harms
While social media is an integral part of modern life, there are steps that parents, educators, and policymakers can take to protect teenagers from its negative effects:
- Encourage Healthy Screen Time Limits – Set daily usage limits and encourage offline activities like sports, reading, and face-to-face social interactions.
- Promote Digital Literacy – Teach teenagers how to critically evaluate online content, recognize misinformation, and identify harmful influences.
- Open Conversations About Mental Health – Create safe spaces where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their feelings and social media experiences.
- Implement Stricter Content Regulations – Tech companies should be held accountable for monitoring harmful content and improving parental control options.
- Teach Social Media Etiquette – Encourage responsible social media use, including being mindful of what they post and how they engage with others online.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Positive in Social Media
While Adolescence paints a dark and cautionary picture of social media’s impact, it’s important to remember that these platforms aren’t inherently bad. When used responsibly, social media can be an incredible tool for teenagers to learn, connect, and express themselves creatively.
For every toxic influencer spreading harmful ideologies, there are countless positive role models—mental health advocates, educators, and community leaders—who use these platforms to inspire and uplift young people. Social media has played a major role in raising awareness about important issues, offering support networks, and even helping teens discover their passions through art, music, and activism.
The key lies in education and guidance. If parents and educators actively engage with teenagers, teach them critical thinking, and foster open conversations about what they see online, then social media can become a force for good rather than harm. By exposing and challenging misogynistic figures instead of allowing them to thrive in hidden corners of the internet, we can help young people build a healthier relationship with social media—one that empowers rather than endangers them.
At its best, social media can connect teenagers to supportive communities, positive influences, and a world of knowledge. With the right safeguards in place, it doesn’t have to be a threat—it can be a powerful tool for growth, learning, and positive change.
So, instead of deleting all the apps, let’s focus on teaching the next generation how to use them wisely—because when used correctly, social media can be a place of creativity, opportunity, and even a little fun. 😊✨
