I Asked 100 Teenagers About Adolescence: Their Surprising Responses

Recently, there’s been a lot of buzz around the new Netflix drama “Adolescence,” which delves into how boys are influenced by online culture. But what about the kids themselves? That’s what Chloe Combi set out to discover. Gathering 103 young people, aged 12 to 22, in a screening room in east London, she wanted to hear their thoughts on the show.

As a psychotherapist who once hosted a popular podcast focusing on teenagers, Combi was curious to see what the younger generation had to say about the issues depicted in “Adolescence.” The show follows the aftermath of a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, who tragically murders his female classmate after being radicalized online. It sheds light on the dark side of online culture that many teenagers are exposed to daily.

Watching the show with teenagers and young adults brought a new perspective. One word stood out for Combi: hope. Despite the heavy subject matter, the young viewers had opinions and insights that gave her hope for the future.

One element of the show that often goes unnoticed is Adam, the son of a character played by Ashley Walters. Adam is portrayed as a good, thoughtful young man trying to navigate a challenging school environment. This aspect resonated with the young viewers, highlighting the importance of positive male role models.

During the viewing, teenagers shared their thoughts on prominent figures like Andrew Tate, a controversial online personality. While some admitted to being influenced by Tate’s ideas, others found his aggressive approach off-putting. Mentorship emerged as a key theme, with older siblings playing a crucial role in guiding their younger counterparts away from toxic influences.

Banning discussions about figures like Tate in schools was a point of contention among the viewers. While some believed it could fuel resentment and a sense of injustice among boys, others felt it was necessary to prevent the spread of harmful ideologies. The volatile nature of social media and its impact on young minds was a cause for concern among the viewers.

Ultimately, the discussion highlighted the importance of real-life communities for young people. Whether through sports, arts, or other activities, having access to positive role models and genuine connections outside the online sphere was seen as essential for overall well-being.

In a world where online influences can be overwhelming, listening to the voices of young people may hold the key to addressing and combating toxic ideologies. “Adolescence” may shed light on darker aspects of teenage life, but it also serves as a reminder of the resilience and hope that young people carry within them.