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'Adolescence' Breaks Netflix Records While Raising Concerns Over Its Use in Schools

The series has sparked global conversations on toxic masculinity and youth violence, but experts warn of potential harm in educational settings.

From left, Erin Doherty as Briony Ariston, Owen Cooper as Jamie Miller in Adolescence.
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Overview

  • 'Adolescence' has become Netflix's most-watched limited series, with 96.7 million views globally and top rankings in 74 countries.
  • The UK government has endorsed the series as a classroom resource, drawing both praise for addressing misogyny and criticism over its suitability for young audiences.
  • The Australian Federal Police issued warnings to parents about online safety, citing the series as a prompt to discuss social media dangers and radicalization.
  • Critics argue the show oversimplifies the causes of male violence and risks retraumatizing vulnerable viewers if shown without proper safeguards.
  • Experts highlight the series' focus on toxic masculinity, social media influence, and adolescent psychology, though some question its portrayal of incel culture and systemic factors.