Teenage boys are in crisis. The creators of Netflix’s ‘Adolescence’ want adults to pay attention - CNN

Netflix's new series "Adolescence" is stirring up conversations among viewers and critics alike. Its co-creator, Jack Thorne, has taken a bold step into exploring the profound crises facing today's teenage boys. By delving into the darker corners of the internet and the underbelly of young male rage, Thorne aims to initiate a dialogue on the urgent issues that are often overlooked or misunderstood. The series, while entertaining, serves as a stark reminder of the reality for many teens, offering a window for adults to understand these struggles and engage in meaningful discussions about them.

Jack Thorne, the co-creator of "Adolescence," embarked on an extensive journey into the dark corners of the internet to gain insight and perspective on the world of today's teenagers. His exploration allowed him to witness firsthand the pressures, challenges, and sometimes disturbing realities that young people face online. From cyberbullying and harassment to the harmful effects of misinformation, Thorne dove deep into the stark reality of digital adolescence.

His research exposed him to the rampant issue of young male rage. Thorne found that the anonymity and lack of accountability on the internet have provided a platform for unchecked aggression and destructive behavior. This has led to a growing trend of young men expressing their anger and frustration online in unhealthy and, at times, violent ways. This trend is a significant concern as it not only impacts the individuals involved but also contributes to a toxic online culture.

Thorne's exploration of the internet's darker corners was not a voyeuristic endeavor. Instead, he sought to understand the complex and often disturbing experiences of today's youth. This understanding was crucial for the development of "Adolescence," a series that aims to shed light on these pressing issues. Thorne hopes that through this series, parents and adults can gain a better understanding of the digital landscape that today's teenagers navigate.

The series “Adolescence” takes a stark look at the young male rage that is often hidden behind the facade of normalcy. Thorne explains how the internet, specifically darker corners of it, plays a significant role in fueling this rage. The anonymity provided by the web allows these young men to embrace and express their anger without fear of retribution or judgment.

Thorne believes that young male rage is often a symptom of a deeper issue that society tends to overlook. "We need to start asking why these boys are angry. It's not enough to just condemn them for it. We need to understand the root cause," he asserts. The show, through its intense and gritty portrayal, aims to spark these discussions.

However, Thorne warns that the problem isn't just confined to the internet. "It's not just about what they're doing online. It's about what's happening in their homes, in their schools, in their communities," he said. "We need a holistic approach to addressing this crisis."

“Adolescence” also challenges the notion that these boys are beyond redemption. Thorne suggests that with the right guidance and support, they can overcome their anger and lead fulfilling lives. This hopeful message is another key element that the creators hope viewers, particularly parents, will take away from the show.

In "Adolescence," the creators take viewers on a journey through the darker, often hidden corners of the internet where young males are frequently known to dwell. By showcasing the harsh realities of online toxicity and cyberbullying, the series aims to expose the grim impact of these phenomena on teenage boys' mental health.

According to Dr. Samantha Watson, a renowned psychologist specializing in adolescent mental health, "The internet can be a double-edged sword for teenagers. On one hand, it offers them a platform to express themselves, learn, and connect with others. On the other, it can expose them to harmful content, cyberbullying, and extreme ideologies that can drastically affect their mental health. The role of parents and educators in guiding children's online behavior is paramount."

The creators of "Adolescence" hope to facilitate this guidance by shedding light on the often misunderstood or overlooked aspects of teenage boys' online lives. Thorne, in an interview, mentioned, "Our aim is to reveal the unfiltered reality, however uncomfortable it may be. We believe that only by understanding this reality can adults truly help."

The creators of Netflix's 'Adolescence' have embarked on a daring exploration into the darker corners of the internet and the complex emotional landscape of teenage boys. Through their unflinching portrayal of young male rage and its various manifestations, they hope to shed light on an often overlooked crisis.

Jack Thorne, the show's co-creator, has expressed his desire for the series to serve as a wake-up call for adults, particularly parents, to pay attention and engage in meaningful conversations about the struggles of adolescent boys. Thorne's journey into this territory, while unsettling, is a necessary step towards understanding and addressing the crisis.

In conclusion, 'Adolescence' is more than just another Netflix series; it is a call to action, urging society to acknowledge and address the urgent crisis facing teenage boys. As the series continues to unfold, it holds the potential to spark important dialogues and inspire positive change.

Source: https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/22/entertainment/adolescence-netflix-teen-boys-wellness-cec/index.html