A groundbreaking new TV drama, Adolescence, has sparked a national conversation about misogyny and its impact on young people. The show, which has gained significant traction among teenagers and educators alike, explores the influence of social media personalities and harmful ideologies on young boys, highlighting the urgent need for education on respect, relationships, and gender equality.
The drama’s storyline follows the journey of a teenage boy navigating peer pressure, online influences, and his perception of masculinity. It sheds light on how exposure to toxic online figures can shape attitudes towards women, leading to unhealthy and sometimes dangerous behaviours.
Government Action Following Adolescence
The popularity and hard-hitting themes of Adolescence have prompted the UK government to take action. In response to growing concerns about misogynistic attitudes in schools, updated Relationships, Health, and Sex Education (RHSE) guidance is set to be introduced. This new framework will focus on equipping young people with the knowledge to challenge harmful ideologies and build healthy relationships.
For primary school students, the emphasis will be on understanding boundaries and respect, while secondary school students will engage in more in-depth discussions about consent, gender equality, and the impact of online influencers.
Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan has praised the drama for highlighting real-world issues, stating, “It’s crucial that we address these influences head-on and ensure young people receive the right guidance to develop positive and respectful attitudes.”
Schools and Teachers Welcome the Initiative
Teachers and school leaders have expressed support for the new guidance, recognising the need to tackle the rise in harmful gender stereotypes and online radicalisation. Many schools are already incorporating discussions about Adolescence into their curriculum, using the show as a catalyst for open conversations about relationships and online safety.
A secondary school teacher in Birmingham commented, “Students are already talking about the show, so it’s a great opportunity to guide these discussions in a positive way. We need to ensure that young people are equipped to critically assess the messages they receive online.”
The rise of social media figures who promote misogynistic views has been a growing concern for educators and parents. Adolescence has been praised for addressing this issue head-on, presenting a realistic portrayal of how young minds can be shaped by online content.
Parents, too, are encouraged to engage in conversations with their children about what they watch online and how these messages affect their beliefs and behaviour.
While the introduction of updated RHSE guidance is a positive step, experts agree that tackling misogyny requires a multi-faceted approach involving parents, teachers, and wider society. Media representations like Adolescence serve as valuable tools to highlight the issue, but continued education and open dialogue are key to ensuring long-term change.
With the show resonating with young audiences and policymakers alike, it’s clear that storytelling can play a crucial role in shaping attitudes and fostering a more respectful and equal society. Schools across the UK will now play a pivotal role in ensuring that these lessons go beyond the screen and into everyday life.