'Social Media Isn't the Only Problem': Therapist Shares Key Lessons from Netflix’s Adolescence

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Adolescence has rapidly emerged as one of the most discussed series on Netflix in 2025, captivating audiences with the unsettling narrative of Jamie Miller, a teenager accused of murder. However, the series goes beyond mere suspense, exploring the genuine difficulties of adolescence and illuminating the social and psychological hurdles that influence young individuals.

Divija Bhasin, a licensed therapist, frequently offers her perspectives on mental health and wellness to her Instagram followers. In a post dated March 25, she shared her reflections on the series after viewing it, emphasizing important insights and raising pertinent concerns.

1. Social media isn't the only problem

Divija states, "Many individuals think that social media is the sole factor behind Jamie's actions as a murderer, but this perspective is incomplete. The core problem stems from the damaging beliefs we have come to accept, which are transmitted through parents, educators, and peers. For instance, the idea that 'boys will be boys' normalizes aggressive or sexual behavior as inherent to them, while labeling a girl as a 'sl*t' for sharing her nude images is equally harmful. Simply prohibiting social media will not address these underlying attitudes if they persist in society."

2. It all starts with beliefs and norms

Divija Bhasin articulates that detrimental behaviors arise from entrenched beliefs and societal standards. She emphasizes that individuals who perceive a girl in a crop top as "inviting trouble" are perpetuating harmful mentalities. Bhasin asserts that when such notions become accepted, they can lead to destructive actions. The influence on young people extends beyond social media; it is the harmful ideologies present in society that mold their attitudes and behaviors.

3. Parenting isn't just about teaching values

Divija emphasizes that effective parenting extends beyond merely imparting values; it involves embodying those values as well. She notes that children not only learn from direct instruction but also internalize behaviors by watching their parents.

In discussing adolescence, she highlights a pivotal moment in which Jamie confides in the psychologist about his father's anger, completely dismissing the extent of his father's violence. Subsequently, in the fourth episode, his parents are depicted as being similarly in denial. "This is how issues are transmitted across generations, with denial being a significant part of the problem," she clarifies.

Jamie’s conversation with the psychologist reveals his denial of his father’s violent behaviour, mirroring his parents’ own refusal to acknowledge it.

She emphasizes the detrimental impact of societal beliefs on parenting. "We often hear phrases like 'boys will be boys,' suggesting that men are inherently rough and violent, while women are portrayed as gentle and emotional. Throughout the television series, the mother frequently suppresses her own emotions to support the father, affirming his actions and leading him to believe he is in the right, even when he is not. Additionally, we observe Jamie anticipating that the psychologist will respond similarly."

Bhasin argues that merely altering parenting techniques will not resolve the issue. "It is not enough to modify our parenting styles; we must also undergo personal transformation if we wish for our children to grow into compassionate individuals," she concludes.

4. It's not about sex, it's about control

Divija contests the prevalent notion that men possess an inherent tendency towards aggression and sexuality, which purportedly necessitates the protection of women from them. She clarifies that the core issue lies not in sexuality itself, but rather in the dynamics of power and control. Citing the example of Adolescence, she highlights that Jamie's interest in Katie was not genuine; he only pursued her after her private images were made public. "He perceived her as vulnerable due to the derogatory comments about her appearance, believing he could exploit her situation but opted not to," she elaborates.

"In summary, the series illustrates that our development is influenced not solely by parenting or our surroundings, but by the interplay of both factors," she concludes.

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