A recent Netflix series from the UK, titled Adolescence, has sparked an urgent reminder from the Australian Federal Police regarding online safety for children and teenagers. The show delves into significant themes, particularly the negative aspects of social media and its potentially harmful effects on young viewers, focusing particularly on teenage boys.
The narrative centres on Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old who becomes embroiled in a serious crime, being arrested for the murder of his classmate, Katie Leonard. The series explores Jamie’s descent into the "manosphere," a digital environment filled with toxic anti-women rhetoric, alongside the bullying he experiences online, where he is disparagingly labelled as an "incel"—a term used for men who feel they are unable to attract female attention, often accompanied by beliefs in female inferiority.
In light of these themes, the Australian Federal Police have urged parents to engage in open discussions with their children about their online activities. They emphasised the importance of understanding what kids are encountering on the internet and how it might impact them emotionally and mentally. Parents are encouraged to educate themselves about their children’s online behaviours, to ask questions, and to seek out resources that facilitate these vital conversations.
The series has also ignited discussions around prominent figures in the realm of extreme anti-feminist content, including individuals like Andrew Tate. This discourse serves to highlight the urgent need for parental awareness and education in navigating the complex online landscape that youth engage with today.
For those seeking assistance, support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and from Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800.