The new Netflix drama Adolescence has sparked intense discussions across news organizations, and social media especially among young people. The four-part series, which explores the harsh realities of teenage violence, online radicalization, and the pressures facing young men today, is a sobering wake-up call for parents, educators, and communities. As Christians, how should we respond to the themes raised in this show? How can we engage with culture while holding onto biblical truth?  

A Story That Hits Home 

Michael Hogan, writing for The Guardian (2025), calls Adolescence “a howl of despair and a call to action,” describing its unflinching portrayal of modern teenage struggles (The Guardian). The story follows the Miller family as their 13-year-old son Jamie is arrested for the shocking murder of a female classmate. Through the lens of a grieving family, police investigation, and the complex web of social influences, the series raises pressing questions: How are young boys being shaped by the digital world? What role does social media play in fueling violence? And most importantly, how can we, as a society and individuals, step in? 

The Digital Battlefield: A Christian Response 

One of the most unsettling aspects of Adolescence is how Jamie, an ordinary boy, is gradually consumed by the toxic online subcultures that glorify dominance, resentment, and aggression. Hogan’s review notes that the show exposes the dangers of the “manosphere”—a shadowy online world where vulnerable young men are indoctrinated with harmful ideologies (Hogan, 2025). 

In Battlefield of the Mind, Joyce Meyer highlights how our thoughts determine our actions, and the enemy seeks to plant destructive ideas that take root and lead to strongholds. This is precisely what we see in Adolescence—a young mind, left unchecked, being shaped by harmful voices rather than by truth. Scripture warns us: 

“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character’” (1 Corinthians 15:33, NIV). 

Just as Meyer teaches the importance of renewing the mind with God’s Word, we must recognize the digital battlefield shaping today’s youth. As Christians, we are called to be vigilant about what is influencing the hearts and minds of the next generation. This means fostering open conversations with young people, equipping them with biblical truth, and ensuring that online engagement is balanced with real-life mentorship and discipleship.  

Hope in the Darkness 

Despite its heavy themes, Adolescence ultimately calls for action and awareness. It reminds us that young people today are searching for identity, belonging, and purpose. The world offers counterfeit answers—anger, rebellion, and radicalization—but Christ offers true hope. “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10, NIV). 

As Christians, it is important to step into these cultural conversations, not shy away from them. We can engage with difficult topics through a biblical lens, advocate for the unchanging truth, and offer the hope of Jesus to a generation that desperately needs it. 

Final Thoughts 

Adolescence is more than just a powerful TV show—it’s a reflection of the brokenness in our world. But where there is brokenness, there is also an opportunity for the Gospel. Let’s use this moment to have honest discussions with young people, to guide them toward wisdom, and to point them to the ultimate source of truth: Jesus Christ. 

Watch the below video from The Fresh Start on Aaron and Chloe’s discussion on this show with Brett from Focus on the Family.

Written by: Audrey Waugh, Marketing at Rhema FM