Social Media’s Dark Side: Impact on Teens | Netflix

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• Netflix’s “Adolescence” series highlights the impact of social media on teens.
• Experts believe social media can negatively affect teens’ self-esteem and mental health.
• The series follows 13-year-old Jamie Miller, struggling with social media pressures.
• The need for validation on social media can lead to increased anxiety and depression in teens.
• Open communication, clear boundaries, and media literacy can protect teens from social media dangers.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Netflix’s latest psychological thriller, “Adolescence,” strikes a nerve by portraying the raw realities of adolescent life in the digital age. Through the story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, the series dives into emotional isolation, social media pressure, and the relentless need for validation. “Adolescence” opens a necessary conversation about social media’s impact on teens.

The series begins with Jamie’s arrest for the murder of a classmate. As the investigation progresses, layers of psychological trauma emerge. Co-creators Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham intentionally focused on a teenager’s experience. This showcases how early exposure to the online world can shape young identities. The sheer desperation for approval is alarming. But how real is this crisis? We discuss.

The Validation Trap

For today’s young minds, self-worth often hinges on digital approval. From Instagram likes to engagement on comments, social media algorithms are designed to keep one engaged, encouraging a continuous loop of seeking external validation.

Dr. Kamna Chhibber, Head of Mental Health at Fortis Healthcare, says the psychological consequences of this cycle are often underestimated. “Social media fosters a culture of instant gratification. Adolescents frequently equate their self-worth with how others perceive them online, leading to heightened anxiety, self-doubt, and even depressive tendencies.”

This external validation can become addictive. Each like or share triggers dopamine, reinforcing the need for further approval. When validation is absent or negative feedback arises, it can result in emotional withdrawal or aggressive behavior.

Swati Chopra, a journalist and a single parent to a 9-year-old boy, has been conscious of this risk. Her parenting approach emphasizes self-validation rather than external praise. “When my son achieves something, my first question isn’t, ‘I am proud of you!’ It’s, ‘Are you proud of yourself?’ I want him to value his own effort and feel proud internally.”

Open Communication

Despite parental controls and safety features, inappropriate content continues to seep through digital platforms. Swati recalls her son encountering a dating app ad on YouTube while watching football videos.

“He asked me about it. Rather than avoiding it, I explained it to him in simple terms. I believe in answering his questions directly — if I don’t, he’ll find his answers elsewhere, and that could be harmful.”

Dr. Chhibber agrees that avoiding tough conversations increases a child’s curiosity, often leading them to unreliable sources for answers.

Transparent dialogue becomes even more evident when children absorb harmful stereotypes. Swati recalls a moment when her son said, ‘Mom, because you’re a girl, you can’t be stronger than Papa.’ That opened up a long conversation about gender equality.

Dealing with Toxic Ideologies

A particularly unsettling theme explored in Adolescence is the spread of toxic masculinity through online “manosphere” communities. Concepts like the “80:20 ratio” foster insecurity and resentment in young boys.

Tanushree Bhargava, a clinical psychologist at Yatharth Hospital, warns that these ideologies can severely impact self-perception. “Exposure to hyper-masculine and misogynistic content shapes harmful beliefs. For boys struggling with self-esteem, these spaces provide a false sense of belonging, often leading to aggressive behavior and warped perceptions of relationships.”

Swati believes constant conversations about respect and equality are necessary. “It’s important to address these ideas before they become ingrained. I’ve taught my son that respecting women isn’t just a rule — it’s a reflection of his own character.”

Cyberbullying Has Many Faces

Bullying has evolved in the digital world. What may appear as a harmless emoji can have malicious intent. Slang and acronyms are often used for exclusion or mockery. This makes it harder for adults to detect cyberbullying.

Bhargava explains the psychological impact. “Unlike in-person interactions, online bullying lacks empathy. A single negative comment can feel overwhelming. Without intervention, this can lead to severe emotional distress.”

Parents should remain attentive to behavioral shifts, such as withdrawal, mood swings, or reluctance to use devices. Awareness of social media’s impact on teens is crucial.

Setting Boundaries

Swati has implemented clear boundaries for her son’s digital use. His video games are chat-disabled to prevent exposure to harmful conversations. “He wasn’t happy at first. But once I explained the dangers, he accepted it. Children today need explanations, not just rules.”

While restrictions are necessary, Swati believes in reinforcing trust. “Even if he breaks a rule, I remind him that I trust him. Trust encourages better decision-making.”

Bhargava echoes this, emphasizing that punitive measures can harm parent-child relationships. “Respond with understanding. This creates a space where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences without fear of punishment.”

Need for Collective Action

While parents play a crucial role, schools and policymakers also have a responsibility. Media literacy programs can equip adolescents to navigate social media responsibly.

“Mental health support must be accessible, and conversations about digital well-being should be normalized within schools,” says Dr. Chhibber.

India lacks culturally relevant media addressing these challenges. Unlike Western shows like Euphoria or Adolescence, Indian storytelling has yet to offer representations of the psychological effects of digital life.

How to Deal With It?

Swati’s goal isn’t to keep her son away from the digital world. It’s to guide him through it. “It’s impossible to block everything. But by building trust and keeping conversations open, I can help him navigate this world responsibly.”

Adolescence serves as a reminder of how unchecked digital influence can lead to dangerous outcomes. With conscious parenting and collective effort, things can change.

Remember: If we don’t guide them through the digital world — someone else will.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Social media can negatively impact teens’ self-esteem and mental health.
• Open communication and trust can protect teens from social media dangers.
• Parents should set clear boundaries for their children’s digital use.
• Schools and policymakers have a responsibility to create safe online environments.
• Netflix’s “Adolescence” series raises awareness about social media’s impact on teens.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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