#adolescent-identity

#adolescent-identity

Netflix's Adolescence has burst into public conversation since its release, applauded for its striking performances, brutal honesty, and unflinching portrayal of teenage angst. But beyond the awards and buzz lie the questions this series forces us to confront. What happens to a teenager's sense of self when every online resentment, rumor, or post can go viral? What support do kids under constant scrutiny have? What role do adults play when digital cruelty and adolescent fragility intersect?

My niece has always been troubled. She got pregnant at 14 and ran away at 16. She died of a drug overdose at the age of 25. Her baby, "Jenna," was adopted by her grandparents-my sister and brother-in-law. They decided to lie and pass Jenna off as their own child, and have never told her about her adoption, and use the experience of her "sister" in order to scare Jenna into obedience.