Title: Beyond the Panic: Adolescence, Social Media, and the Village We Need for Our Boys

The recent Netflix drama Adolescence has been a tough watch, to say the least. Like the powerful ITV drama about the Post Office scandal, it feels like a potential watershed moment, a stark portrayal of a problem we can no longer ignore: the crisis facing our young boys in the age of social media.

Adolescence lays bare the horrifying realities of how boys can be manipulated, radicalised, and driven to tragic ends through online platforms. It’s a story that forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about the dark corners of the internet and its devastating impact on vulnerable minds. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by moral panic, to simply condemn the technology or the individuals involved. But while it's crucial to acknowledge the gravity of the situation, we must move beyond panic and start thinking about solutions.

Just as the Post Office drama sparked a national reckoning and a demand for accountability, Adolescence could be the catalyst for a broader conversation about how we support our boys. We must ask ourselves: What are we doing to equip them with the critical thinking skills to navigate online spaces? How are we fostering healthy relationships and real-world connections that can counteract the pull of virtual communities? And what role do we all play in creating a society where boys feel seen, heard, and valued?

When we talk about solutions, we need to think about practical examples. This is where YA writers have a crucial role to play. We can create stories that not only acknowledge the challenges young boys face but also offer them pathways to thrive. We can show them examples of healthy masculinity, of vulnerability as a strength, and of the power of genuine connection. By presenting narratives of resilience, courage, and community, we can provide young readers with hope and inspiration, demonstrating that there are ways to navigate the complexities of modern life and emerge stronger and more compassionate.

My novel, Fulmar, is one such example. It's a story about a young person, Jacob, who is struggling but finds hope and healing through a tangible, real-world activity—surfing—and the supportive network of his local community. It's a reminder that sometimes, the answer isn't online but in the physical world, in human connection, and in finding a passion that grounds you.

Fulmar offers a counter-narrative to the isolation and manipulation depicted in Adolescence. It shows the power of real-world connections, the strength that can be found in community, and the transformative impact of positive role models. Like Gareth Southgate's positive vision for his England team, which he talked about in his recent Richard Dimbleby Lecture, I wanted Fulmar to convey a positive, optimistic message, particularly for young boys. The story celebrates resilience, courage, friendship, and respect for self and others, values essential for young people navigating the challenges of growing up.

As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. That village includes all of us. We are all responsible for creating a supportive environment where our boys can thrive. Just as Jacob found strength in his community, our boys need to know that they are not alone, that there are people who care about them, and that there are healthy ways to find connection and purpose.

Adolescence is a wake-up call, a reminder that we cannot afford to be complacent. But let's not just react with fear and condemnation. Let’s use this moment to build a better future for our boys, one in which they are empowered, supported, and guided by a strong and caring community.

What are your thoughts on Adolescence? How do you think we can better support our young boys in today's world? I’d love to hear your perspectives in the comments below.

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