7 Things parents can do after watching Adolescence
Netflix’s hit tv show serves as a stark reminder of the importance of supporting children and young people online. Among the many topics that are touched on in the series are bullying, the impact of social media, mental health and consent. Another topic that is explored in the show is masculinity and misogyny, specifically the network of toxic online communities known as the manosphere.
Research from Dublin City University’s Anti-Bullying Centre shows that the recommender algorithms used by social media platforms are rapidly amplifying misogynistic and male supremacist content. Among the authors’ recommendations are the need for teacher education and the teaching of critical digital literacy skills in schools to equip young people with a better understanding of how influencer culture and algorithms work. For schools and families wishing to better understand the topic and find strategies to have conversations with young people, DCU also published a helpful guide; Addressing the impact of Masculinity Influencers on Teenage Boys A guide for schools, teachers and parents/guardians.
While Adolescence appears to have introduced some unfamiliar terms and new themes (the hidden emoji meanings for example) to parents/guardians, it also offers us a good opportunity to remind ourselves of some of the important things we can do to help support our children online.
If you’ve just finished watching this compelling drama and want to take some next steps here are some practical things parents/guardians can do:
1. Check in
Research shows parents are the main source of help when something bothering or upsetting happens online to their children and parents are the primary educator of their children. The most important things parents can do to support their child online is have a good relationship with them. Check in regularly, have discussions about life online and offline, being respectful and promoting positive self-esteem online, make time for family activities and be available to your child. Not sure how to start the conversation use our topic generator: talklistenlearn.webwise.ie/
2. Make a family agreement
It is important that children and young people are given support in relation to their access and use of the internet. A family agreement for online safety can be a great way to start a conversation with the whole family about how you all use the internet. Webwise have developed a useful template to help families agree rules around time online, sharing information online, connecting with others and more. When establishing rules consider making agreements around device-free times, avoiding devices in bedrooms at nighttime and what sorts of activities are ok and not okay online.
Download the agreement here.
3. Talk to your child about misinformation, manipulation and algorithms
Help your child understand how algorithms work. Explain that platforms use their behaviour—likes, shares, and searches—to suggest content, and this can create a “filter bubble” where they only see content that reinforces their existing interests or beliefs. Encourage them to follow diverse voices and perspectives to expand their understanding of the world. Equally influencers can play a big role in shaping our beliefs and views, have discussions with your child about the role of influencers, being respectful and to critically evaluating what we see hear or read online.
4. Fostering Digital Media Literacy
Children and teens are constantly engaging with digital content—from videos and social media posts to news articles and online ads. Helping your child develop strong digital media literacy skills is essential for navigating this digital landscape safely and confidently. Encourage your child to ask questions about the content they see online. Who created it? Why was it made? Is it factual, or does it seem biased? Teaching them to analyse the intent and accuracy of content helps them avoid falling for misinformation or being unduly influenced. Here are some practical tips for parents to foster digital media literacy at home: webwise.ie/parents/developing-healthy-digital-habits-2/
5. Developing healthy digital habits
In today’s connected world, technology offers incredible opportunities for learning, connecting, and exploring. However, navigating the online space also requires balance, awareness, and mindful habits. As a parent, you play a key role in helping your child develop healthy digital practices that empower them to thrive online and offline. Children and teens also welcome breaks from devices, establishing rules around access, switch off times, avoiding devices in bedroom at night-time are great ways to establish healthy routines. For tips on helping your child develop health digital habits visit: webwise.ie/parents/developing-healthy-digital-habits/
6. Lead by example
Model good digital habits by demonstrating how you evaluate content and balance screen time. Share moments when you fact-check information or reflect on why you follow certain accounts online. Make time for device free, family activities and create teachable moments by asking for your child’s consent when taking/sharing their photo online.
7. Asking for help
A key piece of advice always offered by one of our parent experts Dr. Colman Noctor is for parents to remind their children, that no matter what, they will never be in trouble for asking for help. Research tells us that many children don’t tell when something goes wrong online, remind your child that they can come to you without fear, embarrassment, repercussion (e.g. devices being taken away) if they are worried, confused or curious about anything they might have encountered online.
How are young people protected online?
While not specifically addressed in the programme, it is important to remind ourselves of the role of industry and that we have important new rules in place to protect children and young people online. In Ireland, there are new rules in place to protect children and young people online under the Online Safety Framework. Coimisiún na Meán; Ireland’s media regulator, is tasked with the important work of developing a thriving, diverse, creative, safe and trusted media landscape. This encompasses the digital eco-system, and as such, Coimisiún na Meán is responsible for Ireland’s Online Safety Framework, which includes 3 laws. This important framework will hold digital services accountable for how they protect people, especially children, from harm online.
For example, platforms must remove illegal content and diligently apply their own rules about acceptable harmful content. They must have easy-to-access, user-friendly ways for users to report illegal and harmful content, as well as a clear and accessible point of contact. Where Coimisiún na Meán identify that these requirements are not upheld, they are empowered to take action, for example by issuing fines.
For more information go to: cnam.ie/general-public/guides-resources/
What other supports are available for parents?
Irish Safer Internet Centre
Hotline.ie
Hotline.ie is the Irish national reporting centre where members of the public can securely, anonymously, and confidentially report concerns in respect of illegal content online, especially child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Visit Hotline.ie
ISPCC Childline
The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) operates the helpline (Childine), which provides services on a 24/7 basis where children affected by issues encountered on the internet may turn for advice and guidance
Visit ISPCC Childline
National Parents Council
The National Parents Council operates the parent/adult helpline, a dedicated helpline to deal with issues relating to internet safety, including cyberbullying. The NPC also provides parents with training courses, both online and face to face
Visit National Parents Council
