How could he do it? An exploration of adolescent violence via the Netflix series, "Adolescence"

Description: The need to belong to and be accepted by a group is a normal developmental task of adolescence.  However, with the rapid rise of instant communication via social media, and the hyper-sexualization of teens by society, this need can be magnified and distorted to a pathological degree.  What happens if/when one is rejected by the group—or when a “crush” is unrequited?  When does the need to belong become an unbearable pressure?  What does it take to push someone who looks “normal” over the edge?

The Emmy-winning Netflix series 'Adolescence' gripped audiences with its raw portrayal of teenage life, violence, and the forces shaping youth identity. Building on the powerful conversations it inspired, this training uses the series as a launchpad to tackle the urgent realities teens face today. Gain evidence-based strategies and practical tools to address adolescent violence, cyber-bullying, family impact, and mental health—equipping you to engage, support, and create meaningful change.

This newly developed 4-week course will follow Jamie, a fictional 13-year old boy, through the treacherous waters of teenage relationships, using the series, “Adolescence” as a springboard for discussion.  Along the way, issues of cyber-bullying, misogyny, “incel” culture, explosive violence, and the impact of trauma on parents and family will be explored.  What supports are in place for today’s teenagers?  Where have all the adults gone?

"What does it take to push a seemingly normal teen over the edge? This course will offer a practical approach to understanding the teen male psyche. In the process, both the complexity and simplicity of an answer will become apparent." - Dr. Marshall Korenblum.

Learning objectives:

• List the factors that contribute to teen relational violence.
• Appreciate the impact of cyber-bullying on adolescent development.
• Describe what a “good” mental health assessment does and does not look like.
• Have greater empathy for parents of disturbed teens.
• Reflect on and consider ways in which we can improve the safety and security of today’s teenagers.

Strengthen your clinical approach to adolescent violence, cyber-bullying, family impact and mental health with evidence-based research and actionable clinical insights.

Training format: This course will use a “flipped classroom” format, delivered over four 2-hour sessions. Participants will be required to watch each assigned episode of Adolescence independently at home in advance of each session. A personal Netflix subscription is required to access the episodes.

Weekly episodes and topics:

• Week 1 - Episode 1: The suspect and the crime.
• Week 2 - Episode 2: The school and social media.
• Week 3 - Episode 3: The mental health assessment/assessor.
• Week 4 - Episode 4: The impact on the parents.

Each weekly session will include:

• A facilitated reflective exercise and group discussion based on the episode viewed that week. Participants will engage in peer consultation to explore clinical questions raised by the content.
• A scholarly debrief led by Dr. Korenblum, who will place the episode in an academic context by integrating evidence-based research with actionable clinical insights.

Be among the first to register for this new training and build essential skills to better support teens and families facing the realities of adolescent violence and mental health.

Ontario Psychological Association employees, members, associates and affiliates can use discount code OPA15 to receive 15% off all upcoming programs (cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions/discounts).