„Adolescence” - A sociological analysis of juvenile deviance in the digital age
Keywords:
Adolescence (2025), digital literacy, adolescence, sociological film analysis, social labelling, online radicalization, incel culture, hegemonic masculinity, juvenile devianceAbstract
Introduction: This paper examines from a sociological perspective the British TV series „Adolescence” (2025) in order to investigate how juvenile deviance is represented in the contemporary digital context and how concepts such as toxic masculinity, online radicalization and marginalization of adolescents are reflected. The paper proposes an integrated theoretical approach, using concepts from the sociology of deviance, media theories and cultural studies. Methodology: The analysis is based on a qualitative methodology, applying narrative and visual content analysis of the series. Relevant theoretical frameworks such as labelling theory (Erving Goffman), ideology of hegemonic masculinity (Raewyn Connell), subculture theory (Albert K. Cohen), social learning theory (Albert Bandura) and social control theory (Travis Hirschi) are used. Key scenes, lines and visual contexts that support sociological interpretations are identified. Results: The series highlights the complexity of juvenile deviance as a result of the interplay between personal, social and technological factors. Jamie, the protagonist, is constructed as a symbol of societal failure to protect, understand and guide adolescents in the digital context. Hegemonic masculinity, lack of family support, 'incel' culture and exposure to misogynistic discourses online contribute to his alienation and radicalization. The institutional reaction and subsequent stigmatization confirm the hypotheses of social labelling theory. The series thus functions as a critical cultural text, highlighting the risks of normalizing violence and gender inequality in male identity formation. Conclusions: “Adolescence” provides a sociologically relevant portrayal of the crisis of adolescent masculinity and adolescent vulnerability in the digital age. The series contributes to the public debate on emotional literacy, digital literacy and the prevention of youth violence, becoming a valuable tool for research, education and public policy. The paper argues for the need for systemic interventions targeting family support, school involvement and regulation of the online environment as forms of protection against contemporary juvenile deviance.
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