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"Adolescence", the series that reflects reality and fuels global debate 

As more countries, including Portugal, limit the use of cell phones in schools, the debate grows, now driven by the series "Adolescence". In Australia, recent studies show behavioral improvements, but academic impacts are more difficult to measure.

The influence of social networks and mobile devices on the lives of children and young people has been at the center of debates and decisions around the world, and Portugal is no exception.  At a time when measures such as banning cell phones in schools are showing mixed results, the British series "Teenage" has come to "illustrate" the consequences of online pressures.

Recent studies in Australia and other countries reinforce the complexity of the problem, pointing to improvements in school behavior, although academic impacts are more difficult to measure.

A year after implementing a blanket ban on mobile phones in public schools, the Australian government has celebrated positive results in terms of student behaviour. According to a survey conducted in New South Wales, 87% of students report fewer distractions in the classroom and 81% perceive improvements in learning. In parallel, in South Australia, there was a 63% reduction in critical incidents related to social media and a 54% decrease in behavioral problems.

Education Minister Jason Clare highlighted how these measures are creating a healthier and more productive environment in schools. “Children are being children again,” he said, referring to the return of playground games and increased concentration in the classroom.

Academic results, however, have not kept pace with these behavioral improvements, according to data from the national literacy exam carried out annually in the country.

Studies in other regions offer a broader perspective and reveal that banning cell phones, while beneficial in many ways, is not a one-size-fits-all solution to the educational and social problems faced by young people.

In the UK, research conducted by the University of Birmingham concluded that simply banning devices in schools is not enough to significantly improve students’ academic performance or mental health. The research, published in The Lancet, highlights that young people who spend many hours on cell phones have worse indicators of well-being, but warns that more comprehensive policies are needed to achieve substantial changes.

A UNESCO report also advocates reducing the use of devices in schools, pointing out that the measure can improve concentration, self-esteem and combat bullying. However, the report emphasizes that technology must be used in a balanced way and accompanied by educational guidance on its risks and opportunities.

In a context of growing concern about the mental health of children and young people and the effects of social media, the British series "Teenage", from Netflix, has generated significant discussions around the world. The production explores the devastating consequences of online pressure and youth violence, representing the fictional case of Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy accused of murder.

The series was mentioned in the British Parliament, where Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted it as an important tool for understanding the challenges faced by young people today. Starmer said violence associated with online subcultures was a real problem that needed to be tackled urgently.

Experts praise the production for addressing toxic masculinity and the dangers of social media, topics that have also served as a warning to parents and educators. At the same time, the deputy leader of the Labour Party suggested that the series be shown in schools as an educational resource to make young people aware of the risks associated with technology.

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