Navigating teens and tech: lessons for parents from Netflix’s Adolescence

If you've recently watched the Netflix series Adolescence, you might have found yourself deep in conversation with your teenager, or at least deep in thought.

The series offers an unfiltered look into the emotional world of teenagers and has sparked powerful reflections for many families.

It reminds us of something we already know but sometimes forget: our kids need us to be present, engaged and proactive, especially when it comes to the digital world.

So, let’s unpack how parents can approach these issues in their own homes.

Build on the relationship that you have with your child

At the heart of every healthy parent–teen interaction is a strong relationship. That connection, built over time, becomes the foundation for trust and open communication.

School Psychologist, Brendan Everett, says one of the most important things parents can do is build a strong relationship with their child, because emotional wellbeing starts with open, supportive communication.

"A simple but powerful strategy is for parents to do is spend quality time doing what their kids love, whether that's gaming, art, or something else entirely,” he said.

"Instead of pulling kids into our world, we need to step into theirs. Show genuine interest in what excites and engages them.

"When a child shares something they're passionate about, it opens the door to connection, confidence and meaningful conversation."

Communicate early—and keep it going

One clear message from Adolescence is how quickly things can unravel when communication breaks down. The key is to start early, long before issues arise.

Encourage your child to share openly and respond in ways that keep those doors open. That means listening and reacting calmly, even when the topic is hard to hear.

Finding natural, low-pressure opportunities, such as car rides, dinner time, or before bed, helps keep conversations with teens flowing.

Mr Everett says before we expect our kids to talk about their feelings, we need to model that ourselves.

 “It starts with how we express our own emotions,” he said.

“If your child brings something confronting to you, staying calm encourages them to keep coming back. That’s how trust is built.

“Strong relationships and open communication are the foundation, not just for wellbeing, but for helping our children navigate the online world too.”

Understanding their online world

As parents, it’s crucial that we make an effort to understand the online spaces our kids inhabit.

Mr Everett says it starts with building our own knowledge; understanding the digital world our kids are growing up in, even if it’s not a space we feel confident in.

“We can’t support our kids online if we don’t understand the platforms they’re on or what their digital world looks like,” he added.

Whether it’s TikTok, Discord or a multiplayer game, take interest. Ask questions, and let your child teach you.

This creates opportunities for connection and helps you better support them as they navigate challenges.

Boundaries that grow with them

Establishing digital boundaries is important, but they work best when they’re created with your teen, not for them.

Mr Everett says digital boundaries shouldn’t be imposed, they should be agreed on as a family and evolve as your child grows.

“I encourage, as a family, having a conversation about what we think is reasonable based on your child’s age, developmental level and their interests,” he said.

“If your child is into gaming, for example, the conversation isn’t just about screen time; it’s about how that use affects their learning, wellbeing and social life.

“Revisit the boundaries regularly. Your willingness to listen and adapt helps your teen feel respected and understood.”

Know the signs

Sometimes, your child might be struggling in ways that aren’t immediately obvious.

Mr Everett says there’s a few key signs we want to look out for as parents and that is for any changes in their usual behaviour.

“Withdrawing from friends or activities, changes in sleeping or eating, a drop in academic performance. Those are all signs to pay attention to,” he says.

“Sometimes it’s hard to figure out, is this just normal teenage stuff or is it a sign of concern?

“You know your child best. Trust your instincts when something doesn’t feel right.”

Seeking help

When a child is struggling socially or emotionally, their behaviour may not look the same in every setting. They might seem withdrawn at home but engaged at school, or vice versa. That’s why it’s important to look at the full picture.

Mr Everett says act early and initiate contact with people that know your child well; not as well as you, but know them in other areas of their life.

“Teachers, coaches, mentors… they can help you understand if a change is consistent or context-specific.

"The school can be a really good point of contact in the first instance to help know what is the local support available to you.

"In some cases, support might come from your child’s GP, where they develop a mental health care plan or connect your child to local community services.”

Supporting your teen

Supporting your teen through adolescence, especially in the digital age, can feel overwhelming. But you don’t always need the answers, you just need to be available, stay curious and keep the conversation going.

Mr Everett says relationships, trust and empathy are your greatest tools.

“And when your teen knows they can come to you without fear, you’re already doing one of the most powerful things a parent can do,” he said.

If you or your child needs help:

Lifeline on 13 11 14

Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800

MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978

Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636

Headspace on 1800 650 890

ReachOut at au.reachout.com

Triple P 

The Department of Education offers free Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) seminars for parents and carers.

You can take part in a way that suits you:

• face-to-face sessions at schools and Child and Parent Centres
• Live online seminars
• Triple P Online – a self-paced program you can do anytime.

To find upcoming sessions or register for the free online program, visit:

• Triple P – Department of Education
• Positive parenting in Western Australia | Triple P

Further resources

For useful information to help children and young people stay safe online, visit eSafetyyoung people.

For advice for parents and carers to help kids stay safe online, visit eSafetyparents.

Free expert advice, coaching and support for parents and carers of teens in Australia, visit ReachOut for parents and carers.