Sometimes experiences collide in ways that are both jarring and instructive.
An example that struck me related to young people and their relationships with themselves and their world. I attended a concert by Adelaide Youth Orchestra where 73 young musicians between 12 and 24 years worked together under the baton of an older experienced conductor, to perform Tchaikovsky’s 6th symphony, leaving the audience impressed by their talent and professionalism. By contrast the Netflix mini-series Adolescence was recently released which follows the arrest of a 15-year-old for the stabbing murder of a young girl. Not a ‘who dunnit’, but a ‘why dunnit’ in its attempt to make sense of family relationships, peer and school experiences and the influence of the internet and manosphere.
Adolescence, the Mini-series
It is estimated that in the two weeks since its release, Adolescence has attracted 66 million viewers and extensive commentary and concern about both the series and the issues it raises. While not depicting one true story it is based on incidents where young boys have stabbed and murdered young girls and the role of family, school and especially social media. Michael Hogan of The Guardian referred to it as ‘a cautionary tale about getting teenagers off screens and engaging with real life again. A reminder that human contact and family time might help save them. A plea to support, talk and listen, not let them fall through the cracks and disappear down the digital rabbit hole.’ Samantha Schulz, associate professor of sociology of education at the University of Adelaide is quoted as saying there is a ’moral panic’ and that it is appropriate as people have not appreciated the magnitude and significance of the situation. Others have focused on schools and the everyday incidents of misogyny which are experienced by both peers and teachers.
A Concert
By contrast the young people of the Adelaide Youth Orchestra have a very different experience. Every week they rehearse together with an adult who they clearly like and admire and who has no hesitation in firmly yet kindly exercising authority. They learn to co-operate with both the conductor and their peers and respect and support each other. They speak of finding a place of acceptance with others who share their passion, the friendships formed with both girls and boys and mentorship by older members. It is assumed that they will have practiced and be ready to contribute.
Another Layer of Protection
The commentary about family relationships, monitoring young people’s engagement with social media and the pivotal role of schools is important. However, these experiences point to a wider society level of care that should also be considered. Not every child will have a passion for music but creating an external focus that engages young people with safe adult role models, encourages them away from devices and being trapped inside their own thoughts and emotions into an outside relational world of communication that can expand their horizons. Being part of a milieu of respect and safety encourages young people to replicate these values paving the way for a generation that inspires pride and hope for the future.
©Copyright Bower Place Pty. Ltd. 2025
