Is it possible to create a TV series that talks about mental health, identity, and sexuality among young people, all while offering an educational perspective? And above all, what impact might such a show have on its viewers?
In this blog post, I’m going to explore these questions by analysing the Netflix series Sex Education, which is just now in its fourth and final season.
The Show: An Overview
For those who haven’t watched “Sex Education” yet, it’s a TV series set at Moordale High, an English high school. The main characters are the students who attend that school and the adults, particularly parents, who often clash with the world of young people. At first glance, these characters may appear to be the typical clichés found in teenage films: the classic smart and nerdy boy, the handsome and athletic guy, the fashionable girl… In short, nothing new in the Netflix scenario. However, what sets the series apart right from the start is precisely its approach to narrating the lives and experiences of these adolescents.
A New Way of Exploring Intimacy
The main protagonist and narrator, Otis, isn’t just an ordinary teenager. He also happens to be the son of a sex therapist, Dr. Jean Milburn. He decides to secretly open a sex clinic within the school to give advice on matters of sexuality and affectivity to his peers. Through the intimate conversations that take place within the clinic, the show sheds light on questions about sexuality and identity. Viewers come face-to-face with a multitude of issues that are especially significant among young people who may not always have the opportunity to discuss, confront, or inform themselves about them.
The themes dealt with in the show include family dynamics, questions of gender identity, abortion, the anxieties surrounding first sexual experiences, sexually transmitted diseases, LBGTQ+ love, and much more. What’s brilliant about this show is its ability to address these topics naturally and realistically, often with a touch of humour, all without falling into the trap of clichés. Besides the plot and the cast, “Sex Education” is an authentic representation of the intricate and intimate journey of many adolescents. Confronted with these matters, the audience realises the complexity that often underlies sexual experiences and maybe reflects on the importance of communication.
The impact on Society
“Sex education” is an example of how TV series can have a positive influence on society, particularly when it comes to addressing topics often brushed aside.
Unfortunately, not all the students receive adequate sex education classes in their school, and many families still struggle with open conversations about pleasure and intimacy. This raises some questions: where can they find answers to their questions? How can they educate themselves? It’s here that the power of new media comes into play.
Given the large audience they reach, TV series can potentially impact thousands of young people. On the one hand, they may find answers to questions that they hesitate to ask for out of shame or insecurity, especially when delving into personal and private life. On the other hand, they may feel the need for intimate communication with people who are more experienced in these domains. While it’s not my intention to compare the role of institutions in providing formal sex education with that of a Netflix comedy, it is undeniable that shows like “Sex Education” can be an effective informative tool.
Furthermore, shows with such remarkable success can lead to reflections regarding sex education as a whole. For some, the relevance of this education isn’t immediately. However, the popularity of this show can open people’s eyes to the need for more comprehensive and authentic sexual education.
What’s even more exemplary is that “Sex Education” addresses a great number of topics that tend to be marginalised. This includes dealing with issues relating to disability and gender identity. By engaging with these matters, the series takes a significant step towards breaking social taboos and spreading a more inclusive society.
Do you think TV series can redefine the way we address complex topics like sexuality or mental health? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Amazing post! I definitely agree that TV shows that address such topics are necessary to show the younger generations that asking these kinds of questions is normal and okay. I haven’t watched the newest season yet, but I remember watching the previous ones and being really happy that some of my struggles are being included, especially in such a mature way. For kids from countries where sex education is outdated or simply not available, representation like this really matters!
Just recently started the final season and have been following the show for a minute, so seeing this post was really interesting. I do agree that Sex Education does a good job of showing these topics, especially even the heavier ones, in a way that is much more digestible for a younger (but also older) audience. It definitely does make things easier to talk about I think, at least for some people. Even though there were many times where I cringed away at the sheer explicitness of the show, I think it still offers a good perspective on sexuality and intimacy, as you said. Whether it can redefine how we approach these topics in the real world, I’m unsure. I think it depends a lot on where in the world such a new approach to sex education could be implemented, as context such as culture and religion do always play a role. What I do hope is that perhaps it could help families broach these topics (especially between parents and kids) a bit more openly. Whether or not that will actually happen, I can’t say. Great post!