Adolescence: The Hidden Meanings Behind Seemingly Trivial Moments in the Netflix Series

In a powerful scene from the third episode of Netflix’s Adolescence, psychologist Brioni Ariston tells 13-year-old Jamie Miller, who is awaiting trial for the murder of his classmate Katie, that she has saved him half of her sandwich with pickles. Observant viewers interpreted this as a deliberate move to test Jamie’s reaction, especially since he dislikes pickles—and they are correct. Dr. Sheila Redfern, a child psychologist, analyzes the deeper meanings behind these seemingly insignificant moments in Adolescence, which has sparked intense discussions. Commenting on the sandwich scene in the mini-series, she told the Daily Mail: ‘As a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience working with children and teenagers, I know that very little happens by chance in a psychological setting.’ Through the portrayal of a 13-year-old suspect, police investigations, and therapy sessions, the series explores toxic masculinity, bullying, and the impact of social media on teenage mental health. Dr. Redfern explains: ‘I’ve seen hundreds of teens dragged down by excessive internet use, pornography, and toxic masculinity, traits I recognized in Jamie’s character—who stabbed a girl because he felt offended.’ While she hasn’t handled a case involving a child murderer, she has worked with several youths whose violence and misogyny have alarmed her. In every session, she uses specific techniques to assess her patient’s personality and understand what drives them. So, what do these seemingly trivial objects and actions in Adolescence signify, and how can they help us comprehend Jamie’s horrific crime? The sandwich with cheese and pickles represents a psychological technique used to make Jamie feel more comfortable. By sharing her food, Brioni subtly suggests solidarity and willingness to see things from his perspective. Offering something he dislikes—pickles—appears to be a test of his reaction. Jamie initially relaxes but later reacts aggressively to Brioni’s questions, revealing his dual nature. Many traumatized children explode unpredictably, often behaving ‘normally’ until triggered. Regarding Brioni’s choice to offer Jamie food he dislikes, Dr. Redfern notes: ‘I’m unsure if this tactic is wise; no psychologist I know would deliberately provoke during an interview with a child.’ When Brioni meets Jamie at the juvenile detention center, she offers him hot chocolate—a common practice among psychologists to help children relax and open up. Jamie seems to appreciate Brioni treating him like a child, showing he still has an innocent side. However, Dr. Redfern explains that offering hot drinks could risk being thrown, especially when dealing with aggressive teens, as almost happens in the series. Even Brioni’s clothing—an unassuming blue shirt and pants—is a calculated choice. ‘When working with teens dealing with sexual issues and misogyny, I avoid anything provocative. I aim to appear professional and respectful,’ concludes Dr. Redfern.