Contemporary adolescence and the media spectacularization of school violence

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to discuss how the impasses of contemporary adolescence in a context of dominance of neoliberal discourse in schools can result in the manifestation of acts of violence. We present how adolescence has become a cultural ideal for embodying the neoliberal ideals of freedom and full satisfaction. We point out the difficulties in crossing adolescence due to body changes, reframing relationships with parents and the need to rebuild the social bond. Finally, we discuss how school violence can erupt from the intensification of relations between teachers and students as an effect of neoliberal attacks on basic education.