Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that although this British series focuses on the lives of a group of upper middle-class teens, the show's content is controversial and decidedly adult. Both teens and adults engage in various simulated sexual acts, drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes, and deal and use prescription drugs and marijuana; most don't suffer too many consequences for their iffy behavior. Expect plenty of talk about sex and virginity, partial male and female nudity (some is blurred out), and lots of profanity (words like "t-ts" and "s--t" are audible, while "f--k" is muted). The series also touches on some serious subjects, like anorexia and peer pressure.

Sexual Content

Having sex and losing virginity are frequent topics of discussion. Various simulated sex acts are visible, though nudity is limited. Partial male and female nudity (buttocks and breasts are visible; painted images of female genitals are sometimes shown). Words like "p---y" and "dick" are used frequently. Tony calls Michelle "Nips" after seeing her breasts.

Violence

Arguments sometimes break out among the teens, which result in the occasional punch, kick, or food fight.

Language

Lots of strong language, ranging from "t-ts" and "bitch" to "s--t" (unbleeped). The word "f--k" is muted out for U.S. broadcast.

Social Behavior

Although there's plenty of iffy behavior on display in every episode of this unflinchingly realistic series (much of it without serious consequence), it's clear that the characters care about each other and are close and loyal friends.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Frequent cigarette smoking (which is common on British television), drinking (the legal age is lower in Britain), and drug use -- including prescription pills and marijuana (referred to as "spliff" and "skunk").