New Delhi: Netflix’s four-episode mini-series Adolescence has taken the world by storm. With its intense single-take cinematography and incredible cast, the series has left the audience in awe. Crime-centric films often put a viewer into deep thought, trying to analyse every scene and action to understand the mind of a killer. This series delves into the story of a 13-year-old, Jamie Miller, who is charged with the murder of his classmate Katie. The interrogation-style narrative puts the viewers on edge, experiencing Jamie’s rawness, tension and guilt.

A particular scene from episode three has sparked a widespread discussion. In the scene, the psychologist who is assigned to understand Jami’s motives is disgusted by a simple sandwich. While this might not seem like a big deal, with context to the episode, it becomes a turning point. If you missed the symbolism, we’re here to help you decode it.

Netflix’s Adolescence – the sandwich symbolism

For context, in Adolescence episode three, the court-appointed psychologist, Briony, offers Jamie half of her cheese and pickle sandwich during a therapy session. While the scene might not register as something ground-breaking, it does hold quite the significance. It should be noted that the sandwich contains something Jamie dislikes; this could be seen as Briony’s subtle attempt to test Jamie’s reaction.

Sonal Khangarot, a licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, told the Indian Express“As a psychologist, she was likely fostering rapport and creating a safe space, which is crucial for effective therapy. Given that it was her final session, she used the time to observe Jamie’s reactions and assertiveness, which could contribute to her treatment findings.”

These findings could lead to more information on Jamie’s resistance to her, his reactions to aversions or even provoke a response. It is assumed that as a therapist who deals with people accused of serious crimes, she would be emotionally resilient and detached from the situation. However, after the session, when she goes to clear the table, she is visibly disgusted by Jamie’s half-eaten sandwich. This not only suggests her being disturbed by Jamie’s views but also Briony reclaiming her composure after an unsettling conversation with a 13-year-old.

Meanwhile, another side suggests that the sandwich represents Briony’s hopes for Jamie, or what he could become, but ultimately, she is forced to let go by the end of the series.

What do you think? Are there any other symbolic meanings you could spot?