The film is a surreal, sometimes dreamlike depiction of the transition from childhood to adolescence. Set in an isolated forest, it follows three young characters—Fabrizio, Laura, and Silvia—as they explore the complexities of their changing bodies and emotions. The narrative is heavily symbolic, focusing on the loss of innocence and the darker, manipulative side of early sexuality.

"Maladolescenza" is a complex and thought-provoking film that has sparked a range of reactions from viewers. While some have praised the film for its bold and unflinching portrayal of teenage angst, others have criticized it for its explicit content and perceived misogyny. On IMDB, the film has a rating of 6.4/10, reflecting a nuanced and multifaceted assessment of its merits and flaws. Whether seen as a landmark of Italian cinema or a relic of a bygone era, "Maladolescenza" remains a film that challenges and provokes its viewers, inviting them to reflect on the complexities and challenges of adolescence.

Due to the nature of the content and the legal restrictions surrounding it in many regions, it remains one of the most controversial entries in 1970s European cinema.