The show addressed several topical issues like date rape , alcoholism , domestic violence , gay rights , drug abuse , teenage suicide , AIDS , and teenage pregnancy . In addition to chronicling the friendships and romantic relationships of a group of closely-knit teenagers , the show also addressed numerous topical issues including date rape , alcoholism , domestic violence , gay rights , anti-Semitism , gay parenting , drug abuse , teenage suicide , AIDS , teenage pregnancy , bulimia and abortion .