Social media has taken over the lives of many American teenagers, leading to a multitude of negative effects. Filmmaker Lauren Greenfield’s new documentary series, “Social Studies,” delves into the online world of Gen Z youths, highlighting the challenges and pressures they face on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Despite being aware of the detrimental impacts of social media, these teenagers find it difficult to disconnect from their online presence.
The documentary showcases the struggles of young people aged 16 to 20 as they navigate the complexities of growing up in a digital age. From body image issues to the influence of graphic pornography, the show offers a candid look at the ways in which social media has distorted the process of adolescence. Through personal smartphone accounts, viewers witness the constant pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and seek validation through likes and comments.
Discussion circles between the teenagers reveal the internal conflicts they face between their online personas and their true selves. Many express feelings of inadequacy, harassment, and the need to live up to societal expectations perpetuated by social media. The series sheds light on the mental health crisis brewing among hyper-connected young people, prompting calls for regulation and awareness about the harmful effects of excessive social media use.
While “Social Studies” does highlight some positive aspects of social media, such as connecting marginalized individuals with a sense of community, the overall tone is one of disorientation and anxiety. The lack of regulation and oversight on social media platforms is a major concern, with experts calling for warning labels and restrictions on smartphone use in schools. Collective action is deemed necessary to address the mental health implications of excessive social media consumption among teenagers.
As the first generation born into a world dominated by social media, Gen Z youths are navigating uncharted territory when it comes to their online presence. The series serves as a wake-up call for parents, educators, and policymakers to take action in protecting the well-being of young people in a digital age. By listening to the voices of the teenagers themselves, “Social Studies” offers a raw and unfiltered perspective on the challenges and struggles faced by today’s youth in the era of social media.
