"Generation Like": Identity Development in the Age of Social Media

Research has shown that children’s self-esteem often drops after they begin elementary school/ transition into high school, as they are exposed to several new challenges (social and academic) that fuel the need to compare themselves to their classmates (Ormond et al, 2010).

With the rising prevalence of social media, there seems to be an endless supply of people for which youth can now compare themselves to. The social construction of self in the age of social media is particularly fascinating as one’s development of self is being shaped by one’s online presence and behaviour. And, as much as the ‘likes’ on Facebook can make someone feel good or even important, the lack of ‘likes’ or attention online can make someone feel inferior or socially outcasted.

If you have the time I highly recommend watching Generation Like (Frontline) as it explores how the perennial teen's search for identity and connection has migrated to social media platforms. It does a great job at also examining the ways corporations are using young consumers to advance their products.

As such, I think it is critical that teachers and schools remain cognizant of the competitive side of social media and its impact(s) on teen self-concept and identity development. In helping students develop positive self-concepts, I think teachers can help minimize the culture of competition within their classrooms and foster a safe climate of acceptance whereby no one risks feeling inferior (Ibid, 2010).

References

Frank Koughan & Douglas Rushkoff (Writers) &Tim Mangini (Director). (February 18, 2014). Generation Like [Television series episode]. Frontline. WGBH/Boston: WGBH Educational Foundation.Ormond, J. E., Saklofske, D.

H., Schwean, V. L., Andrews, J. J. W., & Shore, B. M. (2010). “Chapter 3: Personal, Social and Moral Development” in Principles of Educational Psychology, Second Canadian Edition, 2e. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education Canada.