Out of This World: Teenagers in the Digital Age
Teenagers often get a bad rap, with headlines focusing on their 'out of this world' mischievous antics, like touching strangers' private parts or reacting to disturbing vocalizations. However, in the digital age, teenagers have a platform that can make them seem almost otherworldly to their peers and parents alike. Let’s explore how the Internet has transformed how teenagers interact with the world.
Chasing Followers: Overnight Success
One of the most mind-boggling phenomena in the social media world is the overnight success of teenagers who gain massive followings within hours. This can happen with a simple post, such as a picture of dessert, a video of their nighttime jog, or a snap of their outfit plans. In one remarkable case, a teenager gained 2.3 million followers overnight, racking up 1.5 million followers, 400,000 likes, and 14,000 shares within the first day. They not only made a significant amount of money, but they also splurged on the latest iPhone before school the next day, given their newfound financial freedom. This is a stark contrast to the typical teenage scenarios of just logging onto TikTok, posting videos, and gaining followers consistently over time.
They quickly leveraged their growing audience by live-streaming their bus ride back home, gaining a further 800 followers and 60,000 more likes, and 1,600 shares. By 21:30, they were bored and spent the night scrolling through TikTok until the early hours of the morning, finally finishing homework. By 05:30, they were back home, bored once again, with their outfit planned for the day ahead. This teenager's journey has been an endless cycle of teenage life, but with a twist of digital stardom.
Idiot Challenges and Impulsive Actions
Another way in which teenagers seem out of this world is through various idiotic challenges. One such example is the infamous 'Touching Stranger Wee-Wee' pranks, which gained notoriety through platforms like TikTok. However, it’s worth noting that these actions, while shocking, are not all they do. In a broader context, teenagers have faced alternative, perhaps less public, but no less impactful challenges, such as brawls or even provoking law enforcement, as seen in some accounts.
For instance, a story from New York City told of a teenager who used to beat up policemen with his gang. He rightfully decided to move away and provide a better living environment for his younger sister, starting a new life in a different community and obtaining a massage therapy certification. These actions challenge the stereotype of teenagers as mindless troublemakers and highlight the complex decisions they can make and the paths they can take to better their circumstances.
Extraordinary Teens: Beyond the Mischievous
It is important to acknowledge that while some teenagers may get a reputation for being out of this world with their antics, others can be just as extraordinary in their own right. Teenagers have a range of talents and abilities that can be showcased and celebrated. From athletes and artists, to scientists and entrepreneurs, there are countless ways in which teenagers can make an impact on the world.
Sometimes, teenagers surpass the achievements of adults, and at other times, their achievements fall short. However, what remains clear is that, on average, teenagers have the potential to leave a mark on the world and should be given the opportunity to express themselves and pursue their passions.
The digital age has provided a platform for teenagers to showcase their talents, start successful careers, and make a positive impact on the world. It is important to recognize and celebrate this potential and not to diminish them with stereotypes and misconceptions.