Individualism embodies a sense of self. It is the idea of being independent. Individualism promotes the development of self-identity and diversity.
With the ever-growing evolution of social media, is it important for high school students to maintain their individuality?
Individualism can come in many forms — dressing differently, having unique hobbies, or picking different electives than the person next to you.
High school students face challenges when it comes to developing their own voice. Students have to deal with the stereotypes of high school, social media, and general judgment from their peers when straying from the crowd.
Emily Pegram, sophomore, said, “If everyone is posting the same things, and everyone is just seeing that, they are only getting one perspective.”
If everyone is exposed to the same content, especially through the culture of trends and viral challenges, they may adopt the same perspective without a second thought. Individual voices can get drowned out if they do not fit the mainstream look.
New trends cycle through social media platforms every few weeks. Attempting to follow these trends can force a society where one demographic looks very similar.
Alex Cole, sophomore, said, “You’re going to try to match the trends and all that. It kind of takes away from your own self-power and the power to make choices if you fall prey and victim into these trends and cycles.”
Individualism creates different opinions and people, further benefiting society. The introduction of new ideas and opposing perspectives can cause productive challenges for people. The struggles that come with developing a strong sense of self give teenagers the tools to become their own functioning person.
If teenagers continuously rely on the opinions of their peers, they will struggle to make decisions and think critically in the real world.
Cole said, “If you are more diverse as a person, you are more set up to face challenges in your day-to-day life. If I have a growth mindset, then I am more willing and more able to face different challenges. You are able to help other people. You are more able to connect with other people if you yourself are a diverse person.”
The development of individualism, self-opinion, and student voice is important to the growth of our society. Conforming to social norms threatens the diversity of opinions.
If high school students continue to prioritize developing a sense of self, the future will be filled with strong and educated opinions.
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