In our previous Media Appreciation lesson, we were required to write about one of the branches belonging to the Limited Effects Theory. Therefore, I have chosen a theory that resonates a bit about my personality.
Currently, there are seven branches that make up the Limited Effects Theory. One of them is called the Uses and Gratification Approach. This theory comprises of four categories:
- cognition
- diversion
- social utility
- withdrawal
Like many teens, I grew up as a socially awkward kid. Self-esteem was also a bit of an issue. I detested going out, especially in crowded areas. My palms would get sweaty, and it was as if everyone was staring at me. Even small talk was absolute torture. I would replay past conversations and agonize over my words when in reality, I hadn't said anything wrong.
My demeanour didn't exactly scream "confident", either. My eyes were constantly directed towards the ground so much, that I could recognize a person through their footwear. I would also purposely rearrange my bangs in front of my face. Luckily, nobody mistook me as a 'pontianak', but they probably thought I didn't know of this great new invention called a 'comb'.
To sum it up, I voluntarily isolated myself from most social activities.
But of course, when you're alone, you get bored. To relieve myself of said boredom, I turned to books and the Internet. Both were methods of experiencing the world without actually having to live in it. To a teenage self-defeatist, that sounded like a wonderful alternative.
My experience wasn't specifically about Facebook. It was about the Internet as a whole. The Internet could answer all of my questions, make me laugh, and provide interesting insights that I couldn't have thought of myself. Why did I need any real-life friends? The Internet would always be there for me as long as my parents didn't forget to pay the telephone bill.
I withdrew myself from society. A barrier was erected between me and the rest of my community.
However, psychological experts have stressed that social media isn't the cause of depression, but it does worsen the mental disorder.
I don't believe I suffer from adolescent depression, but I do believe other teenagers are. According to a paper published by the Department of Psychology of Northern Illinois University, there are at least 1 in every 8 adolescents that are diagnosed with the disorder.
Based on a research by helpguide.org, one of the symptoms are feelings of worthlessness and guilt. Therefore, they place extreme importance on other people's opinions. What they think of themselves is secondary, the judgement of society is the priority.
Hurtful comments will inflict damage on their self-perception. Cyber bullying would definitely demolish their confidence. This dysfunction of the media perpetuates a vicious cycle.
The more I withdraw, the more isolated I become.
The more isolated I become, the more awkward I'll be.
The more awkward I am, the more frustrated I'll feel.
The more frustrated I feel, the more I withdraw.
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