Editor's Pick
Women Authors And The Pen They Yield: Women’s Day Special
Celebrating Women’s Day by glancing at some of the most fierce women authors of India, who’ve yielded powerful voices through their pens.
The literary canon has been conventionally a male dominated space since time immemorial. Reading and writing was a luxury for women. However, it is a fact known that writings out of women planted a fresh perspective to the world around us than it was originally preserved and continued by men. These writings envisioned a space for women, and their perspective towards the world, which was obviously influenced by their own experiences of womanhood, domesticity, suppression, emancipation, etc. was introduced in the mainstream discourse. Over the years, women authors have come through and across, and fiercely penned down some of the best pieces of literature, prose, poems and theories. India has borne some of the most critically acclaimed women writers, who’ve delivered exceptional literary pieces. This Women’s Day, we celebrate these writers, one at a time.
Jhumpa Lahiri
Jhumpa Lahiri is a Pulitzer prize-winning author. Her works are resplendent and reminiscent of the diasporic lives of Indian migrant families. Jhumpa Lahiri’s writing style captures the non-translatable universal emotions of longing and loneliness in a space away from the homeland. Her debut novel, ‘The Namesake’ was a brilliantly poignant story of identity, home, migration and loss. Jhumpa Lahiri brings the unnoticed on the pages and through a string of rhythmic writing makes the reader immerse into the realm of cultural conflicts, women’s lives, and a search for one’s own self.
Meena Kandasamy
Ilavenil Meena Kandasamy is a poet, writer and an activist. She has written a plethora of fierce works centered around women and Dalit experiences. Meena Kandasamy’s debut novel, ‘The Gypsy Goddess’ is a powerful fiction based on the massacre that took place in the village of Kilvenmani on Christmas day, 1968. The story is weaved around the plight of Dalit agricultural workers in South India, and explores caste, poverty and violence. Some of her other works include, When I Hit You: Or, A Portrait of the Writer as a Young Wife, The Orders Were to Rape You, Ms. Militancy, etc. Meena Kandasamy extends sharp critique and a nuanced understanding of the depravities around us, and delivers that in an exquisite language.
Mamang Dai
Mamang Dai is a poet and a novelist from Arunachal Pradesh and a former member of the Indian Administrative Service. She left the service to pursue full time career in journalism and writing. Mamang Dai’s short story collection, ‘Legends of Pensam’ narrates the customs, traditions and superstitions of the Adi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Meanwhile her poems are another realm of simplicity bound with an undertones of symbolisms and the human realities. While her poems speak lyrical reflections of the snow-capped and forest brimmed terrain of her home state, it also reminds the readers that the paradise landscape is stained by violence, guns, and the anxiety and fear that comes with it.
Madhuri Vijay
Bengaluru born Madhuri Vijay published her debut novel, ‘The Far Field’ in 2019. Her debut work instantly became critically acclaimed, giving her the JCB Prize for Literature that same year, which, by the way, is India’s most prestigious literary award. The book was also shortlisted for the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2019 and for the Tata Literature Live! First Book Award (Fiction) 2019. Madhuri Vijay incorporates the story of Shalini, who has just lost her mother. The grief of the inconsolable loss motivates her to travel to a remote village in Kashmir in search of answers and memories. Coming from a privileged city and thrust in a volatile and politically charged place, Shalini has to make a series of grave decisions.
Anita Desai
Anita Desai is a culmination of all hues of literary works and accomplishments. She is a novelist, short story writer and children’s writer, for which she has won many accolades. The Guardian Children’s Fiction prize is one of them. Anita Desai is a magical writer. She plays around with piquant visual imagery and dwells beautifully in bringing forth the inner mood, desires and dynamics of the character and the character’s surroundings. Anita Desai’s work has also sharply portrayed women’s desires, feelings, actions and their struggle from freedom within and beyond.
Mahasweta Devi
Mahasweta Devi has been the voice of the marginalized communities of the country, more specifically, the indigenous population of India. She has yielded sharp criticism on the injustices meted out to the oppressed communities. Through her works like Rudali, Draupadi and Hajar Churashir Maa, Mahasweta Devi has vocalized the imbalance of opportunities and the consequent violence that women and tribal people have had to face. Devi has contributed immensely to the Bengali literature. Mahasweta Devi uses simple language to make the reader conscious about the complex realities of culture and social practices, social hierarchies, identity formations, sexual and domestic roles, and power dynamics.
Githa Harihan
Githa Harihan’s most critically acclaimed novel, ‘The Thousand Faces of the Night’, published in 1992, won the Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best First Book in 1993. She wrote this piece during her maternity leave. The novel weaves the stories of the women of three generations torn and tied between tradition and modernism. Githa has also penned down short stories and essays, many of which voice the struggles, lives and mood of the marginalised females of India.
Editor's Pick
Satyajit Ray: Author And Filmmaker
Celebrating the Legacy with a profound sense of awe and respect for a Visionary Filmmaker and Author- Satyajit Ray
When we hear Satyajit Ray, we are filled with a profound sense of awe and respect for the man whose works continue to inspire generations. Born on May 2, 1921, in the vibrant city of Calcutta, he emerged as a luminary in Bengali cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the global cinematic landscape.
Ray’s entry into the world of cinema was marked by a fortuitous encounter with French film director Jean Renoir during “The River” filming in Calcutta in 1949. This meeting, coupled with his exposure to Vittorio De Sica’s “Bicycle Thieves” in London the following year, ignited his passion for storytelling through film.
In 1955, Ray made his directing debut with “Pather Panchali,” a film that would not only revolutionise Indian cinema but also captivate audiences worldwide. Over the years of his illustrious career, Ray directed 36 films, ranging from feature films to short films and documentaries. Each of his creations bore the hallmarks of his unique vision, craftsmanship, and deep understanding of human emotions.
While Satyajit Ray’s work gathered widespread critical acclaim, it also faced its fair share of controversies. His films “Pather Panchali” and “Ashani Sanket” were harshly criticised for allegedly portraying poverty and distorting India’s image abroad. Yet, Ray’s unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling and cinematic excellence, despite these challenges, is truly inspiring.
One of Satyajit Ray’s most iconic achievements is the “Apu Trilogy”, consisting of “Pather Panchali”, “Aparajio”, and “Apur Sansar”. Time magazine recognised the trilogy as one of the “All-Time 100 Movies” in 2005, solidifying its status as a cinematic masterpiece for the ages.
Beyond his filmmaking, Satyajit Ray was a true Renaissance man. He composed music, wrote screenplays and authored numerous short stories and novels, many of which were beloved by children and adolescents. His writing, often filled with wonder and nostalgia, was a testament to his deep connection to his Bengali heritage and his innate storytelling ability.
Ray’s influence went beyond his native country, India. He is resonating with filmmakers worldwide. His visionary storytelling and unwavering commitment to artistic integrity have left an indelible mark on Wes Anderson, Martin Scorsese, François Truffaut and Christopher Nolan, among others. His legacy, a testament to the power of storytelling, continues to captivate audiences across the globe.
Editor's Pick
From FOMO to JOMO
From “Fear of missing out” to “Joy of missing out”, find contentment in your own experiences, whether shared or solitary.
Have you ever been in a situation where you feared you’re missing out on something? Maybe you see your friends posting stories of hanging out together and you suddenly feel down, sad and lonely. This feeling of being left out is Fomo.
Fomo refers to the “Fear of Missing Out”, where a person feels the need to be a part of something and feels unpleasant about seeing something happening without their presence. FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out, is common in today’s interconnected world. It can strike when you see others enjoying experiences you’re not part of, whether friends hanging out or colleagues attending an event. The fear of being left behind or not included can lead to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and inadequacy. Social media often exacerbates FOMO with its constant stream of curated highlights from others’ lives. Overcoming FOMO involves recognising that everyone’s journey is different and finding contentment in your own experiences, whether shared or solitary.
Psychological impact of FOMO
1. Anxiety and Stress: Imagine scrolling through social media and seeing your friends attending a concert you didn’t know about. Suddenly, you feel anxious about not being there, worrying about what you’re missing out on and whether you’ll still be included in future plans. FOMO can trigger anxiety and stress as individuals constantly worry about missing out on experiences or opportunities. The fear of not measuring up to others’ standards or being left behind can lead to persistent feelings of unease and tension, impacting mental well-being.
2. Decreased Self-Esteem: You come across photos of your acquaintances on a luxurious vacation while you’re stuck at home. You start questioning your own worth and accomplishments, feeling inferior because your life doesn’t seem as glamorous or exciting. Constant exposure to others’ seemingly exciting lives on social media can diminish self-esteem. Comparing oneself to others’ highlight reels often leads to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, eroding confidence over time.
3. Social Isolation: Paradoxically, FOMO can contribute to social isolation. Fear of missing out can lead individuals to prioritize online interactions over real-life connections, ultimately distancing themselves from meaningful relationships and experiences. You decline invitations to social events because you’re constantly monitoring social media, afraid of missing out on updates or opportunities. Over time, you find yourself spending more time online than engaging in real-life interactions, leading to a sense of loneliness and disconnection.
4. Poor Decision Making: FOMO can influence decision-making processes, leading to impulsive behavior. Individuals may make choices based on the fear of missing out rather than on their genuine desires or values, potentially leading to regrettable outcomes. You impulsively purchase concert tickets for a band you’re not particularly interested in because you’re afraid of missing out on the experience your friends are excited about. Later, you realize you’ve wasted money on something that didn’t align with your true preferences or values.
5. Dissatisfaction and Discontent: Continuously chasing after experiences to avoid missing out can result in a perpetual sense of dissatisfaction. Despite participating in various activities, individuals may still feel unfulfilled, as the underlying fear of missing out prevents them from appreciating the present moment. Despite attending numerous events and activities, you can’t shake the feeling that something is missing. You’re constantly searching for the next big thing to be a part of, unable to fully enjoy or appreciate the present moment because you’re preoccupied with what you might be missing elsewhere.
What is Jomo?
While FOMO is straining and exhausting, there is a new approach to missing out on things called JOMO, or “Joy of Missing Out”. JOMO, or the “Joy of Missing Out,” is a refreshing counter to the anxiety and stress caused by FOMO. It’s about embracing the idea that missing out on specific events or experiences is okay and finding contentment in your choices. Rather than constantly feeling pressure to be part of every social gathering or activity, JOMO encourages individuals to prioritise their well-being and happiness.
At its core, JOMO is about cultivating a sense of fulfilment and peace by focusing on what truly matters to you. It involves being present at the moment and savouring the joy of solitude, self-care, and meaningful connections. Instead of anxiously scrolling through social media feeds to see what others are doing, those embracing JOMO take pleasure in life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s enjoying a quiet evening at home, pursuing a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones. By embracing the joy of missing out on specific events or activities, individuals may experience reduced stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. Instead of constantly comparing themselves to others or needing to keep up with the latest trends, they can cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment, appreciating the richness of their lives. JOMO is a mindset shift that celebrates the beauty of being present, embracing solitude, and finding joy in the moments of life that others might overlook. It encourages individuals to slow down, unplug from the world’s constant noise, and reconnect with themselves and the things that truly bring them happiness. By embracing JOMO, people can create a more balanced and fulfilling life that prioritises their well-being and inner peace.
How to turn FOMO to JOMO?
It is certainly possible to turn FOMO to JOMO while accepting one’s own shortcomings and enjoy what gives happiness while practicing the following steps.
1. Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate awareness of your thoughts and emotions when experiencing FOMO. Instead of allowing FOMO to dictate your actions, pause and reflect on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. Mindfulness techniques such as meditation or journaling can help you reconnect with your values and priorities, allowing you to make decisions from a place of authenticity rather than fear.
2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to activities or invitations that don’t align with your values or goals. Establishing boundaries empowers you to prioritize self-care and meaningful experiences, reducing the pressure to constantly be part of every social gathering or event. By honoring your boundaries, you can create space for the activities and relationships that truly bring you joy and fulfillment.
3. Practice Gratitude: Shift your focus from what you’re missing out on to what you’re grateful for in the present moment. Keep a gratitude journal or regularly reflect on the blessings in your life, whether it’s cherished relationships, personal accomplishments, or moments of serenity. Cultivating gratitude can help you appreciate the richness of your own experiences and find joy in the moments that others might overlook, turning FOMO into a celebration of the joy of missing out.
In conclusion, the journey from FOMO to JOMO represents a profound shift in mindset that has the potential to impact our well-being and overall satisfaction with life profoundly. By recognising the detrimental effects of FOMO and embracing the principles of JOMO, individuals can take over their experiences, relationships, and happiness. Through mindfulness, individuals can cultivate a more profound sense of self-awareness and intentionality, allowing them to make choices that align with their values and priorities. Setting boundaries becomes a powerful tool for preserving energy and focusing on what truly matters, fostering a sense of empowerment and autonomy. Additionally, practising gratitude serves as a powerful antidote to the constant cycle of comparison and dissatisfaction, helping individuals find joy and fulfilment in the present moment. Therefore, the significance of turning FOMO into JOMO lies in its ability to foster a more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling life. It encourages us to shift our focus from external validation and fleeting experiences to the richness of our inner world and the connections that truly nourish us. By embracing the joy of missing out on certain activities or events, we open ourselves up to a world of possibility and serenity, free from the pressures of constant comparison and competition. In embracing JOMO, we discover that true happiness lies not in chasing after every opportunity but in savouring the moments of quiet contentment, deep connection, and authentic self-expression that make life truly meaningful.
Editor's Pick
Parkinson’s Awareness Month
It’s a time to raise awareness, dispel myths, and foster understanding. Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of Parkinson’s.
Parkinson’s Awareness Month, observed annually in April, serves as a vital reminder of the challenges faced by millions worldwide living with Parkinson’s disease. As advocates for mental health, it’s imperative to shine a spotlight on Parkinson’s as it affects physical and psychological health and also significantly impacts the well-being of those around them.
DISCLAIMER: THE CONTENT PROVIDED HERE IS FOR INFORMATION AND AWARENESS PURPOSES ONLY. FOR MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS PLEASE CONTACT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.
Understanding Parkinson’s:
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative condition with tremors, stiffness, slow movements, and balance issues. Doctors diagnose it by observing these symptoms. Treatment restores dopamine with medication, deep brain stimulation, or surgery- Rajput and Noyes (2024).
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. However, its impact extends far beyond physical limitations. Individuals with Parkinsons’ Disease often experience a plethora of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment and sleep disturbances. These psychological challenges can exacerbate the burden of living with Parkinson’s, leading to a feeling of decreased quality of life and increased caregiver stress.
Dispelling Myths and Stigma:
One of the biggest myths that we have come across in our line of work is the misconception that Parkinson’s is an “Old Person’s Disease”. It can affect individuals of all ages, including young adults and children. By dispelling these myths and combatting stigma, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those living with Parkinson’s and their families.
Empowering Hope Through Education:
By increasing awareness and understanding of the disease, we empower individuals to seek early diagnosis, access appropriate treatment and engage in proactive self-care strategies. Moreover, education fosters empathy and compassion, encouraging communities to rally behind those affected by Parkinson’s and provide much-needed support.
Supporting Mental Health:
By advocating for mental health awareness, we recognise the impact of Parkinson’s on psychological well-being. Individuals with Parkinsons’ Disease may struggle with feelings of isolation, frustration and fear about the future. It’s crucial to prioritise mental health support services such as counselling, support groups and peer mentorship programmes to address the emotional needs of those living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.
Taking Action:
Going forward, from this Parkinson’s Awareness Month, let’s unite in solidarity to amplify our voices, advocate for research funding and champion policy changes that improve the lives of individuals with Parkinson’s. Together, we can break down barriers, foster understanding and create a world where those living with Parkinson’s are supported, empowered and celebrated for their resilience and strength.
By shining a light on its impact on mental health, we can create a beacon of hope and solidarity. Together, we can inspire hope and make a difference in the lives of millions worldwide.
Editor's Pick
Brij Narayan: Mastering the Melody of Sarod
Journey through the life and music of Brij Narayan, an Indian sarod virtuoso who mesmerises the world with his soulful tunes.
Brij Narayan is a renowned Indian classical musician who is celebrated for his mastery of the sarod. His musical journey, spanning decades, reflects dedication, talent and a deep-rooted passion for classical music.
Early Life:
Brij Narayan was born into a family deeply entrenched in classical music on April 25th 1952. His father, the legendary sarangi player Ram Narayan, imparted musical wisdom from an early age. At the age of 7, young Brij picked up the sarod. He was inspired by its harmonious blend of melody and percussion. Despite brief tutelage under notable musicians like Ali Akbar Khan, Brij returned to his father’s guidance, recognising the invaluable legacy he inherited.
Career Highlights:
Narayans’ musical prowess blossomed early, earning him accolades such as the President’s Gold medal at the All India Radio Instrumentalist Competition in 1967. Narayan embarked on a journey across continents after graduating from the University of Mumbai in 1972. He faced prestigious stages such as the Munich Olympics to concert halls in Africa, Europe and America.
Brij Narayan collaborated with renowned artists like Zakir Hussain, who explored diverse musical landscapes. His foray into cinema as a performer and composer added new dimensions to his artistic repertoire. Notable contributions include his role in the 1978 film “Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki” and composing music for the 1988 film “The Bengali Night.”
Recognition wasn’t far and followed Narayan’s unwavering commitment to his craft. Awards such as the Dagar Gharana Award and the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Hindustani instrumental music- Sarod underscored his influence on Indian classical music. Music critics, including Neil Sorrell, lauded Narayan as one of the foremost sarod players of his time, cementing his legacy in the annals of classical music history.
Family and Legacy:
Behind the curtain, Brij Narayan cherishes family and nurtures the next generation of musicians. His son, Harsh Narayan, following his father and grandfather’s footsteps, embraces the sarangi with equal passion. Together, they enchant audiences, continuing the musical legacy passed down through generations. Narayan’s commitment to music extends beyond performing; through the Pt Ram Narayan Foundation, he empowers aspiring musicians by offering scholarships to Sarangi students.
Brij Narayan’s journey epitomises the essence of classical music- a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. His virtuosity on the sarod and contributions to Indian Classical music enrich cultural landscapes worldwide. He is leaving an indelible mark on future generations.
Editor's Pick
Social Conformity in Teenagers
Discover the impact of social conformity on teens and how to empower them through peer pressure, family support, and digital resilience.
Social Conformity is a widely known human phenomena which elucidates us as social beings. It is the variability of the person to “conform” which is give-in to the situation happening around them so they do not feel embarrassed or feel different and confronted with others in the same situation . For example, when in a social group, you are asked about the famous movie “Charlie and the chocolate factory” and everyone around you has watched it. The tendency to “conform” to watching it even though you haven’t is much more than admitting to them that you didn’t. This phenomenon is known as Social Conformity. It is the inclination for the person to “fit in” to the social norms where you may feel different and also not the same as everyone around you.
We have all been in situations which may have led us to socially conform and the frequency of this phenomenon differs from person to person. As a whole, Social Conformity is a human tendency noticed in abundance in teenagers. Teenagers are age groups ranging from 13-19 who are hormonal and have their own wants and needs developed during this phase leading them to also conform to social pressure.
There are two types of Conformity, which are:
Normative social conformity: Conforming to social norms and expectations to gain acceptance, approval, or avoid rejection or punishment. Normative social influence is driven by the desire to fit in with others and maintain social harmony, rather than a genuine belief in the correctness of the behavior. Imagine a high school student attending a party where alcohol is being served. Even though they don’t personally believe in underage drinking, they might feel pressured to have a drink because everyone else is doing it, and they want to fit in and avoid being seen as “uncool” or socially awkward.
Informational social conformity: Conforming to the beliefs or behaviors of others because of a desire to be correct or accurate in uncertain or ambiguous situations. Individuals may look to others for guidance or information when they are unsure about how to behave or interpret a situation. Suppose someone is attending a cooking class for the first time and is unsure about how to properly chop vegetables. They observe the instructor and other participants, noting their techniques and following their lead to ensure they are doing it correctly. In this scenario, the individual relies on the expertise of others to learn the skill effectively.
Cognitive Perspective
Cognitive refers to the brain processes (attention, perception, decision-making) in humans and a cognitive perspective is necessary to understand the underlying brain processes that involve when a person is demonstrating the phenomena of social conformity. It gives an insight into how and what really leads a person to conform which is found to be necessary to understand a teenager’s perspective from the viewpoint of the parents. Few of the theories of cognitive perspectives include:
- Reinforcement learning: Reinforcement learning is a cognitive theory that suggests individuals learn and adapt their behaviors based on the consequences of their actions. In the context of social conformity, reinforcement learning posits that people conform to social norms or behaviors based on the positive or negative consequences they experience as a result. For example, if a teenager receives praise or acceptance from their peers for conforming to a particular fashion trend, they may be more likely to continue adhering to that trend in the future. This positive reinforcement strengthens the association between conforming behavior and social approval, making it more likely for the teenager to conform again in similar situations.
- Conformity bias: Conformity bias refers to the tendency of individuals to adjust their beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors to align with those of a majority group, even if doing so contradicts their own perceptions or judgments. This bias arises from the desire to avoid social rejection, gain acceptance, or maintain harmony within the group. For example, if a group of teenagers is discussing their opinions on a controversial topic, such as politics or social issues, individuals may feel pressure to conform to the prevailing viewpoint expressed by the majority, even if they privately disagree. This conformity bias can lead individuals to suppress their own perspectives or doubts in order to avoid standing out or being perceived as deviant within the group
- Intrinsic utility: A theory of conformity was proposed by B. Douglass Beenheim called the intrinsic utility model related to status of a person. In this model, people care a lot about how others see their natural inclinations, even though these inclinations can’t be directly seen. So, people’s actions become signals of what they’re really like, affecting how they’re viewed by others. When fitting in socially is more important than personal happiness, many people follow the same rules of behavior, even if they prefer different things. They do this because they know that even small deviations from these rules can hurt how others see them.
The ways in which teenagers conform to social pressure is given as follows:
Peer Pressure
Peer pressure is perhaps the most widely recognized form of social conformity among teenagers. Adolescents often find themselves influenced by their peers to adopt certain behaviors, attitudes, and even fashion choices to fit in with their social group. This pressure can manifest in various ways, such as conformity to norms within cliques, participation in risky behaviors to gain acceptance, or even altering one’s appearance to align with perceived ideals. Research suggests that the need for peer acceptance and fear of rejection can significantly impact teenage decision-making, leading to conformity even when individuals may have reservations.
Family Pressure
While peer pressure garners significant attention, family pressure also plays a crucial role in shaping teenage behavior and beliefs. Adolescents often face expectations from their families regarding academic achievement, career choices, and adherence to cultural or familial traditions. Considering a country like India, it seems that the prevalence of familial pressure is higher. These expectations can exert a considerable influence on teenagers, leading them to conform to familial norms and values. Family pressure can range from subtle suggestions to explicit directives, and the desire for parental approval can drive adolescents to conform, sometimes even at the expense of their own desires or beliefs.
Social Media
In today’s digital age, social media platforms wield substantial influence over teenage behavior and self-perception. Adolescents are exposed to curated representations of lifestyles, body images, and social activities, often leading to comparisons and feelings of inadequacy. The pressure to conform to online trends, emulate influencers, and gain validation through likes and comments can be overwhelming for teenagers. Moreover, the anonymity and distance provided by social media can facilitate the spread of unrealistic standards and cyberbullying, further exacerbating the pressure to conform. Research indicates that excessive social media use is associated with heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among adolescents, highlighting the impact of digital pressures on teenage conformity.
Tips for parents to handle the teenager’s susceptibleness to social pressure
Educate about peer pressure: The susceptibility and compliance to peers is considerably higher in teenagers, therefore education regarding the potential influence they might experience is necessary for a better development of the teenagers. Teaching teenagers about peer pressure involves helping them recognize the difference between positive and negative influences from their peers. By equipping them with critical thinking skills and assertiveness techniques, parents can empower teenagers to make informed choices and resist negative peer pressure while fostering positive social interactions.
Providing open communication: Fostering an openness in communicating with your teenage children helps in giving them a window of opportunity to share their intricacies and complexities. This open dialogue cultivates trust and strengthens the parent-child relationship, allowing teenagers to feel supported and understood. By actively listening and empathizing with their experiences, parents can better guide their teenagers through the challenges of social pressure and promote healthy decision-making.
Monitoring social media usage: Monitoring the usage of social media is extremely intricate in the social conformity they might experience. Social media gives them an unrealistic expectation of how they are supposed to look like, how they are supposed to live and many more. This forms a key role for the parents to monitor their actions and activities. Teenages might not respond well to the monitoring because of the independence they crave for but if explained in a healthy way, they understand the perspectives and the negativity the parents are trying to explain to them about social media.
Portray healthy coping mechanisms: It is very likely that a teen experiences social conformity, but as a parent to elucidate healthy coping mechanisms like practicing mindfulness, journaling, creative outlets, positive self-talk and many more can help these teenagers cope healthily and make their lives better.
Seeking professional help- If the parents notice significant changes in your teenager’s behavior, mood, or social interactions, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional or counselor. Professional support can provide additional strategies for addressing social pressures and promoting your teenager’s well-being.
Overall, Social conformity in teenagers is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by peer, family, and digital influences. While peer pressure is often highlighted, family expectations and social media also exert significant sway over adolescent behavior and beliefs. Understanding the interplay between these various sources of influence is crucial for supporting teenagers in navigating social pressures and fostering healthy autonomy and self-expression. By fostering open communication, promoting critical thinking skills, and encouraging authentic self-discovery, parents, educators, and society can empower teenagers to resist harmful conformity and cultivate resilience in the face of social pressures.
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