Digital Anxiety Post #2

    In the film Eighth Grade, Kayla's journey through adolescence mirrors the anxieties surrounding the interactivity of new digital media. Through a lens of social construction, we observe how digital platforms shape and reflect societal norms, identity construction, and interpersonal relationships. The theory of social construction looks at how technologies emerge from social processes (Baym).

    Kayla's immersion in digital media incorporates the contemporary adolescent experience. Her pursuit of online validation highlights the pressure to conform to idealized standards and the anxiety provoked by the interactivity of these digital platforms. The film underscores the anxiety inherent in seeking validation through likes, comments, and virtual connections. Kayla's struggles reflect the pervasive influence of digital media on self-esteem and social identity formation. Kayla's constant comparison to curated online personas exacerbates feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. Despite the illusion of connectivity, digital interactions often fail to fulfill genuine human needs for belonging and intimacy.    

    Eighth Grade offers a moving exploration of the complexities surrounding digital media and adolescent identity. Through Kayla's experiences, we confront the profound impact of technology on self-perception, social relationships, and mental well-being. As we navigate the digital landscape, it's crucial to critically examine the ways in which technology shapes our lives and to foster genuine connections beyond the confines of the screen. Through a social construction lens, we can better understand and address the anxieties inherent in our digital age.