The Digital Generation’s Dark Side: Exploring the Influence of Social Media and Incel Culture on Adolescent Behavior
Teenagers and young adults today inhabit a digital world, where smartphones and the internet are ubiquitous. This hyper-connectivity, while offering unprecedented opportunities, also exposes them to a myriad of risks, including harmful online content, cyberbullying, and the influence of dangerous ideologies. The recent fictional drama series, "Adolescence," tackles these complex issues, focusing on a teenage boy accused of murder and the various factors, including social media and incel (involuntary celibate) culture, that may have shaped his behavior. While the show is set abroad, the themes it explores resonate deeply with the experiences of young people globally, including in India.
The search for identity and belonging is a central aspect of adolescence, and social media can become a powerful force in shaping this process. For teens struggling to form healthy connections in their offline lives, the internet can offer a sense of community and validation. However, this vulnerability can also make them susceptible to negative influences, including extreme ideologies, toxic online communities, and dangerous viral trends. As psychotherapist Kala Balasubramanian explains, "Adolescents and early adults are at an impressionable age where they seek identity and belonging. If these needs aren’t met in their immediate environment, they may turn to social media, leaving them exposed and vulnerable."
The series "Adolescence" highlights the disturbing reality of the incel subculture, a group of men who harbor resentment towards women for their perceived inability to attract them sexually. This online community often promotes misogynistic views and can incite violence against women. The incel phenomenon is not limited to a specific geographic location and finds adherents in various countries, including India, where online groups perpetuate harmful narratives about gender roles and relationships. Balasubramanian points to the Gisele Pelicot case in France, where seemingly ordinary individuals participated in heinous acts of sexual violence, demonstrating how deeply ingrained misogyny can be.
The impact of social media extends beyond specific subcultures and affects the broader online experience of teenagers. The pressure to maintain a curated online persona, coupled with the prevalence of cyberbullying and the perceived anonymity of the internet, can create a toxic environment. Psychologist Amrita Saluja notes that young people often turn to social media to explore their curiosities, particularly those related to sexuality, which may not be openly discussed within their families or schools. This can lead to exposure to inappropriate content and risky behaviors, including sexting and underage sexual activity.
Parental control and monitoring of online activity are crucial, but finding the right balance is essential. Experts warn against both extremes – complete disregard for a child’s online life and overly controlling "helicopter parenting," which can drive teens to further secrecy. Open communication and a supportive environment are vital for addressing these challenges. Parents need to be aware of warning signs, such as secretive behavior regarding phone usage or exposure to age-inappropriate content. Addressing irresponsible online behavior, such as bullying or hate speech, requires parental intervention and potentially professional help. Saluja emphasizes the importance of parents adapting to the changing digital landscape and providing children with a healthy space to explore their identities and form relationships.
The issues highlighted in "Adolescence" are not unique to the digital age, but social media has amplified their reach and impact. Addressing the complex challenges facing young people online requires a multi-faceted approach. Beyond parental guidance, schools, policymakers, and society as a whole must work together to promote digital literacy, critical thinking skills, and healthy online interactions. Fostering empathy, respect, and real-life social connections is essential to counteracting the negative influences of the digital world and ensuring the well-being of the next generation.