As a parent of a 12-year-old son who is utterly captivated by the online world, I know firsthand that keeping up with teens and their relationship to the internet feels like a full-time job. Just when I think I’ve grasped one trend, another one swoops in, leaving me scrambling to catch up. It’s overwhelming, especially for those of us who don’t spend hours scrolling through social media or gaming platforms ourselves. The pressing question is: How can we make sense of it all and stay informed about what our teens are experiencing online when the landscape changes daily?
In this article, I’ll share a genuine look at some of the top trends shaping teen culture today and offer practical tips on how to navigate them without the need to become a tech whiz overnight. Understanding teens and the online world is essential for parents who want to stay engaged and supportive.
1. The Rise of BeReal and “Authenticity” Pressure
One significant trend influencing teens and the online world is the rise of BeReal, an app that encourages users to share spontaneous moments from their daily lives. BeReal’s charm lies in its simplicity, with a daily notification prompting users to snap a picture of whatever they’re doing, regardless of how mundane it may seem. While this may sound refreshing compared to the curated, picture-perfect posts on platforms like Instagram, the pressure to be “real” can create its own kind of stress. Teens may feel they need to look casually interesting at all times, which can lead to anxiety if they don’t meet these expectations. For some, failing to post can trigger feelings of inadequacy.
Tip for Parents: BeReal can be a fun way to break down the polished social media walls, but check in with your teen about how they feel using it. Instead of outright banning an app, you might explore with your teen why authenticity doesn’t need to be defined by what an app demands. Encourage conversations about self-worth that go beyond social media and emphasize that their value is not tied to their online presence.
2. Snapchat and the “Streak” Obsession
Another trend in teens and the online world is the phenomenon of Snapchat streaks. Maintaining streaks has become a social currency for many teens. It’s not just about sending quick snaps; it’s about the connections and the unspoken rule that friends keep in touch daily. Teens who have streaks running into the hundreds—or even thousands—of days feel a sense of achievement, but they also bear a burden. The fear of losing a streak can become a genuine source of stress, especially if it’s with a close friend. In extreme cases, some teens set alarms to remind them to send a snap before the 24-hour window resets.
Tip for Parents: Rather than dismissing the streak culture as trivial, recognize it as a digital extension of their friendships. If your teen seems overwhelmed by the pressure, offer reassurance that friendships don’t hinge on streaks. You can also suggest taking small breaks from Snapchat without losing connection with their friends in real life. This can help alleviate some of the stress associated with maintaining streaks.
3. Discord as a Social Hub
Discord has gained immense popularity not just among gamers but also among teens looking for community. The platform allows teens to join communities (called servers) based on shared interests like art, memes, anime, or even study groups. This makes it an appealing choice in the landscape of teens and the online world. However, its appeal goes beyond gaming, as the platform’s privacy options allow users to engage in text or voice chats without revealing much personal information, which can feel like a safe space for many teens. But there’s also the danger of anonymous or semi-anonymous interactions. Public servers can expose teens to strangers, and while many are positive environments, some harbour inappropriate content or toxic behaviour.
Tip for Parents: Try not to demonize Discord or focus solely on the dangers. Instead, take an interest in what servers your teen is part of. You don’t need to understand every inside joke or meme, but by showing genuine interest, you’ll be able to have more meaningful conversations about the platform’s risks and rewards. Educate your teen on the importance of moderation and choosing private, well-moderated servers to help them navigate this unique aspect of teens and the online world.
4. The TikTok Algorithm Rabbit Hole
The strength of TikTok’s algorithm lies in its ability to serve up content that feels personally curated for each user. This feature has become a double-edged sword for teens and the online world. The “For You” page provides a constant stream of videos that align with your teen’s interests, often based on previous likes, shares, and watch history. This is why TikTok can be so hard to put down.
Teens may start by watching a couple of funny videos and suddenly realize they’ve spent hours scrolling through content. On top of the endless entertainment, TikTok has become a hub for everything from life hacks and beauty tips to political debates and mental health advice. The problem is that not all content is reliable or healthy. With so much information consumed in bite-sized pieces, it’s easy for misinformation to spread rapidly or for teens to become fixated on negative trends, such as unhealthy beauty standards.
Tip for Parents: Time limits are one way to help manage TikTok use, but more importantly, have conversations about the content your teen engages with. Ask what kinds of videos they’re watching and discuss the credibility of the information they come across. Encourage critical thinking, so they can learn to distinguish between fun entertainment and content that might not be good for their well-being.
5. Finstas and Online Personas
The rise of “Finstas,” or fake Instagram accounts, illustrates the complex ways teens and the online world intersect. A Finsta allows teens to share less polished, more candid content with a smaller group of friends. While this sounds innocent, the act of curating multiple versions of oneself can lead to blurred lines between public and private life. Teens might post vulnerable content to their Finsta, assuming it’s “safer” there, but there’s always the risk that even private accounts can become exposed.
Tip for Parents: The idea of Finstas isn’t necessarily bad. It gives teens a space to express themselves without the full glare of public scrutiny. However, it’s important to remind them that privacy on social media is never guaranteed. Encouraging responsible posting and ensuring they’re aware of who they’re sharing content with can help maintain their digital well-being.
6. The Popularity of Twitch and Streaming
Twitch has evolved into more than just a gaming platform. Today, users can live-stream just about anything—from music performances to “just chatting” sessions where streamers talk to their audience in real-time. For many teens, this is a way to relax and feel part of a community, especially when so many have been feeling isolated during the past few years. Streaming platforms like Twitch offer an interactive experience, with viewers able to chat directly with the streamer and each other. Some teens are drawn to the idea of becoming streamers themselves, hoping to build a following and even make money. However, the world of streaming comes with its own set of challenges, from managing trolls in chat to understanding the time commitment it requires to maintain a channel.
Tip for Parents: If your teen is into Twitch, consider watching some streams together. Not only will it give you insight into what they enjoy, but it also opens up a conversation about the pros and cons of streaming. If they’re interested in becoming a streamer, talk through the practicalities—like managing screen time, handling online harassment, and balancing it with other responsibilities.
7. Influencer Culture and Brand Pressures
In the age of social media, influencers have become the new celebrities. Teens are bombarded with picture-perfect lives and aspirational lifestyles that feel just within reach. Whether it’s a fitness influencer, fashionista, or travel blogger, the subtle (and not-so-subtle) messages often boil down to: “If you buy this product, you too can have this life.” This pervasive nature of influencer culture is a defining aspect of teens and the online world today. Teens, still figuring out their identity, are particularly vulnerable to these messages. The fine line between authentic content and marketing can be hard for teens to discern. Many influencers carefully curate their image to make their content feel relatable while promoting paid partnerships behind the scenes. This can create unrealistic expectations for teens who try to emulate influencers without realizing that much of what they see is staged or sponsored.
Tip for Parents: Instead of simply warning your teen about influencer culture, have an open discussion about the realities behind it. Ask them what they think about the influencers they follow and why they feel drawn to certain content. Encouraging media literacy can help your teen navigate the world of paid promotions and understand the difference between authentic content and advertising.
8. Mental Health Trends and “Therapy Speak”
Mental health discussions have moved out of the therapist’s office and onto social media, with TikTok leading the charge in influencing how teens and the online world perceive mental health. Influencers and creators are openly talking about topics like anxiety, depression, and trauma, which has helped normalize mental health conversations. But there’s a downside: some teens might start to self-diagnose based on what they’ve seen in short clips or adopt “therapy speak” without fully understanding it.
Phrases like “setting boundaries” and “self-care” are common now, but they can sometimes be used out of context. Teens may take these complex ideas and apply them too broadly, using them to justify avoidant behaviour or misunderstand interpersonal dynamics.
Tip for Parents: Validate your teen’s interest in mental health and the importance of talking about feelings, but encourage them to seek professional help when necessary. Discussing mental health should not only be about awareness but also about knowing when to reach out for support.
9. Cancel Culture and Accountability Movements
Cancel culture is another significant phenomenon affecting teens and the online world. The fear of making a mistake online can create anxiety among teens who are often aware of the scrutiny that comes with posting anything publicly. Accountability movements are important, yet the extreme consequences of “cancelling” someone can deter teens from expressing their opinions or trying new things. The pressures of social media can create a culture of fear where teens worry that their every word will be judged.
Tip for Parents: Discuss the importance of accountability while emphasizing that everyone makes mistakes. Encourage your teen to view failures as opportunities for learning rather than reasons for shame. This perspective will help them navigate the complexities of social media interactions while building resilience.
10. Privacy vs. Oversharing
With constant sharing becoming the norm in teens and the online world, oversharing is a prevalent issue among young users. What may seem like harmless posts today might lead to regrets later on, especially if the content gets taken out of context. Teens often don’t fully understand the permanence of what they post, thinking that deleting something makes it disappear for good. This lack of awareness can result in long-term implications for their reputation or future opportunities.
Tip for Parents: Encourage your teen to think critically about what they share. Have conversations about the potential consequences of their online actions and help them set appropriate privacy settings on social media. Remind them that it’s okay to keep certain parts of their lives private.
Navigating the ever-changing landscape of teen trends and the online world doesn’t require you to be a tech expert on every app or fad. Instead, it’s about cultivating curiosity and staying open to understanding what your teen is experiencing online. By showing genuine interest and fostering ongoing conversations, you can build trust and create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Your guidance and involvement can make a meaningful difference in helping them navigate the sometimes tumultuous waters of growing up in a digital age. Together, you can empower them to cultivate healthier relationships with technology, ensuring they thrive in this complex digital landscape. Good luck on this journey, and may the force be with you!
