Most young people grow up surrounded by images and messages that suggest there is one ideal way to be in a relationship - beautiful, successful, wealthy, happy all the time, etc. Many struggle to achieve this image, leading them to feel ashamed if they don't meet these standards. This can lead to depression, anxiety, self-harm, or even suicide.
Some adolescents resist these ideals by seeking healthier relationships, focusing on their own worth, and redefining beauty standards. Others internalize them by striving for perfection or avoiding relationships altogether. It's important to recognize how media affects young people's perception of love and help them find balance between reality and fantasy.
How does media affect teenagers' expectations of relationships?
Media plays an important role in shaping young people's ideas about romance, sex, and intimacy. From TV shows to social media to music videos, teens are exposed to countless images of perfect couples who always look good together, have great chemistry, and never fight. While some may enjoy these fantasies, others begin to doubt themselves and their own potential partnerships. They might start to question whether they measure up, leading to low self-esteem and fear of failure. They might also compare themselves to celebrities and influencers with unrealistic body types or lifestyles. All of this pressure can make it hard to form meaningful connections based on mutual respect, trust, and communication.
What strategies do teens use to resist idealized relationships?
Some adolescents take a proactive approach to resisting the media's influence on their lives. They seek out positive messages that promote healthy relationships and prioritize emotional connection over physical attraction. They focus on finding people with similar values, interests, and goals. They don't let themselves get swept away by superficial appearances but instead appreciate the unique qualities of each person. They build strong friendships that offer support and encouragement without judgment. By cultivating self-love, accepting flaws, and learning from past experiences, they develop confidence in themselves and their choices.
Why do some teens internalize media ideals?
Unfortunately, many adolescents internalize media ideals, seeing them as the only way to be happy and successful in love. They might feel like they need to act or look a certain way to impress others or gain acceptance. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as dressing differently or acting aggressively to prove their worth. It may even lead to risky sexual encounters, drug use, or other dangerous activities just to feel loved or desired. Some young people may avoid romantic entanglement altogether because they don't think anyone could ever live up to the perfect images they see on TV. It's important for parents, teachers, and mentors to discuss the harms of these expectations and help kids find balance between fantasy and reality.
How can we address this issue as adults?
As adults, we have a responsibility to provide realistic examples of healthy relationships. We should model positive communication skills, empathy, and respect toward our partners. We should encourage open conversations about sex, intimacy, and boundaries while teaching young people how to navigate challenges like jealousy, conflict, and disappointment. We should also promote body positivity and diversity, showing that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
We must offer support and guidance when needed, providing resources for mental health services or counseling if necessary. By doing so, we can help teenagers develop a more balanced view of relationships and build resilience against harmful messages from the media.
How do adolescents resist or internalize media-driven ideals of perfect relationships?
Most teenagers have a desire to be independent and assert their individuality at this age. They may therefore reject media-driven ideals of relationship perfection that emphasize conformity to conventional gender roles and traditional norms about love and romance. Adolescents often view such messages as limiting and oppressive.