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Social Media and Our Perception of Reality

Teenage boy checking his social media likes for facebook and instagram

While social media can help build relationships, encourage connection, offer support, motivate young people, and spark one’s creative side, it can have negative implications if misused. Social Media Self-Perception vs. Reality There is no question that social media can negatively impact a person’s self-perception and mental health. Typically, this is caused by comparing ourselves to […]

“Man Up!” The phenomenon that affects young men across America

The concept of toxic masculinity is used in academic and media discussions of masculinity to refer to certain cultural norms that are associated with harm to society and men themselves. Traditional stereotypes of men as socially dominant, along with related traits such as misogyny and homophobia, can be considered "toxic" due in part to their promotion of violence, including sexual assault and domestic violence. The socialization of boys in patriarchal societies often normalizes violence, such as in the saying "boys will be boys" about bullying and aggression.

“You aren’t man enough.”  “Man up!”  “Come on, don’t be a ______.” What do these phrases have in common? You guessed it: They all reinforce toxic masculinity. Toxic masculinity is one explanation for male violence and sexism. This term distinguishes “toxic” traits, like aggression and self-entitlement, from “healthy” masculinity. It has grown to the point […]

Warning Signs that Your Teen is Being Bullied

stressed out redhead teenager looking at laptop with teal cup

As parents, one of the things we often worry about is the possibility of our children getting bullied or picked on at school. This worry never goes away, even as our children become teenagers and adults. We all know first-hand how cruel kids can be, and just how damaging it can be to feel isolated—especially […]

5 Moves to Dodge Peer Pressure

two teenage guys teasing a teenage girl

Everyone experiences peer pressure. It’s totally normal to want to fit in and be accepted by a group, especially in your teenage years! There are so many great things that come with having friends. For one, it feels good to belong to a group of people whom you admire. On top of that, you’ll always […]

6 Golden Rules for Dealing With Cliques

happy girl wearing yellow sweater and pink pants

Mean Girls. Pitch Perfect. Emily in Paris. 13 Reasons Why. What do all of these movies and TV shows have in common? They all explore the world of cliques. Here’s the thing: There is a pretty good chance that you’ll have to deal with cliques sometime during middle school, high school, or college. Believe it […]

10 Ways To Be a Good Friend

two guy friends sitting on a vw bus

What is one kind of relationship that can… Be an immense source of happiness and fulfillment, Teach you vital social skills, Help you define your priorities, Offer you support through thick and thin, Significantly reduce your feelings of loneliness and isolation, Give you a reality check every now and again, and Help you create social […]