#SELFIE

Selfies: It’s something that we are all guilty of, we just may not like to admit it. In our bed, on our way to class, literally all through class- I’ll look over and see people unapologetically and unashamedly taking photos of themselves. We as society have become so desensitized to selfies that we don’t even double take when we see someone taking pictures of themselves in public. In fact, in 2013 the word “selfie” was admitted to the Oxford Dictionary and was even the word of the year (#thankyouKimK).

While some view “selfieing” as pointless, and potentially harmful, which is true in some cases(which I’ll mention later), there have been recent studies, which were published in, Psychology of Well-Being, that suggest daily capturing and sharing of certain images positively affects people, especially college-aged students(bless). Conversely to what I have been posting about before, it is interesting to see the benefits that social media has one one’s self-esteem. Another study, conducted by researchers at the University of California, Irvine noted that taking and sending selfies, “acts as a mood booster and stress reliever, and can help you beat the blues.” (Honestly, was kind of surprised when I read this, because I swear whenever I send snapchats it takes me like a good couple of minutes just to send one). Nonetheless, science has proven me wrong.

However, while it is true that some researchers recognize the positive benefits that can come from taking pictures all day, on the other side, there are those who identify other problems that arise from constant “selfieing”. These issues can range anywhere from: isolationism, to a surge in facial surgeries in the past few years, researchers have even noticed head lice, YES HEAD LICE (no I am not making this up), can be spread from selfie taking. While although it may be odd, even comical if you think about it, it is important to realize the potential dangers that may occur when taking too many selfies. However, one particular issue I mentioned above that stems from heavy social media use is the correlation that doctors and researchers are noticing in an upward trend of plastic surgery. It’s unfortunate that in a world we live in today where people are constantly obsessing over their looks so much through over exposure from apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook that they feel the need to undergo cosmetic procedures. Thus, not only do we see the positive side of “selfieing” constantly throughout the day, but all so the negative aspects.

Moving forward, I am going to be more conscientious of how many times a day I am taking selfies, as well as observe people around me and see how digital technology has evolved such a phenomenon. While although researchers have recognized potential benefits from “selfieing”, it’s important to remember the drawbacks too. So next time you are feeling down and sad, just remember to breathe, pause and take a selfie. (But, just don’t put her head on top of someone else’s cause that is seriously how you can transfer head lice)!!!