WORLD OF SELFIES
In recent years, the ubiquity of smartphones and social media platforms has given rise to a cultural phenomenon—the selfie. Selfies have gained sanctions in our lifestyle. Is it an addiction or intrusion to gain enormous attention by sharing selfies on social media? From celebrities to ordinary individuals, the act of capturing one’s own image has become an integral part of daily life. This trend, however, prompts a critical examination of its implications. Is the selfie a harmless addition to our evolving lifestyle, or does it signify a deeper, potentially addictive intrusion into our personal and social spheres?
The selfie culture has evolved over time undoubtedly an unmistakable hallmark of the internet age. The first known photographic selfie was a time-consuming effort by chemist Robert Cornelius in 1839. Around the same time, Hippolyte Bayard was testing his photographic process with self-portraits before showing it to the French academy of science. But it wasn’t until Andy Warhol made selfies into an art form in the mid-1950s and beyond that they started to receive more attention. Even so, until the advent of social media and profile photos, there wasn’t really much use for them. However, the advent of front-facing cameras on smartphones has democratized this practice, the social media impact selfies have evolved from occasional snapshots to a pervasive and sometimes obsessive habit.
Living in a world of selfies. So what? Unarguably, social media culture has become part of our daily life. Why people click selfies include- staying connected with people, getting rid of boredom, boosting self-esteem, grabbing the general limelight, gaining attention and validation on social media. While selfies can boost self-esteem, they can also contribute to insecurities when individuals compare themselves to others. Additionally, some people also report feeling validated after posting selfies online, a reason that blends with the concept of low self-confidence as posting selfies online may help quell primitive egos and quench personal insecurities.
The psychological implications of selfie culture are complex, on one hand; it can boost self-confidence and provide a means of self-expression. On the other hand, constant comparison with filtered and curated images on social media may lead to social comparison, affecting self-esteem and in some cases can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. The ease of capturing and sharing these images has led to a culture where every moment is a potential selfie moment. The number of likes, comments, followers, and shares on a selfie can significantly impact an individual’s self-esteem. This quest for approval may drive people to post more frequently, blurring the line between healthy self-expression and a compulsive need for validation.
The Good and the Bad behind “Selfie” Culture
Selfie is an obsession while ‘Selfitis’ is a real mental disorder. How do “selfies” impact adolescents’ well-being and body confidence. Many studies claim that narcissism is on the rise and out of control particularly among the younger generation, as a direct result of the drive to use new technology and new trends such as selfies .The addictive nature of seeking external validation through likes and comments may exacerbate mental health issues. It can be troublesome if repeated selfie-taking provides fodder to pre-existing narcissistic tendencies in an individual. It is agreed upon by many mental health professionals that obsessive selfie-taking can co-occur with other mental disorders. This has triggered many to point fingers at the millennials (current generation), who being overly self-absorbed individuals as “Generation Me”, may have grown up with narcissistic traits, lacking human warmth and connection.
Are you obsessed with taking selfies? Chances are you might have “selfitis” — a genuine mental condition that makes a person feel compelled to constantly take photos and post them on social media, psychologists say. Beyond the psychological aspects, the physical consequences of excessive selfie-taking are worth considering. Moreover, the pursuit of the perfect selfie may lead individuals to engage in risky behaviour, compromising their safety for an Instagrammable moment. Selfie culture has also influenced societal norms and values. The emphasis on appearance and the commodification of personal experiences for social media likes may contribute to a superficial and materialistic society.
Despite its criticisms, selfie culture also comes with several positive aspects that contribute to individual expression, creativity, and social connection. Selfies provide a creative outlet for individuals to express their personalities, moods, and interests through various poses, facial expressions, and backgrounds, people can convey aspects of their identity in a visually engaging way. Engaging in activities that promote health and well-being, as showcased in healthier selfies, can contribute to stress reduction. In some cases sharing healthy selfies, individuals can inspire others to prioritize their well-being. Taking the time to capture moments that reflect a healthier lifestyle encourages mindfulness. It involves being present in the moment and appreciating the positive aspects of one’s life, which can contribute to overall mental well-being.
Selfies can be empowering, allowing individuals to control and present their own image. This is especially true for groups historically underrepresented in mainstream media, giving them a platform to showcase their diverse beauty and identities. Whether it’s capturing a beautiful sunset at Dal Lake, a special birthday party or marriage event, award presentation or superannuation, picture with a celebrity, a simple moment with friends and colleagues help immortalize memories and create a digital scrapbook of one’s life. Sharing selfies on social media platforms fosters a sense of social connection among individuals. It allows friends and family, especially those separated by geographical distances, to stay updated on each other’s lives and share in the joys and experiences.
Selfies are often used as a tool for raising awareness and supporting various causes. Campaigns such as hashtag movements on social media utilize selfies to spread messages, educate, and mobilize people around issues like social justice, environmental awareness, and mental health. Selfies are a popular tool for personal branding and marketing. Influencers and entrepreneurs use selfies to connect with their audience, humanize their brand, and establish a relatable online presence.
Selfie culture has become intertwined with broader cultural trends and movements. From fashion to activism, selfies are a way for individuals to participate in and contribute to the ongoing dialogue around various cultural phenomena. While it’s important to acknowledge and address the potential drawbacks of excessive selfie culture, recognizing these positive aspects highlights the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon in contemporary society. The selfie phenomenon represents a double-edged sword in our evolving lifestyle.
Some believe that taking selfies can be harmful, as it could promote narcissistic tendencies, unrealistic physical expectations, and depression. While others insist that taking selfies can be empowering and is a natural form of self-expression. While it provides a platform for self-expression and connection, its addictive nature and potential negative consequences cannot be ignored. It’s important to note that the key to a positive impact lies in the intention behind taking and sharing such selfies. If the focus is on promoting a genuine and holistic sense of well-being, it can contribute positively to both the individual’s life and the broader community.
Striking a balance between self-affirmation and the pitfall of seeking constant external validation is crucial. As technology continues to advance, society must grapple with the evolving impact of selfies on our individual and collective well-being. Ultimately, understanding the fine line between a harmless addition to our lifestyle and a potentially detrimental intrusion is essential for navigating the complexities of the selfie era. Given the popularity of selfies, further characterizing the effects of engaging in selfie practices is an important area for future research.
(Author besides being a medical doctor and is very active in positive perception management of various moral, social and religious issues. He can be reached at [email protected] & twitter)
