Norms.

What do we think when we hear that word? We could say society's expectations, rules that are generally accepted by most individuals, etc. So what's so unhealthy about having manners? Nothing at all. However, new norms that have developed through the 21st century especially with advancement in technology have changed society's way of thinking, especially in teenagers, and dramatically. Social networks have taken a huge part in this way of thinking. For example, Twitter and Tumblr being the most popular, and I can say this from experience because I am still in high school. I haven't been the only one who has seen these drastic changes in mindsets either. It's all over everyone's news feeds, it just depends on who would like to feed into the things that are said and promoted. Things are nitpicked, how people are supposed to dress, walk, speak, live and if you do not live in the way they believe you should, you will become an outcast. Many of these people are walking contradictions as they say they stand for one thing and claim to have a certain belief then post things that effect a few to thousands of people emotionally. There are, of course, positive accounts as well on these social networking websites however it almost seems as if the negative ones are over powering the positivity. Very few to none of parents and adults are aware of this new behavior circulating on the internet but it has gotten out of control in the last year. The postings of illegal content has increased and self expression has decreased. So what are we supposed to do when this occurs? Here are some ways:

1. Report/Block any negativity even if it is not towards you.

Constantly being exposed to something that hurts you emotionally that can be prevented is not good at all and should be stopped immediately. If you do not like what you see, report the account as well as block them to prevent their posts from being on your timeline. 

2. Raise awareness on the issue.

There are people that want to speak up on the problem but don't because they feel that they will get personally targeted, when it is not true. You are entitled to your opinion and should be able to stand up for what you believe in at all times!

3. Learn to accept yourself and others.

Self acceptance and love is key to a successful and happy life, no exaggerating here. There will, of course be ups and downs in the road but ultimately, learning how to accept yourself will be the best, if not one of the best decisions you have made for your own personal fulfillment. Also, regardless of what someone wears, how they speak, and who they hang out with, it does not give anyone a right to treat them anything less of what they are, human. Everyone is worthy and we should all be treated as that.