At the MoMA, I found a piece at the Value of Good Design exhibit that ties in with my toolkit project.
The piece that I chose was a art installation of a bike that I had photographed. My toolkit involves ways to cope and prevent the effects of social media on teenagers and young adults. These effects include anxiety, depression, body image issues and cyberbullying. With this project, I am focusing on the effects of Instagram specifically on teens and young adults. One of my toolkit solutions are putting down the phone and going outside to get involved with other activities other than sitting on Instagram everyday.
Although Instagram is a fun platform used to show friends and others a sneak peak into your life by posting videos and photos on your specific account, there are also other ways the app is effecting teenagers who are having trouble finding their place in the world. With the app being known for posting these photos and updates, there are also false images posted and expectations people feel they need to follow in order to fit in society. With teenagers desperate to fit in, they are also vulnerable and easy targets in this society and they feel the need to change who they really are based on their accounts and profiles to please others.
With that being said, one of my tools in my toolkit involve ditching the phone and trying outdoor activities to get your mind off of social media and just be involved with the current world around you because while your on social media all day, you’re missing out on the beautiful world around you which continues to change everyday. Going Outside Makes You Happier, More Productive, according to “FreeLancersUnion”, 2013. Taking a break from social media and going on bike rides or just walks outside or even just being outside for a reasonable amount of time throughout your day improves mental health according to multiple sources. So put down the phone and go on a walk and free your mind.
