Alex Buscemi
In a world dominated by selfies and social media, a new trend is emerging among teenagers: covering their faces in photographs. From casual Instagram posts to formal event photos, teens are increasingly choosing to hide their faces partially or entirely with their hands, objects, or digital stickers. This act is not just a trending fashion statement; it reflects deeper societal shifts and personal anxieties.
The Rise of Anonymity in the Age of Visibility
Social media has transformed the way we present ourselves to the world, with an ever-increasing emphasis on aesthetics and public approval.
Parent Michelle Harris has a son who covered his face during a family Christmas photo.”After several attempts to snatch the perfect Christmas family photo, I turned to my teen and finally asked him, ‘Why? Is everything OK? Why won’t you show up in family photos for the handsome boy that you are anymore?’ And then the big whopper: ‘Are you being bullied?'” she told The Sun.
To her surprise, her son replied: “No, but I will be if you post pictures of me online without my consent!”
Harris continued: “As parents, we want to capture it all. Their first step, every tooth, the braces, the spots and then we proudly post in our online social circles mindlessly without stopping to think how damaging this can be to our youngsters within their own online social groups.”
A Response to the Pressure to be Perfect
The pressure to deliver perfect, curated images that rack up likes and comments can be overwhelming.
“[My son] went on to explain how the nose cover is just a signal to their peers that they won’t be caught slipping which we eventually translated to meaning off guard,” Harris said. “So essentially the ‘nose cover’ for most is just a way to avoid being a target for ridicule in their digital spaces with friends.”
Parenting expert Amanda Jenner says that the trend is “a normal part of growing up, where seeking independence and establishing personal boundaries are key developmental milestones.”
Jenner added: “It’s very sad that we can’t share and be proud of family photos, but unfortunately, this is the way it is today.”
Reaching a Compromise
As her son continues to cover his face for family pics, Harris wonders if there could be a better way. She suggests parents have an open and honest dialogue with their kids about which photos they are comfortable having posted.
“After all, I wouldn’t feel comfortable about a spotty photo of me being shared online either – would you?” she said.
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