Identity is defined as what identifies someone or something, a set of characteristics describing someone, or sameness (1). This simplistic picture of the word identity provides a visual to show all the many things identity encompasses (2). It shows that identity is more than just your interests, but it is your family, friends, choices, values and many other things that make up identity. The picture gave me a different perspective on identity because I have always thought of identity as just a few characteristics about oneself, but it is so much more.
In today’s society, it is very common for teens to have multiple identities, one online and one offline. Many teens feel the need to have two separate identities because people treat them differently or judge them if they act a certain way in real life. They openly express themselves online because they can hide behind their Facebook page, gamer tag or blog. Teens feel the freedom to say or do things online that may not be acceptable offline, such as bully someone, change the way they look, and stray from their beliefs.
The girl from the “Growing up Online” documentary is a prime example of this (3). She took pictures of herself in revealing clothing and heavy makeup. She posted them on her Facebook page and eventually got caught. The reason she posted the pictures was because she was made fun of at school and the only way she felt she could express herself was online.
Online identities are also what allow sexual predators to lure in young teenagers. They create a false Facebook page with a different photo and completely bogus information about themselves to get what they want from young teens. Most of the time they get away with their behavior because they hide behind their false identity and never get caught.
Identity is what defines someone, whether it be their online or offline identity. What is going to happen when more teens feel like they cannot openly express themselves to their families and friends? Are all teens going to move towards multiple identities? Is there a way to stop this growing reality of multiple identities?
Sources:
2.http://www.google.com/imgres?q=identity&hl=en&biw=948&bih=432&gbv=2&tbm=isch&tbnid=M-ud9IWMeI9SHM:&imgrefurl=http://art110.wikispaces.com/10s11-ID_Art&docid=qEVBiOj9uqO6kM&w=700&h=428&ei=CPmITqOZMcyfsQKh1L3lCA&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=378&page=1&tbnh=87&tbnw=143&start=0&ndsp=12&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:0&tx=66&ty=19
3.http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/kidsonline/view/
3.http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/kidsonline/view/
The idea of having multiple identities in real space as well as online is a real problem. When people go online, they develop a sense of anonymity. This is not only dangerous but also pretty disturbing. It's amazing how, when behind a mask, people will show their true colors.
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