In contemporary society, especially in the context of 21st century adolescence, the search for validation and recognition through social networks has become a fundamental part of the psychological development of young people. At the center of this dynamic are the "like-addicts", teenagers who depend excessively on virtual approval in the form of "likes" and comments on their publications to maintain their self-esteem and personal satisfaction.
The impact of social networks on adolescence
Social networks have transformed the way in which young people relate, communicate and build their identity . Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and TikTok offer teenagers a space to express themselves, connect with their peers and expose aspects of their lives publicly. However, this constant exposure has also generated a culture of validation through virtual interaction, where the number of "likes" and followers has become a meter of popularity and acceptance.
The search for validation in adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial stage in the emotional and social development of an individual, where the construction of identity and self-esteem play a fundamental role. In a hyperconnected world, young people constantly seek approval and validation from their peers, and social networks have become the means through which they seek to obtain it. Obtaining "likes" and positive comments on their publications gives them a momentary feeling of satisfaction and belonging, reinforcing their self-concept in an ephemeral way.
The phenomenon of "like-addicts"
"like-addicts" are those adolescents who have developed an emotional dependence on virtual validation through social networks. These young people constantly seek the approval of others in the form of "likes" and comments, and base their self-esteem on the amount of positive interactions they receive on their publications. The lack of recognition or comparison with other users with more followers can generate anxiety, sadness and low self-esteem in "like-addicts".
Factors that contribute to the "like-addict" tendency. "
Influence of digital culture
Today's digital culture promotes instantaneity, constant visibility and validation through online interaction. Adolescents who grow up immersed in this digital environment internalize the importance of virtual popularity and the need to be recognized on social networks. The pressure to maintain a perfect image and obtain the approval of others can lead to the formation of "like-addict" behaviors.
Emotional vulnerability
Teenagers who experience insecurity, Low self-esteem or difficulties in interpersonal relationships may be more susceptible to developing a dependency on online validation. The feeling of emotional emptiness or the lack of emotional support in the real world can lead young people to seek compensation in virtual care, creating a cycle of emotional dependence on "likes".
Models of reference on social networks
Constant exposure to influencers, celebrities and famous people on social networks can influence adolescents' perception of what is valued and admired in today's society. The search to imitate these virtual reference models and the constant comparison with them can increase the need for online validation and encourage "like-addicted" behaviors in young people.
Psychological consequences of addiction to "likes"
Low self-esteem and social anxiety
Dependency on virtual approval can have negative effects on the self-esteem of adolescents, since they base their personal worth on external perception rather than on their own self-concept. Social anxiety related to the need to be accepted and popular online can lead to constant worry about the image projected on social networks, generating stress and emotional discomfort.
Comparison and envy
Constant exposure to the seemingly perfect lives of others on social media can lead "like-addicts" to compare themselves negatively, feeling envious of those who receive more positive interactions or who seem to have more glamorous lives. . This constant comparison can fuel feelings of dissatisfaction, inferiority and frustration in adolescents, creating a vicious cycle of emotional dependence on "likes".
Isolation and personal disconnection
The Virtual approval addiction can distance teens from meaningful interpersonal relationships in the real world, as they invest most of their time and energy in maintaining an attractive and popular digital presence. This personal disconnection can lead to a feeling of loneliness, isolation and difficulties in face-to-face communication, negatively affecting the social and emotional skills of young "like-addicts".
Interventions and recovery strategies prevention
Promote critical awareness
It is essential to encourage adolescents to reflect on the impact of social networks on their self-esteem and emotional well-being. Educators, parents, and mental health professionals can work together to promote critical awareness about the influence of virtual validation and foster self-esteem based on self-acceptance and self-knowledge.
Establish limits and balanceEstablish limits and balance
It is important for teens to learn to set healthy boundaries in their use of social media and find a balance between online interaction and in-person activities. Establishing digital disconnection times, encouraging face-to-face contact with friends and family, and dedicating time to activities that promote emotional well-being are key strategies to prevent addiction to "likes".
Promote self-acceptance and diversity
Teenagers should be encouraged to cultivate self-acceptance based on their own values, strengths, and unique qualities, rather than seeking external validation on social media. Promoting diversity, individuality and authenticity as positive values contributes to the construction of a solid and resistant self-esteem in the face of the pressure of virtual validation.
Conclusions
In the digital age In the world we live in, the addiction to virtual validation has become an increasingly worrying phenomenon in 21st century adolescence. "Like-addicts" constantly seek approval and recognition on social networks, which can have negative consequences on their self-esteem, emotional well-being and interpersonal relationships. It is essential to foster critical awareness, establish healthy boundaries, and promote self-acceptance to prevent and address emotional dependence on likes in young people.