Lost in the Scroll: How Social Media is Redefining Our Reality and Identity.

We live in a world where constantly scrolling through social media has become the order of the day. It is now a huge part of our lives that we can't but always scroll, double tap, send a reply, or swipe up to comment.

In Mass Communication, there's a theory called The Cultivation Theory, proposed by George Gerbner. It suggests that the more people consume media, the more their perception of reality starts to align with the world portrayed on screen. It’s like a slow and steady process of shaping how we see things. If someone watches a lot of violent content, they might start believing the world is more dangerous than it is. On the other hand, if someone binge-watches romantic movies, they might develop unrealistic expectations about love and relationships.

At dinner tables, classrooms, meetings, timeout with family/friends, and other social gatherings, we keep checking our phones for the latest gist, notifications and all, that we slowly begin to drift from what's truly important to what may be our false perception of reality based on what we see on our screens.

We have begun to see our lives from the lens of what the media, especially social media, feeds us every day. We are no longer confident, happy or content with partners, what parents can afford, true friends who genuinely care about us, and even our financial status. We tend to always want this or that; a new house in tush residential areas, a brand new car, more followers, and the list goes on and on. To us, the likes and validations are what we need to keep being relevant, and as a result, we must do whatever it takes to get those likes!

We constantly feel less valued and live our lives based on what others think or say about us. We always compare our values, achievements, financial status, life partners and even kids with others. We are gradually drifting from who we truly are to who social media says we are and should be. This is what I call a DISPLACEMENT OF IDENTITY AND VALUES. Sadly, it has badly affected a lot of lives and relationships today.

It's more like a mirage; the more we pursue our media-imposed perception of reality, the less satisfied we become.

Fella, TAKE A PAUSE TODAY AND HAVE A DEEP BREATH! Reflect on the amazing qualities you possess, appreciate the wonderful family and network of individuals God has blessed you with, refuse to be pressured by nobody and enjoy every moment you've got, whether it's in a season of lack or plenty.

You are valiant, important and have the potential to be what you truly should be, as well as get to where God wants you to be. Don't compete with anyone but yourself. Healthily strive to be the better, because, as my lecturer once said, IT IS THE YOU IN YOU THAT MAKES THE YOU YOU ARE.

Selah!

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