Counsellor/Wellbeing
Social media has become an integral part of teenage life, offering a space for connection, entertainment and self-expression. However, alongside its benefits, it also brings the silent challenge of comparison.
Young people today are growing up in a world where exposure to other people's lives is constant. Scrolling through perfectly curated posts, glamorous vacations, fashion trends, fitness goals and seemingly flawless lives can often leave teens feeling inadequate and questioning their own self-worth. This continuous stream of idealised content fuels what is known as comparison culture, where self-worth is often measured by how someone stacks up against others.
The pressure to measure up
It's natural to compare ourselves to others, but social media intensifies this tendency. For children and adolescents, who are still figuring out who they are, this culture can be particularly detrimental. Constantly comparing their appearance, achievements, or social standing to friends, influencers, and even strangers can lead to unrealistic expectations and a skewed sense of self-worth. This relentless need to measure up can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and anxiety - undermining both confidence and emotional wellbeing. What is often overlooked is that most social media content is filtered, edited and only shows the highlights – not the struggles behind the scenes.
Tips for Parents
It's vital that parents and caregivers understand how deeply comparison culture can influence a child's self-perception and sense of value. Left unchecked, it can foster perfectionism and a dependence on external validation, where a 'like' or comment becomes the measure of their worth.
The good news is, families have a powerful role to play in helping young people navigate these challenges. Here’s how you can help:
- Encourage open conversation – Talk about social media without judgement and ask how they feel about what they see online
- Model healthy habits – set a good example by maintaining balance in your social media use
- Promote self-worth – praise efforts, character, achievements rather than appearances
- Educate about digital literacy – help them understand how social media works – filters, algorithms and unrealistic portrayals
- Set boundaries – encourage screen free time, especially before bed
SPECIAL REPORT: Social Media & Comparison Culture
This Special Report by School TV will help you empower your child to build the resilience and confidence needed to navigate today's comparison-driven world and embrace their own unique path.
Here is the link to your Special Reporthttps://mccww.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-social-media-comparison-culture-au
Social media should be a tool for connection, not a measure of self-worth.
Remember, your worth is not determined by likes, followers, or filters – it comes from within.
If it doesn’t lift you up, let it go
– unfollow, mute, unfriend, unsubscribe, block, walk away
and protect your wellbeing.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your young person’s wellbeing, please reach out to their Pastoral Leader or the Thrive Wellbeing team at MCC.
Karen Surian College/School Counsellor
