Examples of the adolescent needs meet through ICT
Identity experimentation and exploration
Intimacy and belonging
Separation from parents and family
Venting frustrations
Mystery and accomplishment
1. Identity experimentation and exploration: Adolescents often use social media platforms to explore different facets of their identity, such as experimenting with different personalities, hobbies, interests, or even appearance. Through creating and curating their online profiles, they can test out different identities and seek validation from their peers.
2. Intimacy and belonging: Adolescents use ICT to connect with friends and build relationships. Social media platforms and messaging apps allow them to maintain constant communication, share personal experiences, and express emotions, fostering a sense of closeness and belonging among peers.
3. Separation from parents and family: Adolescents often feel the need for more independence and distance from their parents and immediate family. ICT provides them with the means to create their private online spaces, allowing them to express themselves freely and develop a separate identity from their family. This can be done through private messaging, online forums, or even gaming platforms where they can interact with peers without parental supervision.
4. Venting frustrations: Adolescents may experience various frustrations during this developmental stage, including stress from school, conflicts with friends or family, or feelings of loneliness. ICT platforms, such as online journals, anonymous confessional apps, or support forums, provide an outlet for them to vent their frustrations, seek advice or simply find solace in sharing their experiences with others who may be going through similar situations.
5. Mystery and accomplishment: Adolescents often seek challenges and a sense of accomplishment. ICT can provide opportunities for them to engage in mystery-solving activities through online games or puzzles, where they can work independently or in teams to unravel complex problems. These activities can give them a sense of achievement and boost their self-esteem as they overcome challenges and achieve goals set within the virtual context of ICT.
1. Identity experimentation and exploration:
- Use social media platforms like Instagram or Snapchat to express and represent oneself through photos, videos, and captions.
- Engage in online forums, blogs, or virtual communities focused on interests, hobbies, or identity-related topics to explore different aspects of oneself and interact with like-minded individuals.
- Participate in online personality tests or quizzes that can provide insights into one's personality, strengths, and preferences.
2. Intimacy and belonging:
- Utilize messaging apps, such as WhatsApp or Messenger, to maintain close connections with friends and family, share personal experiences, and express emotions.
- Engage in online multiplayer games or virtual worlds where individuals can form communities, join guilds, and build relationships with other players.
- Participate in online support groups or forums where adolescents with similar experiences or challenges can connect, share their stories, and give each other advice and support.
3. Separation from parents and family:
- Use video calling platforms, like Skype or FaceTime, to communicate with parents and family members who may be geographically distant.
- Utilize online scheduling and reminder apps to manage personal responsibilities and establish a sense of independence.
- Explore online resources, such as educational websites or forums, to gain knowledge and skills in areas of interest without direct parental guidance.
4. Venting frustrations:
- Utilize social media platforms or private online journals to express feelings and experiences, seeking empathy or support from friends and followers.
- Engage in virtual art or music communities where one can create and share their emotions and frustrations through various art forms.
- Participate in online discussion groups or forums focused on mental health or stress management, where individuals can learn coping strategies and share their experiences.
5. Mystery and accomplishment:
- Engage in puzzle-solving games or mystery-solving apps that challenge problem-solving skills and offer a sense of accomplishment upon completion.
- Explore online learning platforms or tutorials to acquire new skills or knowledge, allowing for personal growth and the satisfaction of achieving goals.
- Participate in online competitions or challenges, such as coding competitions or online gaming tournaments, where adolescents can showcase their abilities and strive for success.