The desire to be visible drives children into risky areas

Altınbaş University Department of Psychology Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Dilek Şirvanlı Özen spoke about the A 4 Challange, which has recently become very popular. 

Stating that especially children between the ages of 10-14 are open to digital challenges with the need to be liked and accepted, Özen said, “Trends such as A4 Challenge create a perception of competence based on attributing value through physical appearance, which can negatively affect children's body perception.”

Digital trends can threaten developmental integrity

Prof. Dr. Şirvanlı Özen stated that children are in the process of defining both their bodies and social identities during this period and made the following evaluations:

“Developmentally, children in this age group are going through a phase in which peer relationships, the need for approval and a sense of belonging become evident. The content they encounter on social media can seriously affect the direction and intensity of these needs. Trends such as the 'A4 Challenge' can instill in children dissatisfaction with their bodies, which can leave permanent marks on their sense of self.”

Prof. Dr. Şirvanlı Özen emphasized that such digital tendencies should be addressed not only in the individual but also in the environmental context, and drew attention to the importance of trying to understand why children are so interested in content. 

Families should be accompanying, not controlling

Stating that children's relationship with the digital world should be understood, not just controlled, Özen made the following suggestions to families:

Instead of blaming social media, communicate with children openly and without judgment.
Recognize that the need to be liked and visible is a developmental need and offer healthy alternative spaces to meet this need.
Take care to see not only the child's behavior but also their emotional needs.
Prof. Dr. Şirvanlı Özen said, “It should not be forgotten that children exposed to digital currents are trying to cope not only with technology but also with a journey of growing up. Having a trusted adult with them on this journey provides stronger protection from many risks.”