MYTH

Myth Definition:

• In visual Culture myth is used to refer to the ideological meaning of a sign that is expressed through connotation (an idea or feeling). Another way to look at myth is as the hidden set of rules, codes, and conventions that certain groups create and use.

Myth relating to social media expectations:

• Some common Myths that are based in and around social media apps and adolescence include that you can’t be too flashy but you need some full body pictures, or men can’t post selfies, or if you are in a swimsuit on your Instagram you have to be at the beach or else people will think…. Or don’t post more than two pictures in a week. Nobody really sat down and made these rules, but yet teens are supposed to know that some things are ok to do on social media and some aren’t even though really none of it matters.

Some unwritten rules that many millennials follows on social media include:

1.) Know your audience: Be sure that what you post is appropriate for whoever follows you and may see the image.

2.) Don't over share: Most social media users know that when someone is using their Instagram or Facebook as a personal diary, it is time to unfollow. Nobody wants to see too much about you in one day or they will be tired of seeing you.

3.) Don't bully: Even though cyber bullying still occurs everyday, people know it is wrong. It is an unwritten rule to not be rude to others via social media. People will end their sentences with "No offense" knowing that what they said is rude, but hoping those two words will cover for them.

4.) Don't post too provocative of images: Nobody wants other teens talking rude or smack about you after you post something. Many millennials follow a certain guideline for how promiscuous their posts can get. The most scandalous being a swimsuit picture (for most teens).

These rules may not all be true or apply to all teens, though most of them do, it is expected that you know these things and that with the download of the app, that you know what is "OK" and "NOT OK" as if it is written in fine print.

https://buffer.com/library/social-media-rules-etiquette

Can we change what is expected from everyone and how we are supposed to achieve it?

• Yes, there are steps you can take to do so on a smaller scale if you still want to be able to keep all social media and still be exposed to expectations. First identify who it is you are getting your expectations from. Second identify what it is exactly that they have and you want. Third, realize WHY they have what you don’t and how it is unrealistic to your life. Fourth, list off what you would have to do to be there and if it is really worth it to you, or if it is unrealistic. Fifth, if it is something you really can achieve like going to the gym, then set goals. But be sure to realize what is too far and not too far for YOU.