Networked Communications

Relevant Topics: 3.8.2 Child Internet Protection Act, 3.9.5 False Information, 3.10 Internet Addiction

3.3.3: The film shows an excessive use of the internet by the main protagonist Kayla. Kayla uses the internet for entertainment purposes and communication mainly when on her own. She communicated via Snapchat and Instagram with her classmates and fans. Kayla is also a content creator on youtube, she has her own channel in which she offers life advice on. Her channel is also like her own personal vlog in which she shares information about her life to the world.

3.8.2, 3.8.1, and 3.8.4: The film doesn't explicitly address CIPA, but it does highlight the challenges faced by young people as they access the internet. CIPA was enacted to protect children from harmful online content, but the film shows that even with these protections in place, it's challenging for parents and schools to fully shield children from the digital world's complexities. Kayla grew up in a world with so much access to online content and usage, it has become a bit more normalized for underage children to share their personal explicit images online. Kayla overhears that the boy she has a crush on is only interested in a relationship in which he can receive these types of pictures. Kayla does not send anything herself but implies her intention to do so in front of her crush in order to gain some attention. Children in this day and age feel more pressure to send and receive this type of content with the easy accessibility of social media. Although there are web filters that can be used to protect children from accessing harmful content It is becoming harder for parents to know everything that their child is doing on their phone when it comes to chatting online.

3.9.5: The film subtly touches upon the issue of false information and online personas. Kayla herself struggles with presenting an idealized version of herself on social media, attempting to fit into the mold of what is popular or expected online. This theme reflects the way many people, not just adolescents, curate their online presence, often presenting an idealized version of themselves, which can contribute to the spread of misinformation and unrealistic expectations.

The film doesn't explicitly address the dangers of fake news or misinformation, but it indirectly highlights the need for media literacy and critical thinking skills in the digital age. Kayla's journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity demonstrates the importance of being genuine, even in an online environment where it's easy to be someone you're not. Eventually by the end of the film, Kayla comes clean about her online persona to her followers. She lets people in on her authentic self instead of continuing to portray her “perfect” online presence in hopes that she may reach more people relating to the difficulties that she has faced.

3.10: The film depicts internet addiction among young people. Kayla is shown frequently checking her phone, even during family dinners and social interactions. This behavior reflects the addictive nature of social media and digital devices, which can lead to diminished face-to-face communication skills and a preoccupation with online validation. A couple of the main causes of internet addiction seen in the film are Kayla putting herself into stressful situations in order to make friends and also her constant feeling of alienation by her classmates. Kayla has always been ignored by the other students even when she is actively trying to engage in conversation with them. This type of stress and alienation can push Kayla to be more susceptible to internet addiction.

While the film doesn't delve deeply into the consequences of internet addiction, it does raise awareness of how young people can become absorbed in their online lives to the detriment of their offline relationships and personal growth. It's a subtle reminder of the need for balance and self-regulation when it comes to internet use.

The film serves as a mirror to contemporary society and underscores the importance of responsible internet use, media literacy, and the need for genuine self-expression in the digital age.