The Rise of ‘Airport Tray Aesthetics’: A Trend with a Dark Side

Recently, a new trend has taken the internet by storm, particularly among young people. Dubbed ‘airport tray aesthetics,’ it involves arranging personal belongings in a visually appealing way at airport security checkpoints and taking a photo to post on social media. However, this trend has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the negative impact of social media on mental health.

The Trend: A Form of Self-Expression or a Cry for Help?

According to reports, over 16.4 million posts with the related hashtag can be found on TikTok. The trend is seen as a form of self-expression and a way for young people to showcase their personalities. However, critics argue that it is an anxiety-inducing trend that can lead to delays at security checkpoints and potentially harm others.

The Dark Side of Social Media

CNN has pointed out that social media can have a negative impact on mental health, particularly among young people. The constant stream of curated and manipulated content can lead to social comparison and decreased self-esteem. In fact, research has shown that teenagers who use social media for more than three hours a day are twice as likely to develop depression.

A Global Problem: SNS Addiction and Its Consequences

SNS addiction is a serious problem worldwide, with 23.1% of the population identified as being at risk for smartphone over-reliance. In South Korea, 40.1% of adolescents aged 10-19 are at risk, while 22.7% of adults aged 20-59 are also affected. Smartphone over-reliance can lead to physical, psychological, and social problems, including decreased attention span, increased stress, and decreased face-to-face communication skills.

Regulating SNS: A Step in the Right Direction?

As concerns about the negative effects of SNS grow, countries are introducing ‘SNS age restriction laws.’ In the United States, there are calls to post warnings that SNS is harmful to youth health, while in Italy, a movement to ban SNS use by youth under the age of 16 is gaining momentum. Australia has set a minimum age for using SNS, and the UK has recommended banning smartphone usage during class hours.

A Call to Action: Finding a Balance in the Digital Age

While social media can be a powerful tool for self-expression and connection, it is essential to recognize its potential risks and consequences. By promoting responsible social media use and introducing regulations to protect young people, we can work towards creating a healthier digital landscape. As Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “I want to see children put down their electronic devices and go out to the playground. I want them to have real experiences with people in the real world.”