In this new generation of technology, social media now has a tight grip on the youth, especially high schoolers. Every couple of weeks, there is a new trend that can sometimes harm property or even the students themselves. This time, the latest trend taking schools by storm is putting pencil led inside chromebook charging ports. Destroying school property has always been a trend however as in 2021, there was the “Devious Licks” trend which had students stealing school property which ended up with similar consequences that the Chromebook trend is having.
Many schools across the nation have been threatening students with suspension, fines, and even criminal charges due to the hazard of starting fires and ruining property the school has to end up paying for. A couple weeks ago, LAUSD sent out an email warning parents and students about the trend that has now caught the attention of multiple schools and districts.
Now, why are students participating in the trend? It all comes down to popularity and the need for validation from peers. According to Regis University Highlander, Austin Price states that the bandwagon effect and the need for human acceptance is a biological function that is unavoidable in humans as it is wired into our brains. Even if these trends are dangerous or can cost you hundreds, people still do them as a way to fit in or be “cool” in social circles.
Tiktok trends have always affected people with how they dress, act, joke about, and the things they like, but the need for validation will most of the time lead people to do the dangerous trends. Another example of people doing idiotic things because of social media would be the Tidepod eating challenge that was popular in 2019 with teenagers on Tiktok. Many people got poisoned from the detergent which resulted in hospitalization. People won’t be able to escape new trends from coming up on their “For You” pages but to avoid being harmed, it’s best if people stepped back and watched from the sidelines, especially if the trend involves bodily harm or property destruction.