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The student news site of Hoover High School

The Cardinal

The student news site of Hoover High School

The Cardinal

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What do you plan on getting better at for the spring semester?

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False sense of validation

False+sense+of+validation

In my opinion, since the embark of the mobile revolution, cell phones have become a necessary part of teens’ lives, carrying them around constantly in their hands or pockets.

Cell phones provide access to huge quantities of knowledge and educational materials. However, I have concerns about excessive screen time and social media’s impact on mental health. The constant quest for online validation can lead to self-esteem issues, and extended screen time may disrupt sleep schedules and contribute to anxiety and or depression. I believe guardians and parents should take steps to teach their children to use mobile devices properly. This could involve establishing realistic screen usage limits and could encourage interaction with others in person.

The temptation of social platforms can lead to an obsession with likes, comments, and follower counts, which can influence lower self-esteem. Constant exposure to well-kept online personalities and false body image ideals is a huge factor in anxiety and depression.   I personally have witnessed people doubting their value and worth after seeing photographs of people who appear to have what seem to be flawless bodies, ideal relationships, and perfect lives. They would do anything and everything to be up to the “standards” of what is a false reality. But when it comes to surfing the internet there are practically limitless opportunities for creative thinking.

The bad part is that the “influencers” only promote the good of life and not the hard work to get there. It could lead to overly high standards and the desire to chase an almost impossible dream, leaving people irritated as to why their real-life experiences are not perfectly matched up. The desire to be perfect is spreading on their mobile devices, and teens are comparing themselves to others, leading to their feelings of jealousy and insecurity. Overall I believe the advancement of technology has been a great thing for society, but needs to be used with caution and with proper care.

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About the Contributor
Emanuel Cruz
Emanuel Cruz, Staff Writer

Emanuel Cruz is a junior at Hoover High School. He was born on April 13, raised in San Diego, California, by his parents who immigrated to live the American Dream. He has two older siblings but he will be the first one in his family to graduate from Hoover, as the class of 2025. He also has two cats that he treasures and loves. He doesn’t really have a plan after high school but does want to attend SDSU. He wishes to have a career and is inspired by both his sister and brother.

Outside of school he enjoys watching movies and of course playing video games. His current favorite movies are Everything Everywhere All At Once, Interstellar, and La La Land. As for his video games, they are Roblox, Good Pizza Great Pizza, and Mario Kart 8. But something else that he absolutely loves is FOOD! His favorite dish is chilaquiles with a cold glass of Iced Tea.

He hopes to work in the medical field, but can’t decide on which career. What he does know is that he wants to help people whether that be helping them physically or mentally. He is currently in FACES and in Cardinals Interact which are programs that will expose him to decide which career is the best option for him.