Researchers Say 150 Friends Max
What? Curious about the number of relationships that a human being can actually maintain, one psychologist has concluded our personal social groups—meaning people that we consider friends and would invite to major once-in-a-lifetime events—should not exceed 150 people.
So What? Other researchers speculate that this number seems low, especially in the age of social media. However, according to what researchers told The Wall Street Journal, “there is a strong sense that people, given the choice, prefer face-to-face contact.”
Now What? Social media tells us constantly that we need to connect with other people. It’s sort of its whole spiel. However, social science suggests that perhaps it’s OK to cull that friend list. Consider the people you follow on social media, and ask your kids about who they follow, too. Are these people you personally know and regularly speak to? Or are you caught up in parasocial and performative friendships?
‘Six-Seven’ Is Out, ‘41’ Is In
What? Earlier this year, schoolchildren confused their teachers and parents by shouting out “six-seven.” It was a mostly nonsensical term meant to be an inside joke among American kids. But it’s slowly being phased out and replaced with “41.”
So What? Like its predecessor, the “41” meme is meant to be nonsensical—more of a “if you know, you know” joke than anything rude or salacious. However, also like its predecessor, it stems from a song with explicit lyrics (by Blizzi Boi), which your children may hear if they’re interested in the roots of “41.”
Now What? If your child has picked up on this meme, it’s worth asking them where they heard it and what they think it means. According to Parents, “It’s more of a whistle or birdcall, a way to signal belonging. Saying ‘41’ shows they’re in on the joke and part of the moment.” That said, talking with your kids about their slang grants you the opportunity to come alongside them, to step into their world and connect with them.
‘The Life of a Showgirl’ Is Much Cruder Than the Movie
What? Last Friday, Taylor Swift officially released her latest album, The Life of a Showgirl. That same day, she also released a behind-the-scenes documentary, Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl, which showcases the stories behind some of her music videos.
So What? The Official Release Party, which ranked at the top of the box office this past weekend, only features the lyrics from the “clean” version of Swift’s album. So, many parents were caught off guard by the profanity- and innuendo-laden lyrics of the uncensored version of The Life of a Showgirl.
Now What? Swift has taken quite the departure from her Fearless days. Her songs have featured foul language and sex before, but perhaps never so quite explicitly. Families should be asking, Where do we draw the line? Perhaps you’re OK with your 15-year-old singing along to the clean version of “Wood” (a direct reference to fiancé Travis Kelce’s manhood), but knowing what it really means, perhaps it’s time to shake off Swift.
