On the Radar: ‘Grind Culture,’ School Cellphone Bans and ‘Dirty Soda’, Best TV Shows to Binge Watch

Grind Culture Is Burning Out Teens

What? “Grind culture” is the pressure put on people to perform a certain way in their careers, schoolwork or social lives. And it negatively affects a majority (81%) of American teenagers, burning them out, according to a new report from Common Sense Media.

So What? Although social media can sometimes increase these pressures, teens also report that this outlet can help by giving them a community to relate and vent to. Video gaming and self-care practices can also help mitigate negative feelings.

Now What? Teens can help themselves by getting enough sleep, spending more time outdoors or in nature and having more open schedules (which may include using the internet less frequently). But parents can help too. Help your kids make decisions that prevent overload. Recognize when your teen makes an effort to change, even if it’s unsuccessful. Share in the things that bring your teenagers joy. Empathize when your child shares about their stresses or pressures instead of minimizing their concerns. And try to be curious about your teen’s social media experiences rather than assuming it’s all bad.

Parents Support Cell Phones Bans During Class but Not All Day

What? According to Pew Research Center, 68% of U.S. adults support a cellphone ban for middle and high school students during class. But only 36% believe the ban should be implemented all day long.

So What? Parents believe that without phones, students would have fewer distractions (91%), develop better social skills (70%) and be less likely to cheat (50%). However, parents also want to be able to reach their kids in case of an emergency.

Now What? Teenagers might use their phones for a variety of reasons: to help with classwork, communicate with friends in other classes or even to fend off boredom. Talk to your teen to figure out what they think and how their cellphone use affects their schoolwork. And if their school has implemented a ban, help them brainstorm ways to curb their own usage to avoid disciplinary action.

Dirty Soda Shops Surge on Social Media

What? “Dirty soda is a non-alcoholic drink combined with creams, flavored syrups or fruit,” says CNN. And the beverage has become more and more mainstream thanks to so-called “Mormon mommy influencers” on social media, several of whom are stars on the Hulu reality show, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

So What? Doctors warn that “having more than one sugary soda a day could put you at risk for obesity, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.” However, this hasn’t curbed the drinks’ popularity since more stores are opening nationwide.

Now What? I’m not sure exactly how “dirty soda shops” differ from the traditional “soda shoppe” of yesteryear. But I do know that parents need to be aware of the health risks involved. Influencers claim these drinks can be made healthier by substituting sparkling water, but a better option would be to limit consumption (unlike one influencer who claims she drinks at least one 44-ounce dirty soda six out of seven days of the week).

The post On the Radar: ‘Grind Culture,’ School Cellphone Bans and ‘Dirty Soda’ appeared first on Plugged In.