Archive · 14 Jun 2025
Documentary Series Reveal Pressures and Challenges Faced by Today's Teens
Two new documentaries, 'Social Studies' and 'The Class', are showing how tough it is to be a teenager today.
'Social Studies' looks at how social media, like Instagram and TikTok, affects teens, sometimes causing problems like bullying.
'The Class' shows how the pandemic made school harder and affected kids' mental health.
Both films highlight the importance of talking to each other in person and having people who care about you, like teachers or advisors, to help young people navigate the challenges of growing up.
Documentary series 'Social Studies' and 'The Class' explore challenges facing today's teens.
'Social Studies' examines the impact of social media on teenagers, including issues like slut-shaming and comparison culture.
'The Class' follows high school students during the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on their education and mental health.
Both series highlight the importance of real-life communication and human connection.
The shows are in Emmy contention, shedding light on issues affecting young people.
- Who
- Teenagers, documentary filmmakers, and educators are the primary subjects and contributors.
- What
- Documentary series exploring the pressures and challenges faced by teenagers in the digital age and during the pandemic.
- When
- The series were filmed in recent years, with 'The Class' focusing on the 2020-2021 school year.
- Where
- Filming took place in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area.
- Why
- To shed light on the effects of social media and the pandemic on teenagers' lives and mental health.
Views on Social Media's Impact
Views on School During Pandemic
Social Media's Role
Views on Social Media's Impact
Social media platforms are designed to maximize engagement, leading to increased insecurities among young people.
Views on School During Pandemic
Social media can be a tool for communication and connection, although its negative impacts are apparent.
- Series Title
- 'Social Studies', 'The Class'
- Focus
- Teenage life, social media, the COVID-19 pandemic
- Director('Social Studies')
- Lauren Greenfield
- Network ('The Class')
- KQED
- Key Issues
- Slut-shaming, comparison culture, social isolation, mental health.
- Location ('The Class')
- Deer Valley High School, San Francisco East Bay
- College Access Program
- College Advising Corps