On the Radar: ‘Folk Valley,’ ‘Soft Life’ and a UK Social Media Ban Update

‘Folk Valley’ Is Less Folksy and More Fearsome

What? “Folk Valley” is a fake location tag trending on social media. Initially, the Folk Valley tag was used to share nonsensical, even whimsical, memes and videos, though often with a surreal or creepy edge.

So What? Unfortunately, as often happens on the internet, the trend is now being abused and taken to extremes. According to Independent, that initial eeriness that made Folk Valley popular has morphed into blatant and gory violence. Generative AI has allowed users to create content the likes of which are typically reserved for R-rated horror flicks. And because it’s hidden under such an innocuous tag, children and teens are being exposed to this content, too.

Now What? If you employ filters on your child’s social media, definitely add Folk Valley to the list. Also, talk to your teen about what they should do if they come across disturbing content online. It should always be reported or flagged. But make sure they know they can talk to you about what they’ve seen, too.

The ‘Soft Life’ Helps Gen Z to Slow Down and Relax

What? The “soft life” aesthetic trend on social media emphasizes slowing down and taking time to enjoy the “soft” things in life, such as a cozy mug of cocoa. It’s become very popular among Gen Z, especially in the self-care sphere.

So What? Studies show that a constant focus on perfectionism is a key contributor to anxiety in kids. Some experts believe the soft life trend has grown in popularity as a counter to “hustle culture.” Whereas millennials were often pushed toward “girlbossing” and “leaning in,” Gen Z is, ahem, leaning in a calmer, less stressed direction.

Now What? The soft life can be a good thing, particularly if your teen is feeling burnt out. Taking the time to slow down and enjoy time together may help with managing stress or anxiety. Just be sure your child’s relaxation doesn’t turn into flat-out laziness.

UK Teens Planning to Opt Out of Optional Social Media Ban

What? Earlier this year, former U.K. prime minister Keir Starmer proposed a social media ban for children under the age of 16. Details released since this announcement have revealed that the ban will be optional. And a poll conducted by Censuswide found that 85% of 16- to 18-year-olds would disable it.

So What? That’s not exactly surprising given that 8 in 10 Australian teens were still using social media three months after their own ban took effect. But it bodes ill for other countries looking to adopt such laws, including the U.S., in which 56% of adults support a social media ban for teens.

Now What? Trying to police social media, as we’re beginning to see, may not be the easy solution parents are hoping for. Although many social media giants are starting to be held accountable for the dangers their platforms present to adolescents, it’s still important to talk to your kids about the risks and benefits. And you’ll likely need to have an active hand in helping your teen find the balance between screen time and everything-else time.