With the rise of social networking and online dating, the epidemic of narcissism is climbing. Online dating sites like match.com and networking sites like Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Myspace feed the egos of young people altering the increasing display of their narcissistic traits. The message is simple: “I am as awesome as it gets, and you better be just as great to date me or to be my friend.”
Virtual resumes and bragging seem to be the norm in the 21st century. Exaggerative personal internet marketing (manifested via boastful online profile descriptions and dazzling picture displays) give certain creative individuals a seeming edge on their competition by dramatically increasing their online exposure. Pretty packaging is easy on the eyes, but is not as important as the consistency of internal values, yet its easy to fall for the outward appearance and overlook the things that really matter.
The narcissistic tendencies in our society have caused a rise of disposable relationships that do not require much attention or emotional investment. Hence, the recent trend of focusing on oneself, instead of establishing a meaningful relationship with others. Texts, chats, and one-night stands have become the norm. Young people often do not bother picking up the phone to have a meaningful conversation because texting is easier. Hence, the rise of open relationships. Everything that does not fulfill one’s version of personal happiness becomes disposable.
When it comes to serious romantic relationships, humility is frequently replaced by cockiness and self obsession, changing the road map of a courtship ritual. Young women still not only want to be dined and covered in jewelry, but they also expect their partners to have high paying jobs and executive positions. Men, on the other hand, are looking for young, fit, successful models. People seem to care less about virtues than they do about cosmetically altered appearance. No one wants the second best anymore, when crème of the crop seems to be one click away.
Social networking and blogging become vehicles for those who wish to project their importance through attending glamorous events. Having one’s picture taken for a glitzy magazine sometimes seems more important than work ethic, demonstrating a shift in focus towards individualistic traits vs responsibilities.The real danger of narcissism is that it is taking over our lives, replacing what is real with what seems “cool”. I love Facebook as much as anyone, but I think it's time we applied ourselves towards building a society of caring individuals who are subtle in their online messages.
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