by Ayanah Dowdye, Contributing Author
Introduction
"Before and After" transformation videos have taken social media by storm, showcasing everything from stunning room makeovers to incredible personal glow-ups and detailed art projects. These short, engaging clips highlight the power of change, offering viewers a sense of satisfaction and inspiration. The visual contrast between the "before" and "after" captivates audiences, often leaving them motivated to tackle their own projects or personal goals. For teens, these transformations can have a particularly positive impact on mental health. Seeing the potential for change in these videos can foster a sense of hope and accomplishment, encouraging them to believe in their own ability to improve aspects of their lives, whether it’s their environment, skills, or self-image. The celebration of progress, no matter how small, can boost self-esteem and provide a much-needed reminder that transformation, in any form, is possible.
Relevant Videos
TikTok room makeovers: click here
TikTok Makeup transformations: click here
Evolution of drawing: click here
Art Drawings: click here
Personal transformation: click here
How to Talk to Kids About It
Collaborate on Projects: Parents can actively participate in the content creation process, whether it’s helping with the actual transformation (like a room makeover) or offering ideas and feedback during the planning and editing stages. This can turn content creation into a fun family activity.
Discuss Creative Ideas Together: Encouraging open discussions about project ideas can help parents understand their teen's interests and passions while offering guidance on how to bring those ideas to life. This fosters a collaborative environment and strengthens the parent-teen relationship.
Celebrate Achievements: Parents can engage by celebrating milestones and completed projects, whether through praise, sharing the content with family and friends, or even helping to promote the teen’s work online. Recognizing and celebrating their teen's efforts builds confidence and reinforces positive behavior.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Teens can express their creativity by planning, executing, and editing their transformation videos, helping them develop new skills and artistic talents.
The process of creating before and after videos often involves setting and achieving personal or project-based goals, promoting discipline and a sense of accomplishment.
Sharing transformation videos can connect teens with like-minded individuals, fostering a supportive online community and encouraging positive feedback.
Cons:
The desire to create impressive "after" results may lead to unrealistic expectations and pressure, causing stress or dissatisfaction if outcomes don't meet those standards.
Teens might compare their own progress or transformations to others, leading to feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem if they feel they fall short.
Posting content on social media opens up the possibility of negative comments or cyberbullying, which can impact a teen's mental health and confidence.
Other Relevant Stuff
ASCD Article: Spark Student Creativity with Inspiration from Social Media
Medium: Why TikTok is the Most Creative Social Platform | by Nir Hindi | ニール ヒンディ | The Artian | Medium
Insense: How To Make a Before And After Video [With Examples]
Common Sense Media: YouTube Content Inspiring Tweens and Teens to Express Themselves Creatively | Common Sense Media
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