Positively Numb: The Teenage Struggle to Feel

By: Allesandra Nicolle D. Dayanan 

Abstract: 

Toxic positivity, the excessive and forced promotion of a positive outlook while dismissing or invalidating negative emotions has become increasingly prevalent in modern society. This research paper explores the effects of toxic positivity on teenage emotional expression, examining its psychological, social, and developmental consequences. Through a review of existing case studies, this highlights how suppressing negative emotions can lead to emotional repression, increased anxiety, and weakened interpersonal relationships among teenagers. The findings emphasize the need for a balanced approach to emotional expression that validates both positive and negative emotions. 

Introduction: 

Teenagers experience a wide range of emotions as they navigate the complexities of adolescence as well as life. However, societal norms, social media, and plenty more often promote an unrealistic expectation of constant positivity. This phenomenon, known as toxic positivity, discourages open discussions about struggles, pain, and negative emotions. This paper investigates how toxic positivity impacts teenage emotional expression, emphasizing the psychological and social implications of this trend. 

Research: 

Toxic positivity manifests in various ways, including phrases like “just be happy,” “look on the bright side,” or “others have it worse.” While these statements may seem harmless, they can pressure teenagers into concealing their struggles. 

According to research published in Frontiers in Psychology, emotional suppression, often a result of toxic positivity, can lead to increased stress and emotional exhaustion (Willmer et al., 2019). When teenagers feel forced to maintain a positive outlook, they may avoid expressing sadness, frustration, or anger. Persistent emotional suppression is linked to increased anxiety and depression, particularly among teenagers (Willmer et al., 2019). Unchecked toxic positivity can hinder emotional resilience. 

According to a study in The Journal of Positive Psychology, accepting and processing negative emotions is crucial for psychological growth and well-being (Finley & Schmeichel, 2018). Suppressing emotions can lead to burnout, decreased self-esteem, and difficulties in handling future stress. 

Teenagers experiencing toxic positivity may struggle with authentic social interactions. Research indicates that emotional invalidation can damage friendships, as individuals feel unheard or

dismissed when expressing concerns (Rogers, 2022). This is particularly true in online environments where highlight reels dominate, reinforcing unrealistic standards of happiness. 

Conclusion: 

While positivity can be a powerful tool for motivation, toxic positivity does more harm than good when it silences genuine emotional struggles. Encouraging balanced emotional expression will help teenagers develop resilience, self-awareness, and stronger social connections. 

References: 

Finley, A. J., & Schmeichel, B. J. (2018). Aftereffects of Self-Control on positive Emotional reactivity. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 45(7), 1011–1027. 

https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167218802836 

Rogers, A. A. (2022, March 8). When too much of a good thing becomes a bad thing. Psychology Today. 

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/thriving-teens/202203/how-toxic-positiv ity-can-affect-your-child?utm_source 

Willmer, M., Jacobson, J. W., & Lindberg, M. (2019). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis of the 9-Item Utrecht Work engagement scale in a 

Multi-Occupational female sample: a Cross-Sectional study. Frontiers in Psychology, 10. 

https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02771