Social media and identity politics in young adult fiction : an analysis of ‘Followers’ by Megan Angelo and ‘Sympathy’ by Olivia Sudjic

Abstract

This dissertation, which forms part of the field of digital media studies, explores the complex relationship between Generation Z (Gen Z), social media, and identity politics through young adult fiction. Gen Z is the first generation to grow up in the digital age and consequently, this has resulted in the development of a unique cultural experience and identity, as reflected by the young adult fiction case studies chosen for this study. This research study draws from digital media studies, literary theories such as characterisation and ecocritical theory, and sociological theories to examine the case studies; Megan Angelo’s ‘Followers’ and Olivia Sudjic ‘Sympathy’, while also referring to Dave Eggers’ ‘The Circle’. Via these digital cautionary narratives, this research will argue that literature serves as a mechanism to explore and scrutinize current societal issues, including those related to the digital age. By examining the characters and environments of the case studies through the aforementioned theories, the study being conducted aims to uncover how being raised in a society in which social media is ubiquitous, has shaped the unique cultural experiences of members of Gen Z. These novels incorporate social media into the narratives, purposely portraying relatable characters, allowing Gen Z readers to empathise with them and learn from their struggles and mistakes. Through this, the narratives serve their purpose as digital cautionary novels. Using the mentioned analysis, this ongoing investigation aspires to highlight the issues faced by Gen Z on social media, such as the tension between the authentic and performative self on social media, the pressure to conform to societal norms, narrative persuasion, the need for validation, the commodification of the self as well as gendered expectations on social media.