In the big scheme of things, I wouldn’t consider myself to be elderly, but the internet has a way of making me feel old and worn out. You might relate to what I’m saying. Sometimes I find myself reading something I barely comprehend, just to learn it’s English; it’s just the hot, new slang the youth are using right now. Other times, I come across a new movement – like ‘canceling’ – and wonder when and where I got left behind.

Then there are the online trends, which appear to rise and fall like the summer harvest. I’d be lying if I said I’d ever paid attention to any of them, but it doesn’t mean they don’t become immensely popular during their brief time in the spotlight.Some such fads, such as the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, are positive charitable drivers, inspiring individuals to join forces to make a real difference in the world.

Others may not be as helpful to society as a whole. Others are downright dangerous (consider the tide-pod challenge, which sources claim was a ‘thing’ in 2018). Hold onto your hats, because there appears to be a new fad on the upswing, involving primarily young people and group shots.The ‘nose covering’ craze is pretty much as promised, with people using their hands to cover their noses – and hence a huge chunk of their face – so that they don’t appear in images even when they are in them.

Strange? Yes, I agree, but that does not make it any less real. According to reports, the trend has sparked speculation among internet users that people are giving one other hidden signals, but the reality is much simpler. In an interview with Fabulous, British parenting expert Amanda Jenner stated that wearing coverings is the only way youngsters may remove themselves without offending their parents by refusing to be in the photo.

“We as parents desire and insist on documenting the moment, but for a teenager, this is a major deal. Teenagers go through a phase of not enjoying their appearance, which could include spots, braces, or simply a lack of self-confidence. Jenner noted that ‘nose covering’ may be especially crucial for young people who are concerned about their images being shared online by friends.

“Their peers can often share the photo and make fun of it which is very harmful to their confidence also resulting in harmful comments which can lead onto other issues,” she went on to say. The specialist went on to urge parents who may have noticed their children partaking in the practice: “Remember that this phase is a normal part of growing up, where seeking independence and establishing personal boundaries are key developmental milestones.”