The “This American Life” episode about Middle School was an interesting look into adolescents and what they see as important. Looking into the school dance was extremely interesting to reflect and compare it to my own experiences. I remember us trying to pretend like the chaperone teachers were not actually there. We were probably way to scandalous for being in middle school but I think that’s when you’re exploring yourselves and others. This is important in order for you to understand who you are and who you want to become. It was frustrating to listen to Leo’s story who had just moved to a new town and hated his life in the new setting. I was excited to hear that he had a good time with a new friend but then he said nothing really had changed. I’ve realized how frustrating everything was in middle school. Everyone is so judgmental and guarded and since they don’t want to be judged, they judge others to protect themselves. It’s true that everyone is mostly influenced by their peers. I think that this is a time that is inevitable and needs to happen in order to develop personal morals and opinions on things in life that actually matter. It can be a traumatic and defining time in your life and is absolutely necessary for social and mental development.
I think that being judgmental is definitely an issue with middle school students. Maybe it is because prior to this, there was very little judgment. Just as Leo explains, when you are in kindergarten you ask someone to be your friend and that's it. All of a sudden you are realizing it doesn't work like that anymore and it's confusing. Middle school students definitely use their judgment as a defense mechanism and think that they're the ones commenting on others no one will comment on them. And I agree with you, this period of life is unavoidable and something everyone needs to work through.
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