The so-called Generation Z, composed of young people under 27 years old who are hyper-connected, tend to establish social relationships through the internet. A new trend among them is called throning, in which one party in the couple seeks to enthrone the other without revealing their true intentions.
Studies have shown that around 27% of young people from Generation Z have felt used due to throning, turning their relationships into a social trampoline for their partners. This has led to artificial and toxic relationships, affecting the trust and self-esteem of those who feel manipulated.
Throning represents a shift from economic appeal to social and digital influence, creating artificial interactions based on the role each person plays in the other's social life. This phenomenon can generate problems both in personal relationships and in the self-worth of those involved.
The problem of throning is exacerbated by reflecting a dangerous precedent of social and technological change, similar to that presented in the social points episode of the series Black Mirror. Generation Z translates this dynamic from their virtual life to the real one, turning genuine interactions into a competition for social recognition and likes online.
Experts point out that throning is not a new phenomenon, but it has intensified with the era of hyper-connectivity. Those who practice it use the other person for their benefit, without sharing the same genuine interests. This can lead to issues of trust and self-esteem, affecting both parties in the relationship.
Signs of throning can be identified, such as excessive concern for reputation, different attitudes in private and public, excessive boasting about the relationship, and lack of empathy. These behaviors can be indicative of an imbalanced and superficial relationship, focused on personal gain rather than on genuine connection between people.
The school context and the search for social validation can incentivize throning, especially among young people seeking to elevate their social status through the influence and admiration of others. This dynamic can lead to relationships based on superficial and egocentric interests, far from authenticity and genuine connection.
