Stranger Things Started as a Triumph of Trauma Bonding. It Ended as a Casualty of the Franchise Machine

The year 2016 was a rollercoaster of emotions for many of us. From shocking political events to heartbreaking celebrity deaths, it seemed like every day brought a new wave of trauma and uncertainty. In the midst of all this chaos, there was one thing that provided a sense of comfort and nostalgia – our favorite well-made treats. Whether it was a warm slice of apple pie or a decadent chocolate chip cookie, these indulgent treats were a source of solace in a turbulent world. But as we look back on 2016, it's hard to deny that something has changed. The once simple and beloved treats that we couldn't help but devour have now transformed into a messy content factory. What happened to the innocent joy and comfort that these treats used to bring us? How did they become just another product to be marketed and consumed? The answer lies in the ever-evolving landscape of social media and the rise of influencer culture. In recent years, the food industry has seen a shift towards creating visually appealing and shareable content for platforms like Instagram and YouTube. The demand for aesthetically pleasing food has led to the creation of elaborate and often over-the-top treats that are designed to go viral and gain likes and followers. This shift has had a profound effect on the way we view and consume food. Instead of indulging in a treat for its taste and nostalgic value, we are now bombarded with images and videos of perfectly styled and edited treats that seem too good to be true. The pressure to create and consume these picture-perfect treats has taken away from the simple pleasure of enjoying a well-made treat. Moreover, the rise of influencer culture has also played a significant role in the devolution of our favorite treats. Influencers, who are often paid to promote products, have turned these treats into nothing more than a marketing tool. The once genuine and heartfelt recommendations from friends and family have been replaced by sponsored posts and advertisements, making it difficult to distinguish between what is truly worth indulging in and what is just a clever marketing ploy. But perhaps the most significant impact of this transformation is the toll it has taken on our mental and physical well-being. The constant exposure to picture-perfect treats on social media has created an unhealthy obsession with food and body image. We are bombarded with unrealistic expectations of what our treats should look like and how our bodies should look after consuming them. This has led to a rise in disordered eating habits and body image issues, especially among young people who are more susceptible to the influence of social media. So, what can we do to reclaim the joy and nostalgia of our favorite treats? The answer lies in being more mindful and intentional about our consumption. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media and being influenced by what we see, we should take the time to appreciate and savor the treats that we genuinely enjoy. We should also support local and independent businesses that prioritize quality and taste over creating viral content. It's also essential to remember that treats are meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Indulging in a well-made treat every once in a while should not be seen as a guilty pleasure, but rather a way to treat ourselves and bring a little joy into our lives. We should not let the pressure to conform to unrealistic standards ruin the simple pleasure of enjoying a delicious treat. In conclusion, the transformation of our favorite treats into a messy content factory is a reflection of the changing times we live in. While social media and influencer culture have played a significant role in this shift, it's up to us to take back control and enjoy our treats for what they truly are – a source of comfort, nostalgia, and joy. Let's not allow the pressures of the digital world to take away the simple pleasures of life. So go ahead, indulge in that warm slice of apple pie or that decadent chocolate chip cookie, and savor every bite. After all, life is too short to be consumed by the chaos of social media.