DISconnected

DISconnected from MTV is a truly thought-provoking and insightful reality television show from 2012 that bridges the digital generation's obsession with social media, technology, and personal relationships. Unlike anything else, DISconnected uniquely makes use of modern media issues to delve into the lives of four teenagers who struggle with the profound challenges that follow an over-reliance on digital communication.

The show revolves around four young adults who live in different corners of the United States: Shiro in Brooklyn, Mike in Austin, Arizona in Longview, and Perla in Los Angeles. Each character has a gripping narrative, making DISconnected an absorbing watch until the very last second. They are "connected" through technology but ironically enough, suffer from feelings of isolation and "disconnection."

Shiro's storyline addresses cyberbullying, bringing about the harsh and spiteful realities of the online world to light. Shiro is a bright, fierce young woman, but she is compelled to endure hostility and bitterness from her own classmates in her daily life. The audience witnesses Shiro's emotional battles as she strives to cope with the damaging effects of cyberbullying.

Mike, an enthusiastic technology addict, prioritizes his digital relationships over reality. He spends most of his time in front of his computer or on his phone, ignoring the world around him. His narrative presents a stark depiction of what potentially happens when our connection with technology becomes a barrier to our human connection.

On the other hand, Arizona, a charming, carefree, country girl, is reliant on technology to maintain contact with her long-distance boyfriend. Her story unfolds the complexities associated with maintaining love across geographical distances through virtual communication. Her subplot foregrounds the impact of technology on the emotions and relationships of young people.

Perla is also the victim of a common phenomenon associated with the digital era - "catfishing." She falls into a web of lies when she becomes emotionally attached to what appears to be a model living in Los Angeles, completely constructed through digital means. Perla's world is turned upside down when she discovers her online 'relationship' was a manipulative scheme, stimulating discussions about online identity, trust, and the evolving nature of romantic pursuits.

All of these stories showcased in DISconnected have relevance and resonance in today's digital-based society. The show is not merely an entertainment platform but also serves as a tool to raise awareness about the over-dependence on technology and the difficulties associated with it. The viewers witness the characters' efforts to negotiate their way around the complications that technology brings into their lives - an overabundance of information, bullying, trust issues, and most importantly, the rather ironic sense of disconnection felt in this hyper-connected world.

The show takes the viewers on a roller-coaster ride of emotional ups and downs, the highs transcending the usual happiness and exhilaration, and the lows bringing a harsh reality check. DISconnected magnifies the incredible pressure young people often face, grappling with coming of age in a landscape molded by screens, bytes, and wireless signals.

DISconnected from MTV also features appearances by Dr. Michele Borba, a renowned expert on youth, parenting, and bullying, who provides valuable insights into each of the digital dilemmas featured in each episode. This allows for both an entertaining and enlightening viewing experience, providing practical tools, advice, and resources for how the digital generation can better handle situations exacerbated by technology.

Overall, DISconnected is a powerful television series that authentically portrays the digital age's experiences. It signals the new normal wherein real-world relationships and digital connections often get blurred. By exploring timely issues like loneliness, long-distance relationships, identity crisis, and cyberbullying, the show prods forth insightful commentary on the role technology plays in shaping human relationships.

In essence, DISconnected from MTV is a brave dive into the gruesome realities of the digital world, a mirror reflecting the struggles of the digital generation. The show lucidly contextualizes the modern digital age, boldly confronting, challenging, and questioning its resulting societal behavioral changes. While it's chilling at times, it also protects glimmers of hope - a testament to young people's resilience and capacity to navigate through the new-age struggles.