The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth

Social networking sites are an apparently indispensable resource for socializing but can intensify social scrutiny. Teens are naturally bolder online than face-to-face. Social networking sites affect self-esteem and well-being, according to studies. Teenagers can become preoccupied with how they appear to others.

In the aftermath of Columbine, the homogenization of children in American schools was enforced all the more vehemently. In fact, the killers were popular. Psychologists have observed in studies that cliques tend towards bigotry.                       

Blue is outraged that conformists have the most friends. He accepts his challenge from Robbins, which is to become friends with another group.

Danielle’s grades are being dragged down by her reticence to speak up. Her challenge is therefore to make an effort to talk to people outside of her immediate friendship group.

Noah wins the district swimming tournament. He accepts Robbins’ challenge to rally students across clique boundaries through a recycling drive.

The “populars” leave Whitney out of activities. She readily accepts Robbins’ challenge to mingle with other groups.

Eli’s mother pushes him to wear more fashionable clothes. His challenge is to take an improv class, but he declines, unhopeful that his social life could change.

Joy reports the girls who have been bullying her to the principal, Mr.