«Flex» as a mirror of the era of social networks

Word «flex» that verb «flexits» in youth slang, it comes from an English word «to flex», which means «bend, strain». In general, it has several main meanings, but I will talk about what is popular and used in everyday life among teenagers today (and not only).

«Flex» (flex) and «inflexits» mean «demonstratively brag, brag or pontate». This phenomenon is a reflection of modern culture, where success and status are often measured not only by real achievements, but also by their public demonstration.

At its core, «flex» — is a way to show others your material well-being, skills or status to gain recognition and respect. This can manifest itself both through direct flaunting and through more hidden methods, when success is demonstrated, allegedly by accident.

This kind of «flexu» is the most obvious. It manifests itself through direct and outright flaunting, the purpose of which — to cause envy or admiration in others. For example, a person posts photos of his expensive purchases, poses near a luxury car or constantly talks about his financial success to emphasize his high status.

It's a more sophisticated form. A person may not talk about his achievements directly, but his actions and way of life speak for themselves. For example, she posts photos from expensive resorts, attends exclusive events or simply «, by the way, mentions her prestigious work. Here, the demonstration of wealth happens, supposedly by accident, but in reality it is a well-thought-out strategy.

This behavior gained special importance in the era of social networks, where each post becomes a kind of showcase of one's own life. For many young people, «flex» — is a tool for increasing self-esteem and getting social «currency» in the form of likes and followers. In the world of social networks, likes, followers and views — is capital. «Cool flex» attracts new audiences, helping to expand your influence. Each post becomes an investment in its virtual image.

There is often competition for status in youth culture. «Flexits» — is one way to show that you are «better» or «more successful» than others. By demonstrating a certain style, brand or hobby, young people signal others: «I belong to this group». It helps to find like-minded people and build social connections.

It is not just a tribute to fashion, but a comprehensive behavioral model that reveals how youth interact in virtual and real worlds, seek recognition, and build their social connections.

Word «flex» closely related to music, particularly rap and hip hop. In this context, «flexits» — is not just about bragging, but also about showing off your status, strength and success, which is an integral part of the genre.

Historically, «flex» in rap began by demonstrating the skill of — who is better at rhyme, whose «flow» (serving) is more original. Subsequently, with the commercialization of hip-hop, «flex» acquired a more materialistic tone. Artists began to openly read about expensive cars, exclusive jewelry, designer clothes and huge sums of money. It became not just a flaunt, but a powerful tool for «storytelling» — telling about their way «from the bottom to the top», emphasizing that thanks to talent and hard work they were able to achieve material success.

In addition to the material, there is also «flex» by force and influence. Rappers show their authority in the music community, «flex» with their connections, influence on the audience and superiority over competitors.

«Flex» style — is about uniqueness. «artists flex» with their unique sound, originality and ability to experiment, showing that they are not just copying, but creating new trends.

«Flex» in a negative sense is related to superficiality and materialism, when people focus attention, only on the external attributes of success, ignoring internal qualities and true values. This creates social pressure when others feel like losers due to the inability to meet such high standards. Excessive flaunting indicates narcissism and self-centeredness.

On the other hand, «flex» in a positive sense serves as a source of motivation when a person shares his achievements to confirm the value of the efforts made. For other people, someone else's «flex» can become a source of inspiration, pushing them to their own achievements. Sometimes «flex» is just a natural way to celebrate success after a long and hard work.

«flex» itself is neither good nor bad. It all depends on what motives are behind this behavior and how it affects the person himself and his environment. If it is a sincere desire to share joy or inspire others, it may be positive. If it is a tool for manipulating or increasing self-esteem at the expense of others, then such behavior is negative.