What is storytelling?

How do adolescents tell stories through writing in diaries in both a traditional and digital space?

We have seen youth look to find their true voices by exploring the idea of self-expression through writing, specifically within a diary space. We will delve into traditional forms of storytelling and what it means for adolescents to put pen to paper. The evolution of storytelling and diary writing in which adolescents express themselves has changed to a digital space.

Look out for the difference between these two writing platforms.

What purpose has diary writing/self-expression served throughout youth culture?

The similarity between both the physical and digital space, is that adolescents can take control over what they write and share through writing. Adolescents are constantly being told by their superiors - parents and teachers - that because of their age, they must be obedient, predictable or even undoubtably happy; that because they are young, they don’t have legitimate problems. Writing space is the medium that does not question or negatively challenge the legitimacy of youths’ struggles.

How does the integration of new media through the digital age change the meaning of self-expression?

As a creative function then vs. now

Traditional privacy of the diary vs. newfound relationship with the public (determining a person’s voice)