A Filipino mother using the pseudonym "Mama" has reached out to columnist Papa Joe with growing concerns about her college-aged daughter's emotional wellbeing in the age of social media. The mother detailed how her daughter, described as emotionally vulnerable, creates online content but becomes deeply affected by negative comments and lack of engagement.
The Modern Parenting Challenge
In her letter published on November 21, 2025, Mama expressed that her daughter experiences significant mood drops when receiving baseless criticism online. The young college student reportedly retreats to her room and becomes distressed when people don't react to her social media posts.
The concerned mother has tried reassuring her daughter that financial support is available if needed, acknowledging the current trend of earning money through online platforms. However, she observed that her daughter's primary motivation appears to be recognition and validation rather than financial gain.
Papa Joe's Response to Digital Generation Struggles
Papa Joe acknowledged that today's youth are fundamentally different, having grown up during the social media explosion. His advice emphasized that recognition can come through various channels beyond online platforms.
The columnist suggested that parents should help their children understand that life shouldn't depend on others' approval. He stressed the importance of self-expression through talents and recommended that families become the primary support system.
Practical Family Solutions
Papa Joe offered several concrete suggestions for addressing this modern parenting dilemma:
- Encourage organic growth and self-expression
- Plan quality family time to provide healthy diversions
- Help children discover life's true meaning beyond social media
- Involve children in spiritual activities like family worship
He noted that children might become withdrawn and seek alternative worlds when parents fail to provide adequate quality time, regardless of financial support.
The response highlighted that social media trends are generational and constantly evolving. Papa Joe emphasized that teaching children to connect with faith and family values provides a more stable foundation than chasing online validation.
