What is Sigma and why do teenagers say it?

The stereotypical alpha male has held a place in popular culture for generations. You know that guy: the prom king in a teen movie, the frat president who loves to party, or the guy at work who takes over every meeting and tries to be the boss. Alpha males are the ideal choice for many young men; But lately a new alpha is taking over: Sigma. But what exactly is Sigma?

Popular among Generation Alpha, sigma refers to people who act independently and don’t need many friends. Sigmas are generally self-sufficient and prefer to keep to themselves.

What is Sigma?

Kristie Tse, a psychotherapist and founder of Uncover mental health counseling, explains that a sigma is someone who “operates independently, often outside of traditional social hierarchies.” Many young people interpret the concept of sigma as a “lone wolf”, or someone who prefers their own company to the company of a crowd.

Sigma doesn’t want to be the most popular kid in school and won’t try to take over like Alpha does. Nor are they willing to follow someone’s lead simply to gain cool points from them and enhance their own social profile. Instead, they tend to do their own thing, preferring to observe situations and think before committing. Because Sigma is unlikely to try and yes Best of all, like an alpha, or following the lead of others, like a beta, they may also attract followers of their own simply by refusing to follow the crowd.

Today’s teenagers are more inclined to embrace and celebrate their individuality, and they are attracted to Sigma’s “true to yourself” atmosphere. “This provides them with a sense of individuality and frees them from social pressure to conform to a specific role,” Xie said. “This archetype allows them to embrace their uniqueness and independence, which can be attractive during a time of strong peer influence.” Teens have also adopted the word “sigma” as slang for someone who is super cool but cool. people, or as something positive in general.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Being a Sigma

If your child thinks they are a Sigma, what does it really mean? First, it means they get away with not doing what everyone else does, just to fit in, and they appreciate alone time and introspection. Positive aspects include a strong sense of self and independence, a clear understanding of values, creativity and motivation in pursuing goals that resonate with oneself, Xie said.

“From my perspective as a psychotherapist, this independence can be both empowering and isolating,” Xie said. “Sigma tends to be introspective, placing personal values ​​above social expectations.”

This can increase self-awareness, she says, but can also make true connection more difficult. “Balancing independence with social connection is critical for emotional health. Sigmas may have difficulty with social interactions and close relationships. The main challenge for Sigmas is “balancing their solitary nature” with their natural need for social connection, says Xie . “Both elements are critical to a fulfilling life.”

Discuss labels with children

Even if it’s a universally positive concept like “sigma” – a label is still a label, and it’s important to talk about labels with impressionable teens. “I encourage parents to have an open discussion about these categories,” Xie shared.

“It’s important to emphasize that labels can be limiting.” She recommends talking about the values ​​behind common archetypes like alpha, beta and sigma. “Children are encouraged to learn about independence, but also the importance of relationships and community,” she explains. If you had first-hand experience as an alpha, beta, or sigma when you were young, please share it with your children! “Sharing personal stories and experiences can help demystify these labels and use them as part of a larger conversation about identity and belonging.”