The '6-7' Meme: Annoying or a Social Bonding Tool for Kids?
A new meme is taking over schools, and it's driving teachers crazy. But what's the deal with kids shouting '6-7' everywhere? Is it just a silly trend or something more?
Since the infamous '69', numbers haven't caused such a stir. '6-7', pronounced 'six-seveeeeen', is the latest craze among Gen Alpha kids, echoing through school halls and classrooms. It's not just about the number; it's a phrase, a gesture, a symbol of belonging.
The Birth of a Meme
Imagine a classroom where a teacher turns to page 67, and suddenly, a chorus of '6-7!' erupts. Or when lunchtime is almost there, just 6 to 7 minutes away. Kids are shouting it for no apparent reason, and it's driving teachers like Gabe Dannenbring up the wall. But why?
The phrase, originating from the chorus of the viral song 'Doot Doot (6 7)' by rapper Skrilla, has no inherent meaning. Yet, it's a ticket to a club, a secret handshake of sorts. When kids shout '6-7', they're not just making noise; they're signaling they're part of a group, a cool club of peers.
The Power of Nonsense
Gail Fairhurst, a professor of leadership communication, explains that these nonsensical phrases create a unique language game. It's a way for kids to form their own community, a secret society of sorts. Even if the term is meaningless, it's a unifying force among those who understand it.
But why '6-7'? Linguist Taylor Jones suggests it's the phrase's infinite interpretations and refusal to be defined that make it so appealing. It's like a blank canvas that kids can fill with their own meanings. And when adults show frustration or anger towards it, it only fuels its popularity.
From Basketball to TikTok
The meme's journey began with high school basketball star Taylen Kinney, who created a gesture to accompany the phrase. Soon, it spread to TikTok, where Kinney has a massive following. The song started appearing in sports highlight reels, even catching the attention of NBA players like LaMelo Ball.
The Annoying Classmate
A video of an overexcited kid shouting '6-7!' at an amateur basketball game gave birth to 'Mason 67', an online persona. This character became the face of the annoying classmate who shouts nonsense phrases. But for kids, it's a way to rebel, to show they're part of something their teachers don't understand.
The Language of Belonging
'6-7' is more than just a meme; it's a shibboleth. It's a phrase that separates the 'in' group from the outsiders. Kids use it to bond and exclude, a natural part of growing up. As Fairhurst says, language is a tool for community-building, even if the terms are nonsensical.
The Meme's Longevity
Surprisingly, '6-7' has outlived other internet slang. Jones attributes this to the strong reactions it evokes from adults. The more adults react, the more kids want to use it. It's a game of rebellion and power.
Teachers are fighting back, banning the phrase or using it themselves to regain control. But the more it's forbidden, the more appealing it becomes. Fairhurst notes that shouting '6-7!' after it's banned is a form of resistance, a way for kids to assert their independence.
Reclaiming the Numbers
Comedian Josh Pray is on a mission to reclaim the number 67, working it into his videos. He jokes about becoming 67 and not wanting to be taunted by the meme. But is it just a joke, or is there a deeper fear of losing control over language and youth culture?
Is It Harmful?
While it might be annoying, experts assure that these phrases aren't inherently harmful. Fairhurst explains that its popularity could reflect our 'post-truth' society, where interpretation matters more than the actual meaning. It's a trend, a way for kids to connect and have fun.
The Evolution of Language
Every generation creates its own slang, and language evolves in ways we may not notice. 'Cool', for instance, started as a slang term and is now a staple in our vocabulary. '6-7' might be the latest addition to this ever-changing linguistic landscape.
The Future of 6-7
As with all trends, '6-7' may be fading. Some kids are already rolling their eyes at it, and potential replacements like '41' are popping up. But for now, it's a phenomenon, a meme that has captured the attention of kids and left adults scratching their heads.
So, is '6-7' just a harmless meme or a sign of deeper societal changes? Is it a fun way for kids to bond, or a nuisance that disrupts classrooms? The debate continues, and the meme's fate hangs in the balance. What do you think? Is '6-7' here to stay, or will it soon be forgotten in the ever-evolving world of internet slang?
