The behavior you mention is often referred to as using “side talk” or “inside jokes” to comment on someone’s appearance. This behavior may be common in certain groups of students for several reasons: 1. **Sense of Belonging and Intimacy**: Using side jokes can create a sense of camaraderie and belonging with peers. By sharing an inside joke that only they understand, individuals can strengthen their social bonds and feel validated by the other person. 2. **Experimenting with Social Hierarchy**: Teens are trying to determine their social status, and in the process of judging others (including criticizing their appearance), they may be trying to find their place in the social hierarchy. Discussing others using side jokes can be a way to not express opinions overtly while still providing evidence for one’s own or one’s peers’ social status. 3. **Stage of Teen Development**: Teens often place appearance at a premium, trying to find their place in the midst of their changing bodies and the expectations of their peers. Discussing others’ appearance can be a way to navigate increasingly complex social dynamics and physical changes. As a matter of fact, some students who covertly comment on others’ appearance may talk about the following: *Physical features, such as: + Body shape or size +Facial features, such as nose, eyes, or teeth + Hair texture, color, or style + Skin conditions or blemishes * Fashion choices, such as: + Clothing styles, colors, or brands + Shoes or accessories + Jewelry or makeup choices * Complimentary or critical comments, such as: + Calling someone “good-looking” or “sexy” + Criticizing someone’s physical flaws + Comparing someone’s appearance to a celebrity or ideal standard * Inside jokes or expletives, such as: + Calling someone a nickname or nickname + Using humorous metaphors or exaggerated descriptions + Creating elaborate jokes or mocking someone’s appearance It is important to acknowledge that such behavior, while it may be common in certain groups, can also cause harm, exclusion, or perpetuate harmful social standards. Encouraging students to have respectful and reflective discussions about others’ appearance, and promoting acceptance of differences, can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment.