Social Media: How Does It Affect Teens?

Benefits of Social Media

• Increased connectivity

• Social media allows teenagers to communicate with friends and family remotely

• Online communities greatly benefit teens, opening the door for new opportunities and information that were previously inaccessible or unknown

• Supplemental learning

• Many social media platforms include videos or articles that contain news, educational content, and expert opinions

• Self-Expression and Creativity

• Social media offers teens a creative outlet, enabling teens to share art, music, writing, and other forms of self-expression.

Challenges and Risks

• Mental Health and Self-Esteem

• Teens may compare themselves to the often idealized lives presented online, which can lead to lower self-esteem.

• The extensive outreach and lack of moderation often present on platforms can facilitate cyberbullying

• Addictive Behaviors and Time Management

• Excessive use of social media can lead to addictive behaviors

• “Doomscrolling” (the act of spending an excessive amount of time surfing the web) night can lead to a lack of sleep and result in inadequate rest

• Privacy and Safety Concerns

• Teens might share personal information, making them vulnerable to privacy breaches or exploitation.

• Without proper guidance, teens can be exposed to content that is not age-appropriate

Strategies for Healthy Social Media Use

• Set Boundaries and Time Limits

• Promote Digital Literacy

• Encourage Offline Activities

• Support Mental Health