The Influence of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
Social media's impact on teenage mental health is a crucial area where developmental psychology and contemporary technology converge. Teenagers can explore their identities and engage in social interaction on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, but these platforms also bring in complexity that can negatively affect mental health. Studies highlight how frequent use of social media can exacerbate problems including low self-esteem and anxiety, which are frequently caused by comparisons with idealized online identities and exposure to cyberbullying. These relationships are consistent with social psychology theories that highlight how social factors shape people's behavior and mental health consequences. A critical assessment of this influence demands preventative actions to minimize possible risks while maximizing social media's advantages. In order to help teenagers develop resilience-building skills and digital literacy, educators and mental health specialists play a critical role. Stakeholders may empower youth to properly navigate social media and develop positive mental health by promoting critical thinking about online content and healthy digital habits. Using principles from developmental psychology, this method protects adolescents' psychological health while ensuring they acquire the skills necessary for success in a digitally linked society.
Reference
Khalaf, A. M., Alubied, A. A., Khalaf, A. M., & Rifaey, A. A. (2023, August 5). The impact of
social media on the mental health of adolescents and young adults: A systematic review. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10476631/
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree! Social media is such a big part of our lives, and it has both good and bad sides. It’s great for connecting, but we also have to be mindful of how it affects our mental health. Finding balance is so important, especially for the youth who are impressionable.
ReplyDeleteSocial media can impact people for good or bad! This article does a very good job at explaining the harm it can cause. For teenagers, they could be seeing or even hearing about things that they shouldn't, leading to negative thoughts or feelings. Also, this goes for both sides, whether they are a scroller or someone that posts, there could be negativity surrounding them.
ReplyDeleteSocial Media can help teens connect and express themselves, but yes, it does have risks for mental health. If it is frequently used, it can risk more anxiety, depression, or even low self-esteem. Maybe even poor body image. Girls and those already struggling with mental health can be affected more easily. I think to reduce the risks, it is important to teach teens to set boundaries and encourage them to only look at what they know is appropriate.
ReplyDeleteSocial media is a place where great things can be spread, people can connect, and people can express themselves. With that being said I have to agree with you, as someone who was on social media as an adolescent, it definitely exposed me to certain things that I shouldn't had saw. It didn't affect me but, it can affect cause a detrimental affect which is why I do think that adolescents should have very limited social media and this article does a great job of showing why they really shouldn't have it as this age.
ReplyDelete