Social media plays a major role in the lives of teens today, bringing both benefits and challenges. It offers a way to stay connected, learn new things, and access information instantly. At the same time, it has changed the way teens interact with the world, and has contributed to mental health struggles.
For many, social media has shaped the way people socialize. Instead of meeting up in person, many teens now resort to communicating through social media. Senior Melisa Duman has felt this change in her life: “Instead of going outside and hanging out with friends face to face, now we tend to go on FaceTime or just text and not adventure the nature and the outside environment.”
However, this form of communication can make life more convenient, and as senior Gianni Lugo says, allows teenagers to “make connections [they] would have never made.”
Teenagers agree that social media has had a big impact on their lives, and for some, a positive one. Senior Giovanni Quinones appreciates the opportunities presented by social media and is very passionate about posting, entertaining others, and using the media to stay informed on topics.
“[Social media] serves as an incredible resource for information, communication, and building connections,” says Quinones.
As Lugo says, “it all depends on the way you use social media.” When using social media, it’s important to use it with caution and be careful about who you interact with and where you get your information from.
Junior Kajeda Fraser, often takes information from social media, just like many other teenagers. However, she stays alert of false information and often digs further into the news before taking a strong stance on it: “Social media is a good place to be introduced to what’s going on in the world.”
Social media offers many opportunities that benefit teenagers all over the world. As teenagers, social media provides an escape and a chance to interact with people from around the world and grow towards their dreams even from their own home.“With just a single video, you have the potential to reach millions of people, and overnight, you could find yourself with new opportunities like living in LA,” states Quinones.
With the many benefits that come from social media, the overuse or obsession with social media and the content published can take a toll on teenagers, specifically their mental health. Many teens struggle with the fear of missing out, the negativity that spreads online, and self-doubt caused by comparing themselves to others. As Duman says, “I believe that social media ‘s issues cause depression, social anxiety, body dysmorphia, bullying, suicide, anxiety, overthinking, etc.”
Ultimately, social media is a tool that can be both helpful and harmful, depending on how it is used. Social media has the ability to educate, inspire, entertain, and connect, but can also contribute to stress and self-consciousness. Finding a good balance between social media and the outside life is key to making social media a positive part of life.
