Like technology in general, social media has both an upside and a downside. And when it comes to the effect of social media on teenagers, those pros and cons are particularly significant.
Social media’s becoming an integral part of our routines and it is not only difficult but nearly impossible to escape from its effects on us. While it was basically introduced with the purpose of entertainment, easy communication and easy availability of information, it has now become the most important source of information sharing.
Ill-effects of Social Media on Teens and Adults
As is the rule, everything has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s go through the ill-effects that social media can have on any and all of us.
The number of likes, comments and trolling gives rise to a lot of insecurity which shakes the confidence in people. These numbers have now become the reasons for validation of whatever you do. Hence, rather than depending on genuine opinions, people have started depending on these social media opinions. False flattery and rude trolling affects everyone and can elate their confidence as well as shatter it.
FOMO – Fear Of Missing Out
This is a very common feeling that people are experiencing because of constant updates on social media. Not being able to attend an event, lack of information about activities around them, makes them feel left out. This forces them to constantly update themselves about events and hence a constant need to use social media is created.
Addiction
The content on these apps is very interesting as it has audio-visual stimuli and can also be changed according to their choices. The need to actually brainstorm and think has absolutely diminished. A thought and the next second you have information that you need.
KNOW MORE: Social Media Addiction
Presentation more important than the content
Since the use of filters and editing and apps that can modify pictures and videos have come into play, the importance to presentation has increased significantly.
Comparison and Insecurity
“She has more likes than I do”, “He has more comments than me”, “I need to increase my followers”. I need to to buckle up, stay up and be updated. The race becomes never-ending.
If it’s not here, it’s not happening: Since everyone wishes their friends and family online, I too need to put it online, otherwise how will people know if I wished or not. That is not true, you wish because you want to wish, not to show people.
Physical Pains
Apart from all the mental issues, the physical issues caused are also no less. Diminished eyesight and spectacles, Back ache, neck pains, the habit of not doing any physical activity. All these contribute to the physical disadvantages of overuse of social media.
Wrapping Up…
We would like to conclude by saying that the right use of social media will lead to very helpful advances. However, it is necessary to control anything if it becomes in excess. Try to use it for information and communication, it will be more productive if used judiciously!
