By: Ella Fowler, Morgan Blechschmid, and Jaiden Basinger
October 20, 2020
Social media plays major roles in society today. Some of the roles include how younger kids see their body image, mental health, and others, and we all know that there are both negatives and positives to these.
Major influencers on social media tend to target younger kids, and sometimes, the positive is outweighed by the negativity.
The Royal Society for Public Health asked 14-24 year-olds how social media platforms impacted their health and well-being. This survey led to increased feelings of depression, anxiety, poor body image, and loneliness.
Obviously, this is the negative, but what about the positive?
For example, a sample of nine-to-ten year-olds in 2018 took part in a brain development study for social media. Scrolling through Instagram and texting were associated with some positive effects, including increased physical activity, less family conflict, and fewer sleep problems.
Additionally, some of the other positives to social media is to connect people with others and to give them virtual communication. People can make friends, post photos, and connect with others quickly and easily. This is really beneficial for family members who live far away or for those who are on a business trip that covers a two-week span.
Social media also is an information-beacon when it comes to gathering information about current events, sports, history, etc. In today’s pandemic, students are using technology more than ever, and the information that they seek is readily available and easy to find in a timely manner.
What it comes down to is that social media can play a positive role in today’s society. The negative aspects of social media are brought up a lot, but we need to realize the positives and the ways that it helps society.
Just like everything else, if social media is used for good, it can have a lasting impact.
Be smart and be careful, but do not assume the worst.
THE RETURN OF THE EYE 