SOCIAL: How “social” is social media?

Studies have shown it can have detrimental impacts on users. Multiple studies have linked high usage to increased risk of anxiety, depression, self-harm and even suicidal thoughts.

There’s now a Social Media Victims Law Center. The top negative impacts, according to the center, are exposure to cyberbullying, suicidal ideation, body image issues, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and low self esteem.

Teenagers are particularly vulnerable. By the age of 17, 75% of teens have at least one social media account.

“Teenage girls spend over 140 minutes per day online, and teens, on average, can reach a staggering 70 minutes of online time daily.

“According to a 2017 study, the use of social media platforms led to body image issues in young women. Further, the social comparison that social media promotes is tied to body dissatisfaction arising from comparisons to models and actresses who are standard in today’s media.”

Eating disorders can be the result.

Anxiety can come from viewing the constant comparisons, seeing events they weren’t invited to, feeling pressure to post only the most attractive version of themselves. Studies have found 88% of people make some sort of comparison on Facebook.

“Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of social media as they are still in their developmental years. On average, children begin to explore social media from the ages of 10 to 12, rapidly discovering how communication online can help them make friends, connect with family, assist with homework, share music, and engage in entertainment and games.”

Dangerous trends promoted on social media can lead to injury or the loss of life.

Supervise your child’s activity, and talk to them about it. These platforms can be fun if used responsibly.