With the rise of technology, our daily lives are becoming more dependent on social media. Teenagers are especially susceptible to social media due to having free time. Research shows that there are plenty of negative psychological effects on teenagers. There seems to be a strong correlation between texting, anxiety and lowered self-esteem. And even though physical bullying has significantly decreased in schools, the psychological has not. Much of the online bullying seems to be happening by teenagers which includes posting hateful comments. Instead of socializing, bullies seem to attack their classmates and friends which leads to psychological troubles.
Body Image:
Since social media is being used by celebrities and influencers from all over the world, teenagers end up falling into a trap. Seeing the photoshopped images of models and athletes increases the poor body image leading to depression. Many teenagers with healthy lifestyles and bodies feel insecure and they start starving themselves. Research shows that female teenagers are especially vulnerable to social media. Many of them spend remarkable amounts of time scrolling through pictures to others and comparing it to themselves.
Loneliness:
Unfortunately, having 1000 followers does not equate to having 1000 friends. Consequently, many teenagers end up feeling alone and they keep to themselves. Instead of talking to others or seeking help, teenagers end up with chronic stress. Chronic stress has adverse effects on the body since the body is not equipped to deal with chronic stress. The aggression increases in teenagers when they get ignored by their online friends.
Positive effects:
Luckily, not all social media is bad. In fact, some may argue that it can become motivational. It motivates teenagers to follow better diets, to exercise and to travel. Further, it encourages teenagers to work hard in order to be able to afford that next vacation or that expensive bag. Also, it helps friends reconnect after periods of loneliness and separation.
Parents’ Role:
Parents need to impose more rules in terms of screen time. This would decrease the risk on one’s eyesight, Also, it would allow teenagers to move and become physically more active. Importantly, parents are the ones that set a good example for their children to follow. At the same time, parents should encourage their children to pursue more fun activities. Further, they should encourage having their friends over and allowing the children to socialize. By actively monitoring the child’s life, many of the psychological disorders are preventable.
To learn more:
https://childmind.org/article/how-using-social-media-affects-teenagers/
https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/17/12/social-media-and-teen-anxiety
