discursive essay about social media damages self esteem

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Social media harms teens’ mental health, mounting evidence shows. what now.

Understanding what is going on in teens’ minds is necessary for targeted policy suggestions

Most teens use social media, often for hours on end. Some social scientists are confident that such use is harming their mental health. Now they want to pinpoint what explains the link.

Carol Yepes/Getty Images

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By Sujata Gupta

February 20, 2024 at 7:30 am

In January, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook’s parent company Meta, appeared at a congressional hearing to answer questions about how social media potentially harms children. Zuckerberg opened by saying: “The existing body of scientific work has not shown a causal link between using social media and young people having worse mental health.”

But many social scientists would disagree with that statement. In recent years, studies have started to show a causal link between teen social media use and reduced well-being or mood disorders, chiefly depression and anxiety.

Ironically, one of the most cited studies into this link focused on Facebook.

Researchers delved into whether the platform’s introduction across college campuses in the mid 2000s increased symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. The answer was a clear yes , says MIT economist Alexey Makarin, a coauthor of the study, which appeared in the November 2022 American Economic Review . “There is still a lot to be explored,” Makarin says, but “[to say] there is no causal evidence that social media causes mental health issues, to that I definitely object.”

The concern, and the studies, come from statistics showing that social media use in teens ages 13 to 17 is now almost ubiquitous. Two-thirds of teens report using TikTok, and some 60 percent of teens report using Instagram or Snapchat, a 2022 survey found. (Only 30 percent said they used Facebook.) Another survey showed that girls, on average, allot roughly 3.4 hours per day to TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, compared with roughly 2.1 hours among boys. At the same time, more teens are showing signs of depression than ever, especially girls ( SN: 6/30/23 ).

As more studies show a strong link between these phenomena, some researchers are starting to shift their attention to possible mechanisms. Why does social media use seem to trigger mental health problems? Why are those effects unevenly distributed among different groups, such as girls or young adults? And can the positives of social media be teased out from the negatives to provide more targeted guidance to teens, their caregivers and policymakers?

“You can’t design good public policy if you don’t know why things are happening,” says Scott Cunningham, an economist at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

Increasing rigor

Concerns over the effects of social media use in children have been circulating for years, resulting in a massive body of scientific literature. But those mostly correlational studies could not show if teen social media use was harming mental health or if teens with mental health problems were using more social media.

Moreover, the findings from such studies were often inconclusive, or the effects on mental health so small as to be inconsequential. In one study that received considerable media attention, psychologists Amy Orben and Andrew Przybylski combined data from three surveys to see if they could find a link between technology use, including social media, and reduced well-being. The duo gauged the well-being of over 355,000 teenagers by focusing on questions around depression, suicidal thinking and self-esteem.

Digital technology use was associated with a slight decrease in adolescent well-being , Orben, now of the University of Cambridge, and Przybylski, of the University of Oxford, reported in 2019 in Nature Human Behaviour . But the duo downplayed that finding, noting that researchers have observed similar drops in adolescent well-being associated with drinking milk, going to the movies or eating potatoes.

Holes have begun to appear in that narrative thanks to newer, more rigorous studies.

In one longitudinal study, researchers — including Orben and Przybylski — used survey data on social media use and well-being from over 17,400 teens and young adults to look at how individuals’ responses to a question gauging life satisfaction changed between 2011 and 2018. And they dug into how the responses varied by gender, age and time spent on social media.

Social media use was associated with a drop in well-being among teens during certain developmental periods, chiefly puberty and young adulthood, the team reported in 2022 in Nature Communications . That translated to lower well-being scores around ages 11 to 13 for girls and ages 14 to 15 for boys. Both groups also reported a drop in well-being around age 19. Moreover, among the older teens, the team found evidence for the Goldilocks Hypothesis: the idea that both too much and too little time spent on social media can harm mental health.

“There’s hardly any effect if you look over everybody. But if you look at specific age groups, at particularly what [Orben] calls ‘windows of sensitivity’ … you see these clear effects,” says L.J. Shrum, a consumer psychologist at HEC Paris who was not involved with this research. His review of studies related to teen social media use and mental health is forthcoming in the Journal of the Association for Consumer Research.

Cause and effect

That longitudinal study hints at causation, researchers say. But one of the clearest ways to pin down cause and effect is through natural or quasi-experiments. For these in-the-wild experiments, researchers must identify situations where the rollout of a societal “treatment” is staggered across space and time. They can then compare outcomes among members of the group who received the treatment to those still in the queue — the control group.

That was the approach Makarin and his team used in their study of Facebook. The researchers homed in on the staggered rollout of Facebook across 775 college campuses from 2004 to 2006. They combined that rollout data with student responses to the National College Health Assessment, a widely used survey of college students’ mental and physical health.

The team then sought to understand if those survey questions captured diagnosable mental health problems. Specifically, they had roughly 500 undergraduate students respond to questions both in the National College Health Assessment and in validated screening tools for depression and anxiety. They found that mental health scores on the assessment predicted scores on the screenings. That suggested that a drop in well-being on the college survey was a good proxy for a corresponding increase in diagnosable mental health disorders. 

Compared with campuses that had not yet gained access to Facebook, college campuses with Facebook experienced a 2 percentage point increase in the number of students who met the diagnostic criteria for anxiety or depression, the team found.

When it comes to showing a causal link between social media use in teens and worse mental health, “that study really is the crown jewel right now,” says Cunningham, who was not involved in that research.

A need for nuance

The social media landscape today is vastly different than the landscape of 20 years ago. Facebook is now optimized for maximum addiction, Shrum says, and other newer platforms, such as Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok, have since copied and built on those features. Paired with the ubiquity of social media in general, the negative effects on mental health may well be larger now.

Moreover, social media research tends to focus on young adults — an easier cohort to study than minors. That needs to change, Cunningham says. “Most of us are worried about our high school kids and younger.” 

And so, researchers must pivot accordingly. Crucially, simple comparisons of social media users and nonusers no longer make sense. As Orben and Przybylski’s 2022 work suggested, a teen not on social media might well feel worse than one who briefly logs on. 

Researchers must also dig into why, and under what circumstances, social media use can harm mental health, Cunningham says. Explanations for this link abound. For instance, social media is thought to crowd out other activities or increase people’s likelihood of comparing themselves unfavorably with others. But big data studies, with their reliance on existing surveys and statistical analyses, cannot address those deeper questions. “These kinds of papers, there’s nothing you can really ask … to find these plausible mechanisms,” Cunningham says.

One ongoing effort to understand social media use from this more nuanced vantage point is the SMART Schools project out of the University of Birmingham in England. Pedagogical expert Victoria Goodyear and her team are comparing mental and physical health outcomes among children who attend schools that have restricted cell phone use to those attending schools without such a policy. The researchers described the protocol of that study of 30 schools and over 1,000 students in the July BMJ Open.

Goodyear and colleagues are also combining that natural experiment with qualitative research. They met with 36 five-person focus groups each consisting of all students, all parents or all educators at six of those schools. The team hopes to learn how students use their phones during the day, how usage practices make students feel, and what the various parties think of restrictions on cell phone use during the school day.

Talking to teens and those in their orbit is the best way to get at the mechanisms by which social media influences well-being — for better or worse, Goodyear says. Moving beyond big data to this more personal approach, however, takes considerable time and effort. “Social media has increased in pace and momentum very, very quickly,” she says. “And research takes a long time to catch up with that process.”

Until that catch-up occurs, though, researchers cannot dole out much advice. “What guidance could we provide to young people, parents and schools to help maintain the positives of social media use?” Goodyear asks. “There’s not concrete evidence yet.”

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How social media can crush your  self-esteem

Candidate au doctorat en psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)

Disclosure statement

Sabrina Laplante does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation CA-FR.

Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) provides funding as a member of The Conversation CA.

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We all have a natural tendency to compare ourselves to others, whether intentionally or not, online or offline. Such comparisons help us evaluate our own achievements , skills, personality and our emotions. This, in turn, influences how we see ourselves.

But what impact do these comparisons have on our well-being? It depends on how much comparing we do.

Comparing ourselves on social media to people who are worse off than we are makes us feel better . Comparing ourselves to people who are doing better than us, however, makes us feel inferior or inadequate instead . The social media platform we choose also affects our morale, as do crisis situations like the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a PhD student in psychology, I am studying incels — men who perceive the rejection of women as the cause of their involuntary celibacy. I believe that social comparison, which plays as much a role in these marginal groups as it does in the general population, affects our general well-being in the age of social media.

An optimal level of comparison

The degree of social comparison that individuals carry out is thought to affect the degree of motivation they have. According to a study by researchers at Ruhr University in Bochum, Germany, there is an optimal level of perceived difference between the self and others that maximizes the effects of social comparison.

Specifically, if we see ourselves as vastly superior to others, we will not be motivated to improve because we already feel that we are in a good position. Yet, if we perceive ourselves as very inferior, we will not be motivated to improve since the goal seems too difficult to achieve.

In other words, the researchers note, beyond or below the optimal level of perceived difference between oneself and another, a person no longer makes any effort. By perceiving oneself as inferior, the individual will experience negative emotions, guilt and lowered pride and self-esteem.

Unrealistic comparisons on social media

Social comparisons therefore have consequences both for our behaviour and for our psychological well-being. However, comparing yourself to others at a restaurant dinner does not necessarily have the same effect as comparing yourself to others on Facebook. It is easier to invent an exciting existence or embellish certain aspects of things on a social media platform than it is in real life .

The advent of social media, which allows us to share content where we always appear in our best light, has led many researchers to consider the possibility that this amplifies unrealistic comparisons.

Research shows that the more time people spend on Facebook and Instagram, the more they compare themselves socially. This social comparison is linked, among other things, to lower self-esteem and higher social anxiety.

A study conducted by researchers at the National University of Singapore explains these results by the fact that people generally present positive information about themselves on social media. They can also enhance their appearance by using filters, which create the impression that there is a big difference between themselves and others.

In turn, researchers working at Facebook observed that the more people looked at content where people were sharing positive aspects of their lives on the platform, the more likely they were to compare themselves to others .

COVID-19: Less negative social comparison

However, could the effect of this comparison in a particularly stressful context like the COVID-19 pandemic be different?

A study from researchers at Kore University in Enna, Italy, showed that before lockdowns, high levels of online social comparison were associated with greater distress, loneliness and a less satisfying life. But this was no longer the case during lockdowns .

One reason for this would be that by comparing themselves to others during the lockdown, people felt they were sharing the same difficult experience. That reduced the negative impact of social comparisons. So, comparing oneself to others online during difficult times can be a positive force for improving relationships and sharing feelings of fear and uncertainty.

A different effect depending on the social media

There are distinctions to be made depending on which social media platform a person is using. Researchers at the University of Lorraine, France, consider that social media platforms should not be all lumped together .

For example, the use of Facebook and Instagram is associated with lower well-being, while Twitter is associated with more positive emotions and higher life satisfaction. One possible explanation: Facebook and Instagram are known to be places for positive self-presentation, unlike Twitter, where it is more appropriate to share one’s real opinions and emotions.

Trying to get social support on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic may reactivate negative emotions instead of releasing them, depending on which social media platform a person is using.

Many things motivate us to compare ourselves socially. Whether we like it or not, social media exposes us to more of those motivations. Depending on the type of content that is being shared, whether it is positive or negative, we tend to refer to it when we are self-evaluating. Sharing content that makes us feel good about ourselves and garners praise from others is nice, but you have to consider the effect of these posts on others.

Yet overall, I believe that sharing your difficulties in words, pictures or videos can still have positive effects and bring psychological benefits.

This article was originally published in French

• Social media
• Relationships
• Life satisfaction
• Social anxiety disorder
• Coronavirus
• Self-esteem
• Uncertainty
• psychological well-being

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Impact of social media on self-esteem and body image among young adults

R. molina ruiz.

1 Hospital clínico san carlos, Psychiatry, Madrid, Spain

I. Alfonso-Fuertes

2 Comillas University, Psychology, Madrid, Spain

S. González Vives

Introduction.

The extent to which social media contributes to body image dissatisfaction and lower self-esteem is currently under debate

This research seeks to study the relationship between the use of Instagram (one of the main platforms used by young people nowadays) and the degree of dissatisfaction with body image and the level of self-esteem among their younger users

A sample of 585 Spanish adults between 18 and 40 years old was used, to whom the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale and the Social Comparison of Appearance Scale (PACS) were applied.

A positive correlation was observed between the frequency of use of the social network and dissatisfaction with body image and low self-esteem. In addition, it was found that content observation time significantly predicts body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. On the other hand, the type of content both published and observed, showed no effect on any of these variables, although it has been found that the relationship between the use of the platform and the study variables seems to be mediated by the tendency of their users to compare their appearance with others.

Conclusions

These results invite us to reflect on the use of social networks and their impact on constructs as relevant to the person as self-esteem and body image and on how different policies should be taken into account to prevent a negative impact on the mental health of their users

No significant relationships.

The impacts of social media on youth self-image

In the age of smartphones and constant connectivity, social media has become an integral part of the lives of today's youth. While social media platforms provide various benefits, they also wield a profound influence on youth self-image. Clinical therapists Samantha Gonzalez AMFT, APCC, and Alyssa Acosta, APCC, lead the Adolescent Partial Hospital Program at Loma Linda University Behavioral Health. Together, they break down the impact of social media on the self-perception and mental well-being of young individuals, shedding light on the challenges they face in maintaining a healthy self-image in a digital age.

The Illusion of Perfection

One of the primary ways social media affects youth self-image is through the propagation of an idealized and often unattainable standard of beauty.

"Social media platforms are flooded with meticulously curated profiles, showcasing seemingly perfect lives, flawless appearances, and ideal bodies,” Acosta says. “This constant exposure to images of seemingly perfect individuals can lead young people to develop unrealistic expectations about their own appearance and life achievements.”

She says comparing oneself to these distorted representations can lead to feelings of inadequacy, lowered self-esteem, and even body dysmorphia.

Seeking Validation and Social Approval

The proliferation of social media has also fueled the need for validation and social approval among young people. The number of likes, comments, and followers has become a measure of self-worth, amplifying the pressure to present an idealized version of oneself online. Acosta says the desire for external validation can lead to the adoption of unhealthy behaviors such as excessive self-promotion, seeking attention through provocative images or posts, and even resorting to online bullying or negative comparisons to others.

Cyberbullying and Negative Feedback Loops

Reports show 16% of high school students experienced cyberbullying. Social media platforms can provide grounds for cyberbullying and negative feedback loops, which can have devastating consequences for youth self-image, according to Gonzalez Unlike face-to-face interactions, online platforms enable anonymity and distance, emboldening individuals to engage in hurtful behavior. Gonzalez says negative comments, cyberbullying, and online harassment can have a profound impact on a young person's self-esteem, leading to feelings of worthlessness, depression, and anxiety. The constant exposure to such negativity can create a toxic cycle, further exacerbating their mental well-being.

Comparison and Fear of Missing Out

Youth today are bombarded with constant updates on the lives of their peers through social media. The fear of missing out can intensify when scrolling through posts about parties, travel, achievements, or milestones.

“This incessant comparison can foster a sense of dissatisfaction with one's own life and accomplishments, leading to a negative self-perception,” Acosta says. “The curated nature of social media feeds often fails to represent the full spectrum of experiences and emotions, reinforcing an unrealistic sense of what a ‘successful’ or ‘fulfilled’ life should look like.”

Nurturing a Healthy Self-Image

While social media can have detrimental effects on youth self-image, it is important to remember that it is not inherently negative. Gonzalez and Acosta say there are ways to mitigate the negative impacts and promote a healthier self-perception among young individuals:

• Media literacy: Educating youth about the influence of social media and promoting critical thinking skills can help them discern between reality and the illusion of perfection.
• Setting boundaries: Encouraging young people to set limits on their social media usage and prioritize offline activities can foster a healthier balance.
• Positive reinforcement: Recognizing and celebrating achievements, talents, and qualities beyond social media metrics can reinforce a sense of self-worth based on internal validation.
• Promoting open communication: Creating a safe space where young people feel comfortable discussing their concerns about self-image and social media can provide valuable support.
• Diverse representation: Encouraging the promotion and celebration of diverse body types, ethnicities, abilities, and accomplishments on social media can challenge narrow beauty standards and inspire a more inclusive self-image.

May is Mental Health Month. Loma Linda University Behavioral Health leads the region in mental health treatment offering the full spectrum of behavioral health programs and services to fit your needs in Redlands, Murrieta, and Rancho Cucamonga.  Click here  to request more information about the mental health programs offered.

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Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Sociology of Media and Communication — Social Media

Argumentative Essays About Social Media

This is a comprehensive resource to help you find the perfect social media essay topic. Whether you're navigating the complexities of digital communication, exploring the impact of social media on society, or examining its effects on personal identity, the right topic can transform your essay into a captivating and insightful exploration. Remember, selecting a topic that resonates with your personal interests and academic goals not only makes the writing process more enjoyable but also enriches your learning experience. Let's dive into a world of creativity and critical thinking!

Essay Types and Topics

Below, you'll find a curated list of essay topics organized by type. Each section includes diverse topics that touch on technology, society, personal growth, and academic interests, along with introduction and conclusion paragraph examples to get you started.

Argumentative Essays

Introduction Example: "In the digital age, social media platforms have become central to our daily interactions and self-perception, particularly among teenagers. This essay explores the impact of social media on teen self-esteem, arguing that while it offers a space for expression and connection, it also presents significant challenges to self-image. "

Conclusion Example: "Having delved into the complex relationship between social media and teen self-esteem, it is clear that the digital landscape holds profound effects on individual self-perception. This essay reaffirms the thesis that social media can both uplift and undermine teen self-esteem, calling for a balanced approach to digital engagement."

Introduction Example: "As political landscapes evolve, social media has emerged as a powerful tool for political mobilization and engagement. This essay investigates the role of social media in shaping political movements, positing that it significantly enhances communication and organizational capabilities, yet raises questions about information authenticity. "

Conclusion Example: "Through examining the dual facets of social media in political mobilization, the essay concludes that while social media is a pivotal tool for engagement, it necessitates critical scrutiny of information to ensure a well-informed public discourse."

Compare and Contrast Essays

Introduction Example: "In the competitive realm of digital marketing, Instagram and Twitter stand out as leading platforms for brand promotion. This essay compares and contrasts their effectiveness, revealing that each platform caters to unique marketing strengths due to its specific user engagement and content dissemination strategies. "

Conclusion Example: "The comparative analysis of Instagram and Twitter highlights distinct advantages for brands, with Instagram excelling in visual storytelling and Twitter in real-time engagement, underscoring the importance of strategic platform selection in digital marketing."

Descriptive Essays

Introduction Example: "Today's social media landscape is a vibrant tapestry of platforms, each contributing to the digital era's social fabric. This essay describes the characteristics and cultural significance of current social media trends, illustrating that they reflect and shape our societal values and interactions. "

Conclusion Example: "In portraying the dynamic and diverse nature of today's social media landscape, this essay underscores its role in molding contemporary cultural and social paradigms, inviting readers to reflect on their digital footprints."

Persuasive Essays

Introduction Example: "In an era where digital presence is ubiquitous, fostering positive social media habits is essential for mental and emotional well-being. This essay advocates for mindful social media use, arguing that intentional engagement can enhance our life experiences rather than detract from them. "

Conclusion Example: "This essay has championed the cause for positive social media habits, reinforcing the thesis that through mindful engagement, individuals can navigate the digital world in a way that promotes personal growth and well-being."

Narrative Essays

Introduction Example: "Embarking on a personal journey with social media has been both enlightening and challenging. This narrative essay delves into my experiences, highlighting how social media has influenced my perception of self and community. "

Conclusion Example: "Reflecting on my social media journey, this essay concludes that while it has significantly shaped my interactions and self-view, it has also offered invaluable lessons on connectivity and self-awareness, affirming the nuanced role of digital platforms in our lives."

Engagement and Creativity

As you explore these topics, remember to approach your essay with an open mind and creative spirit. The purpose of academic writing is not just to inform but to engage and provoke thought. Use this opportunity to delve deep into your topic, analyze different perspectives, and articulate your own insights.

Educational Value

Each essay type offers unique learning outcomes. Argumentative essays enhance your analytical thinking and ability to construct well-founded arguments. Compare and contrast essays develop your skills in identifying similarities and differences. Descriptive essays improve your ability to paint vivid pictures through words, while persuasive essays refine your ability to influence and convince. Finally, narrative essays offer a platform for personal expression and storytelling. Embrace these opportunities to grow academically and personally.

Some Easy Argumentative Essay Topics on Social Media

• The Impact of Social Media: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Is Social Media Enhancing or Eroding Our Real-Life Social Skills?
• Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Social Media Content to Protect Youth?
• Social Media's Role in Relationships: Communication Enhancer or Barrier
• Does Social Media Contribute to Political Polarization?
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Perceptions of Divorce
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Benefit or Harm?
• Can Social Media Be Considered a Reliable Source of News and Information?
• Is Social Media Responsible for the Rise in Cyberbullying?
• Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• Does Social Media Promote Narcissism and Self-Centered Behaviors?
• The Role of Social Media in Business Marketing: Is It Indispensable?

Impacts of Social Media on Human Relationships

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Pros and Cons of Social Media: Social Networking

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Social Media Cons and Prons: Evaluating Its Advantages and Disadvantage

The importance of staying safe on social media, impact of social media on our lives, social media: negative effects and addiction, discussion on whether is social media beneficial or harmful for society, negative effects of social media: relationships and communication, social media pros and cons, social media - good and bad sides, a study of the role of social media concerning confidentiality of personal data, how social media causes stereotyping, social media addiction: consequences and strategies for recovery, the role of social media in making us more narcissistic, the effect social media is having on today's society and political atmosphere, digital/social media, censorship in social media, why teenagers are addicted to social media and how it affects them, advantages and disadvantages of social media for society, enormous impact of mass media on children, the role of social media in the current business world, social media is the reason for many of the world’s problems and solutions.

Social media refers to dynamic online platforms that enable individuals to actively engage in the generation and dissemination of various forms of content, including information, ideas, and personal interests. These interactive digital channels foster virtual communities and networks, allowing users to connect, communicate, and express themselves. By harnessing the power of technology, social media platforms provide a space for individuals to share and exchange content, fostering connections and facilitating the flow of information in an increasingly digital world.

In a peculiar manner, the inception of social media can be traced back to May 24, 1844, when a sequence of electronic dots and dashes was manually tapped on a telegraph machine. Although the origins of digital communication have deep historical roots, most contemporary narratives regarding the modern beginnings of the internet and social media often point to the emergence of the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) in 1969. The year 1987 witnessed the establishment of the direct precursor to today's internet, as the National Science Foundation introduced the more robust and expansive NSFNET, a nationwide digital network. A significant milestone occurred in 1997 when Six Degrees, the first genuine social media platform, was launched.

Mark Zuckerberg is a notable figure in the realm of social media as the co-founder and CEO of Facebook. Zuckerberg played a pivotal role in transforming Facebook from a small networking platform for college students into a global social media giant with billions of users. His innovative ideas and strategic decisions have reshaped the way people connect and share information online, making him one of the most influential individuals in the digital age. Jack Dorsey is recognized as one of the key pioneers of social media, notably for co-founding Twitter. Dorsey's creation revolutionized online communication by introducing the concept of microblogging, allowing users to share short messages in real-time. Twitter quickly gained popularity, becoming a powerful platform for news dissemination, public conversations, and social movements. Dorsey's entrepreneurial spirit and vision have contributed significantly to the evolution of social media and its impact on society. Sheryl Sandberg is a prominent figure in the social media landscape, known for her influential role as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Facebook.Sandberg played a crucial part in scaling and monetizing Facebook's operations, transforming it into a global advertising powerhouse. She is also recognized for her advocacy of women's empowerment and leadership in the tech industry, inspiring countless individuals and promoting diversity and inclusion within the social media sphere. Sandberg's contributions have left an indelible mark on the growth and development of social media platforms worldwide.

Social Networking Sites: Facebook, LinkedIn, and MySpace. Microblogging Platforms: Twitter. Media Sharing Networks: Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. Discussion Forums and Community-Based Platforms: Reddit and Quora. Blogging Platforms: WordPress and Blogger. Social Bookmarking and Content Curation Platforms: Pinterest and Flipboard. Messaging Apps: WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and WeChat.

Facebook (2004), Reddit (2005), Twitter (2006), Instagram (2010), Pinterest (2010), Snapchat (2011), TikTok (2016)

1. Increased Connectivity 2. Information Sharing and Awareness 3. Networking and Professional Opportunities 4. Creativity and Self-Expression 5. Supportive Communities and Causes

1. Privacy Concerns 2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment 3. Information Overload and Misinformation 4. Time and Productivity Drain 5. Comparison and Self-Esteem Issues

The topic of social media holds significant importance for students as it plays a prominent role in their lives, both academically and socially. Social media platforms provide students with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge with peers, expanding their learning networks beyond the confines of the classroom. It facilitates communication and access to educational resources, allowing students to stay updated on academic trends and research. Additionally, social media enhances digital literacy and prepares students for the realities of the digital age. However, it is crucial for students to develop critical thinking skills to navigate the potential pitfalls of social media, such as misinformation and online safety, ensuring a responsible and balanced use of these platforms.

The topic of social media is worthy of being explored in an essay due to its profound impact on various aspects of society. Writing an essay on social media allows for an in-depth examination of its influence on communication, relationships, information sharing, and societal dynamics. It offers an opportunity to analyze the advantages and disadvantages, exploring topics such as privacy, online identities, social activism, and the role of social media in shaping cultural norms. Additionally, studying social media enables a critical evaluation of its effects on mental health, politics, and business. By delving into this subject, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex and ever-evolving digital landscape we inhabit.

1. Social media users spend an average of 2 hours and 25 minutes per day on social networking platforms. This amounts to over 7 years of an individual's lifetime spent on social media, highlighting its significant presence in our daily lives. 2. Instagram has over 1 billion monthly active users, with more than 500 million of them using the platform on a daily basis. 3. YouTube has over 2 billion logged-in monthly active users. On average, users spend over 1 billion hours watching YouTube videos every day, emphasizing the platform's extensive reach and the power of video content. 4. Social media has become a major news source, with 48% of people getting their news from social media platforms. This shift in news consumption highlights the role of social media in shaping public opinion and disseminating information in real-time. 5. Influencer marketing has grown exponentially, with 63% of marketers planning to increase their influencer marketing budget in the coming year. This showcases the effectiveness of influencers in reaching and engaging with target audiences, and the value brands place on leveraging social media personalities to promote their products or services.

1. Schober, M. F., Pasek, J., Guggenheim, L., Lampe, C., & Conrad, F. G. (2016). Social media analyses for social measurement. Public opinion quarterly, 80(1), 180-211. (https://academic.oup.com/poq/article-abstract/80/1/180/2593846) 2. Appel, G., Grewal, L., Hadi, R., & Stephen, A. T. (2020). The future of social media in marketing. Journal of the Academy of Marketing science, 48(1), 79-95. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11747-019-00695-1?error=cookies_not_support) 3. Aichner, T., Grünfelder, M., Maurer, O., & Jegeni, D. (2021). Twenty-five years of social media: a review of social media applications and definitions from 1994 to 2019. Cyberpsychology, behavior, and social networking, 24(4), 215-222. (https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/cyber.2020.0134) 4. Ruths, D., & Pfeffer, J. (2014). Social media for large studies of behavior. Science, 346(6213), 1063-1064. (https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/science.346.6213.1063) 5. Hou, Y., Xiong, D., Jiang, T., Song, L., & Wang, Q. (2019). Social media addiction: Its impact, mediation, and intervention. Cyberpsychology: Journal of psychosocial research on cyberspace, 13(1). (https://cyberpsychology.eu/article/view/11562) 6. Auxier, B., & Anderson, M. (2021). Social media use in 2021. Pew Research Center, 1, 1-4. (https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2021/04/PI_2021.04.07_Social-Media-Use_FINAL.pdf) 7. Al-Samarraie, H., Bello, K. A., Alzahrani, A. I., Smith, A. P., & Emele, C. (2021). Young users' social media addiction: causes, consequences and preventions. Information Technology & People, 35(7), 2314-2343. (https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ITP-11-2020-0753/full/html) 8. Bhargava, V. R., & Velasquez, M. (2021). Ethics of the attention economy: The problem of social media addiction. Business Ethics Quarterly, 31(3), 321-359. (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/business-ethics-quarterly/article/ethics-of-the-attention-economy-the-problem-of-social-mediaaddiction/1CC67609A12E9A912BB8A291FDFFE799)

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Social media and how it impacts self-esteem.

Social media’s impact on self-esteem is a complex and multifaceted issue. Research has shown that the relationship between social media use and self-esteem can be influenced by various factors, including individual characteristics, the nature of one’s online interactions, and the platforms themselves. While social media can have both positive and negative effects on self-esteem, the overall consensus suggests that it can indeed impact self-esteem.

Firstly, social media can positively impact self-esteem by providing a platform for self-expression and social connection. Engaging with social media can help individuals showcase their achievements, talents, and experiences, leading to increased self-esteem. For instance, receiving likes, comments, or positive feedback on posts can boost self-esteem by providing validation and a sense of belonging (Vogel, Rose, Roberts, & Eckles, 2014). Moreover, social media can offer opportunities for individuals to join communities with shared interests and experiences, potentially enhancing their self-esteem by reducing feelings of social isolation (Perloff, 2014).

On the flip side, social media can negatively impact self-esteem. One common concern is the cultivation of social comparison. People often curate their online presence to highlight their best moments, which can lead to upward social comparison, where individuals compare themselves to others they perceive as more successful or attractive (Tiggemann & Slater, 2014). Such comparisons can lower self-esteem, particularly when individuals feel they fall short in comparison to their peers. Additionally, cyberbullying and online harassment can severely damage self-esteem, as they involve negative interactions and criticism that can harm an individual’s self-worth (Wright et al., 2016).

It is important to note that the impact of social media on self-esteem can vary depending on individual factors. People with pre-existing vulnerabilities, such as low self-esteem or mental health issues, may be more susceptible to the negative effects of social media (Primack et al., 2017). Therefore, it is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. The extent to which social media influences self-esteem will depend on personal characteristics and how individuals navigate and perceive their online experiences.

In conclusion, social media does have an impact on self-esteem, with the potential for both positive and negative effects. It can enhance self-esteem through self-expression and social connection but can also harm self-esteem through social comparison and online harassment. The influence of social media on self-esteem is complex and can vary greatly depending on individual differences and the nature of one’s online interactions. As social media continues to play a significant role in our lives, it is crucial for individuals to be mindful of how they engage with it and to promote positive and supportive online environments.

References:

Perloff, R. M. (2014). Social media effects on young women’s body image concerns: Theoretical perspectives and an agenda for research. Sex Roles, 71(11-12), 363-377.

Primack, B. A., Shensa, A., Sidani, J. E., Whaite, E. O., Lin, L. Y., Rosen, D., … & Colditz, J. B. (2017). Social media use and perceived social isolation among young adults in the U.S. PLOS ONE, 12(8), e0182145.

Tiggemann, M., & Slater, A. (2014). NetGirls: The Internet, Facebook, and body image concern in adolescent girls. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 47(6), 630- 641.

Vogel, E. A., Rose, J. P., Roberts, L. R., & Eckles, K. (2014). Social comparison, social media, and self-esteem. Psychology of Popular Media Culture, 3(4), 206-222.

Wright, M. F., Wachs, S., Morrison, K. L., et al. (2016). Adolescents’ experiences of and responses to online and face-to-face bullying: An examination of psychosocial and physical health outcomes. Journal of Adolescent Health, 59(3), 305-311.

This entry was posted on Thursday, October 19th, 2023 at 10:14 pm and is filed under Uncategorized . You can follow any comments to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a comment , or trackback from your own site.

Another issue that makes social media a negative for some is algorithms. Algorithms are Artificial intelligent systems put in place by site programmers to curate an experience tailored specifically for each user. An algorithm does not just affect the ads, but all the content you see, as well as who you interact with, and which people the site will recommend to you. If you aren’t actively aware of this algorithm you will surely fall into it like quicksand.

I bring this up because some people, in this case teens, will be pressured to post the best of their lives as they want to fit in. Due to Normative social influence, ~43% of teens will feel pressured to post the best of themselves, while ~37% will post something that will at least garner them likes and comments (Hoffman, 2021). Which other teens, adults, or people on the internet in general, will be influenced by. Another issue is how much people they aren’t affected by the content they see, due to their perceived behavioral control, might not take the required steps to avoid social medias pit falls (Gruman et al., 2017).

References: Gruman, J. A., Schneider, F. W., & Coutts, L. M. (2017). Applied Social Psychology: Understanding and addressing social and practical problems (3rd ed.). SAGE Publications. Hoffman, S. (2021, June 22). The impact of social media on self-esteem and how to help. Hwb. https://hwb.gov.wales/keeping-safe-online/views-from-the-experts/the-impact-of-social-media-on-self-esteem-and-how-to-help/

The impact of social networks on the individual can be measured in different areas. There are many in favor of their implementation with greater veracity of verification and others argue for the right to free expression that they should simply leave as they are. Also, some consider that without a reasonable criterion of information discrimination, social networks can be devastating for someone who does not carefully filter the content they consume, “First of all, social networks can have a positive impact on self-esteem by providing a platform for self-expression and social connection. Interaction with social networks can help people show their achievements, talents, and experiences, which leads to greater self-esteem.” At this point, I agree with you that a favorable aspect that we can take advantage of from social networks is the contribution of self-esteem and personal care, but we have also found the deviation in the esteem where vanity and edginess are what end up playing a prevalent role in those who consume this type of content. We can highlight that what is verifiable is the capacity of social networks to link and weave new never-before-thought relationships between individuals. This is not a simple matter of opinion, it is the gigantic capacity that social networks have to break boundaries, which in the beginning was their first objective and which I consider the greatest of its benefits. Social media can offer opportunities for individuals to join communities with shared interests and experiences, potentially enhancing their self-esteem by reducing feelings of social isolation (Perloff, 2014).

Reference Perloff, R. M. (2014). Social media effects on young women’s body image concerns: Theoretical perspectives and an agenda for research. Sex Roles, 71(11-12), 363-377.

Social media can have a profound effect on kids self-esteem, and their mental health. Social media might have some benefits for adults in improving their self-esteem, and giving them a platform to showcase different facets of their personality, but it can be detrimental to the self-esteem of kids. Use of social media have been linked to anxiety and depression in kids and adolescents. Unfortunately because of Covid 19 pandemic, more and more younger kids have started using different social media platforms with sometimes disastrous consequences. Kids were already under pressure from other sources of media impacting them with unrealistic body image, and expectations, but it was still controllable by parental supervision, but now with every child in possession of a smart phone, it is harder for parents to supervise what their kids are consuming on the daily basis. Social media has resulted in online bullying, excessive social pressures because of comparing themselves to what they see on social media, and addiction like behaviors. (Martin, 2019) All of these can give kids anxiety which might result in depression and suicide. Although there might be some benefits of social media use in kids, like making new friends and showcasing their skills, in the long term these benefits outweigh the risks greatly.

Martin, G.N. (2019) (why) do you like scary movies? A review of the empirical research on psychological responses to Horror films, Frontiers in psychology. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6813198/ (Accessed: 18 October 2023).

Social media is driving teen mental health crisis, Surgeon General warns (2023) NBCNews.com. Available at: https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/social-media-mental-health-anxiety-depression-teens-surgeon-general-rcna85575 (Accessed: 22 October 2023).

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The Hidden Danger of Online Beauty Filters

The more you edit your image, the greater the harm..

Posted March 25, 2023 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

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There are strong social and cultural incentives to look as good as possible, so it’s unsurprising that many people strive to present themselves in the best possible light—especially online. However, a growing body of research is revealing that digital beauty filters tend to have a negative impact on mental health.

Beauty filters are specific photo editing tools that use artificial intelligence to alter facial features in photos. Common filters are “the skinny filter” on TikTok, which makes your face look slimmer, and the “perfect face filter” on Instagram, which adjusts facial features according to an ideal ratio.

A City University of London report found that beauty filters have become increasingly popular on social media . For example, Snapchat found that over 90 percent of young people in the United States, France, and the UK use filter products on their apps. In addition, Meta reports that over 600 million people have used filters on Facebook or Instagram.

Researchers at the City University of London explored the adverse effects of filters on mental health. In a sample of 175 participants, with an average age of 20, 90 percent of young women reported using filters or editing their photos.

When asked what type of filters they used the most, participants said the most common filters were those used to even out skin tone, brighten skin, whiten teeth, bronze skin, and reduce body size. Participants also used filters on social media to reshape jaws or noses, make lips look fuller, and make eyes look bigger.

Why did the participants use filters? Ninety-four percent reported feeling pressured to look a particular way, and more than half described that pressure as intense.

Other research finds that young people with low self-esteem and poor body image are likelier to use filters, which can further reinforce the negative belief that their appearance isn’t good enough. These feelings and behaviors start quite early. Research conducted by the Dove Self-Esteem Project in 2020 found that 80 percent of girls have downloaded a filter or used an app to change how they look in photos by age 13.

In an experiment designed to investigate the relationship between selfie editing and body dissatisfaction more directly, researchers asked 130 women (average age 20) to view Instagram images of thin women or average-sized women as a way to induce body dissatisfaction in the former group. Participants were then asked to take a selfie on an iPad and were given ten minutes to edit the selfie. They completed questionnaires on their mood, body dissatisfaction, and facial dissatisfaction at baseline, after viewing the images, and after editing their selfies.

Viewing the thin images increased negative attitudes and body/facial dissatisfaction. Taking and editing the selfie increased both groups’ negative moods and facial dissatisfaction. Further, the time spent editing the selfies predicted the degree of increase in facial dissatisfaction.

Thus, it seems that investing in editing one’s self-presentation on social media is often a harmful practice for young women. And the more one does it, the more damaging it tends to be.

Young women are not only comparing their appearance to perfect images of celebrities and peers but also judging themselves against their filtered selfies. This constant comparison can be a source of great suffering and erode one’s positive body image and self-esteem.

Social comparison and beauty filters may cause users to strive for unrealistic beauty standards. As a result, young people may experience a disconnection between how they look and the edited images they share with the world. This is a specific kind of self-objectification that may even lead to serious mental health conditions like body dysmorphic disorder.

But maybe using filters on social media isn’t always bad for you. In a world where we are constantly judged (and judging others) based on appearance, it can be challenging to stop filtering your pictures. So are there ways to develop healthier filtering, posting, and scrolling habits?

First, you can start by becoming more aware of how your filters and social comparison behavior impact your body image, emotions, and well-being daily. Then, try these other suggestions for managing how you use filters that may help to preserve your self-esteem and to accept your appearance compassionately.

1. Use selfies mindfully.

Observe how much time you spend filtering and posting and how it makes you feel. Check in with your mood during and after the editing and posting process.

Once you post your selfie, notice if you want to keep checking for reactions and comparing your selfie to others. Do posting and social media comparisons enhance your well-being or detract from it? The answers may help you mindfully navigate social media in a way that will preserve or even improve your self-esteem and positive body image.

2. Consider the messages you are sending yourself.

Consider that every time you filter a selfie, you’re telling yourself, on some level of awareness, that you don’t look good enough as you are. You may ask yourself how much satisfaction you get from likes and comments if the image you represent isn’t really who you are. If our online image deviates too much from our actual appearance, we can become wary of meeting people in person. Thus, the use of beauty filters might increase social anxiety and contribute to feelings of social isolation .

3. Consider alternative social activities.

If you spend less time editing and posting, you’d theoretically have more time for outdoor activities, face-to-face interactions, or doing something creative. Think about whether filtering and posting have become a way of escaping real-life issues or expectations.

Managing your image online can give you a false sense of safety and control that we don’t have in face-to-face communication. Yet these real-time connections are among life’s most memorable and emotionally rewarding experiences. Research shows real-life friendships increase happiness and well-being far more than online connections.

4. Embrace your authentic self.

Remember that what we see as our flaws are part of what makes us interesting, honest, and relatable to others. You can practice self-compassion by accepting and appreciating yourself for all your qualities. Try Mirror Meditation to build a caring and supportive relationship with yourself. By looking at your unfiltered image for 10 minutes daily, you’ll become more comfortable with yourself as you are and more at ease with allowing your authentic self to be seen.

Tara Well, Ph.D. 2023

Facebook/LinkedIn image: Davi Costa/Shutterstock

Tara Well, Ph.D. , is a professor in the department of psychology at Barnard College of Columbia University.

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