Is Social Media Good for Teens?

Social Media 

Social media is a computer-based technology that facilitates the sharing of ideas, thoughts, and information through virtual networks and communities. The largest social media networks include Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok.

Teen Social Media Statistics

Surveys show that 90% of teens ages 13-17 have used social media. Seventy five percent report having at least one active social media profile, and 51% report visiting a social media site at least daily. Two thirds of teens have their own mobile devices with internet capabilities. On average, teens are online almost nine hours a day, not including time for homework.

What impact does social media use have on teens?

- Benefits

Social media allows teens to create online identities, communicate with others and build social networks. These networks can provide teens with valuable support, especially helping those who experience exclusion or have disabilities or chronic illnesses.

Teens also use social media for entertainment and self-expression. And the platforms can expose teens to current events, allow them to interact across geographic barriers and teach them about a variety of subjects, including healthy behaviors. Social media that's humorous or distracting or provides a meaningful connection to peers and a wide social network might even help teens avoid depression.

- Harms

However, social media use also negatively affect teens. 

The risks might be related to how much social media teens use. A 2019 study of more than 6,500 12- to 15-year-olds, found that those who spent more than three hours a day using social media might be at heightened risk for mental health problems. Another 2019 study of more than 12,000 13- to 16-year-olds in England found that using social media more than three times a day predicted poor mental health and well-being in teens.

Other studies also have observed links between high levels of social media use and depression or anxiety symptoms. A 2016 study of more than 450 teens found that greater social media use, nighttime social media use and emotional investment in social media — such as feeling upset when prevented from logging on — were each linked with worse sleep quality and higher levels of anxiety and depression.

You can make it still safe.

There are steps you can take ti encourage responsible use of social media, and limit some of it's negative effects.

1) Set reasonable limits

Talk about how to avoid letting social media interfere with his/her activities, sleep, meals or homework.

2) Monitor your teen's account

Let your teen know that you'll be regularly checking on his/her social media accounts. You might aim to do so once a week or more. Make sure you follow through.

3) Explain what is not OK

Discourage your teen from gossiping, spreading rumors, bullying or damaging someone's reputation. Talk about what's appropiate and safe to share on social media.

4) Talk about social media

Talk about your own social media habits. Ask your teen how he/she is using social media and how it makes him/her feel. Remind that social media is full of unrealistic images.

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Let's more aware in this digital industry!