How Does Social Media Effect Youth?

By Juliette P

Accessing internet today, is as easier than ever which easily pushes people to use it in an incorrect way. Studies show that it’s the 12-21 age group that access social media more than anyone. I am in this age group and I am one of the many people that are constantly using social media to contact people, for research, when I’m bored, to know what my friends are doing etc. I am aware that my generation, including me, often misuse technology. A summer intern that is part of my age group, has published an article denouncing five ways in which technology has had a negative influence on youth: Social websites become their first priority, rather than the things that should come first such as school, family and sports. People portray themselves as someone they’re not. Young people can begin cyberbullying which can lead to many things such as depression and suicidal thoughts. Some youth are easily influenced so they may feel the need to change their physical apparence by comparing themselves to the next person they see in the media. Social media is a very powerful temptation, so it can also become addicting and begin to start sidetracking the youth.

How Does Social Media Affect Youth?