The Impact of Social Media on Youth

In today’s world, alongside the advancement of technology, internet usage has become widespread. The internet, used in many areas from our pockets to our homes, provides a social network platform that draws people in. This platform, where people share their thoughts, works, and even businesses, brings social media to the forefront. Research shows that social media usage affects users’ lives both positively and negatively.

Positive Effects of Social Media

Social media can be used anywhere with internet access and the technology to access these platforms. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor and educate children and young people about the conscious use of social media. The use of social media among individuals aged 12-21 should be evaluated considering various factors. Individuals in this age group are born into the 21st-century digital world, making their use of the internet and social media platforms different from older generations.

Before discussing the negative effects of social media, let’s explore its benefits when used consciously. The COVID-19 pandemic, which brought significant changes to our lives in 2020, has also influenced this field. Social media platforms, where people used to chat, share their feelings, and post pictures, have become spaces where students can study, exchange knowledge and ideas, and access academic content. Additionally, students can participate in live sessions by academics and easily reach essential resources for their education. This also allows individuals who are naturally shy or struggle with face-to-face communication to express themselves more easily.

The positive effects of social media on young people can be listed as follows:

• Maintaining social relationships: Keeping in touch with friends and collaborating on group projects.

• Helping shy individuals socialize: Facilitating communication initiation.

• Educational support: Access to academic live streams and study resources.

• Language and cultural development: Interaction with different people, foreign language practice, and cultural awareness.

• Content creation: Developing skills on platforms like blogs, YouTube, or Instagram.

• Gaining knowledge: Increasing knowledge and inspiration through content tailored to personal interests.

• Access to current events: Keeping up with world affairs in areas such as economics, politics, science, and technology.

Negative Effects of Social Media

While social media has many positive effects when used correctly, what about its negative impacts when used irresponsibly?

Social media is a platform where both familiar and unfamiliar individuals interact. Users often communicate with real people with verified identities, but at times, they may encounter fake profiles. Realizing that they are interacting with a non-authentic individual can be distressing for young people. Moreover, interacting with fake accounts may put young individuals at risk physically, emotionally, and financially.

The negative effects of social media on young people can be listed as follows:

1. Hate Speech, Insults, and Threats

   • Aggressive and harmful rhetoric is widespread on social media.

   • Posted content can leave a digital footprint, potentially causing reputation issues in the future.

2. Cyberbullying

   • Harassment, threats, and unauthorized sharing of personal information can occur.

3. Comparison and Self-Perception Issues

   • Feelings of worthlessness based on likes and follower counts.

   • Viewing peers’ seemingly perfect lives may make one’s own life feel dull.

4. Uncontrolled Consumption

   • Desire to fit in can lead to unnecessary shopping.

   • Advertisements increase consumerism.

5. Exposure to Disturbing Content

   • Violent and frightening visuals may lead to anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.

6. Security Threats

   • Oversharing personal information increases risks of stalking or exploitation.

   • Fake accounts may be used for fraud or malicious purposes.

7. Lack of Social Skills and Attention Problems

   • Struggling with face-to-face communication, attention deficits, and physical fatigue.

   • Using a phone before bedtime negatively impacts learning.

8. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)

   • Anxiety and addiction due to the fear of missing social media updates.

Recommendations for Parents Regarding Youth’s Social Media Use

Parents often face challenges in supervising their children’s internet and technology use. However, instead of banning social media outright, it is crucial to regulate and control its use. Children who are monitored by their parents are less likely to develop social media addiction, encounter harmful content, or become victims of cyberbullying. Parents should educate their children from an early age and encourage them to share any negative experiences they face on social media. Additionally, it is essential to remind young users that information shared on social media should be critically assessed, just as in real life.

When used correctly, technology supports success, but when it becomes harmful, seeking professional help should not be overlooked.