The utilization of social media is defined as the use of various websites on the internet to communicate with people worldwide (Freeman, 2016). Social media serves as a platform for sharing life memories, marketing, and staying connected with family and friends, either publicly or privately. Notably, a significant portion of social media users comprises individuals aged 21 or younger (Freeman, 2016). Research indicates that social media has physical and psychosocial effects on teenagers, necessitating further exploration of its various aspects.

Physical & Psychosocial Impacts Regarding Social Media

Approximately 14% of the U.S. population consists of teenagers, and this number continues to rise globally, with a substantial portion engaging in social media use (LaMarre & Rice, 2017). The inability of teenagers to fully regulate their emotions contributes to peer pressure and harmful behavior on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat (Freeman, 2016). The societal standards and the desire to belong lead to both positive and negative impacts on teenagers’ health and development (LaMarre & Rice, 2017). Overuse of social media can result in sleep disturbances, affecting circadian rhythms and increasing the risk of anxiety and depression (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015).

Teenagers often experience separation anxiety when unable to access social media, emphasizing emotional attachment and potential negative consequences on family time and school activities (Freeman, 2016). The need for constant connection may contribute to the development of narcissistic personality disorders among teenagers (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). While social media can evoke joy and excitement, it can also lead to negative behaviors such as bullying and catfishing (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). To ensure a positive experience, individuals must monitor their interactions on social media, fostering a respectful and kind online environment.

Current Issues Regarding Social Media

Contemporary issues associated with social media include cyberbullying and sexting. Cyberbullying, facilitated by technology, presents a pervasive threat to teenagers, potentially leading to detrimental effects such as academic decline, substance abuse, and even suicide (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). Sexting, defined as sending explicit messages or images via social media or cell phones, poses a significant problem, particularly among emotionally vulnerable teenagers pressured into such acts (Weiderhold, 2016). The consequences of sexting may result in humiliation and contribute to suicidal thoughts (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015).

PSYC FPX 4210 Assessment 4 Implications of Social Media

Teenagers engaging in negative online behaviors may not fully comprehend the long-term consequences, raising concerns about their preparedness for future repercussions (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). It is crucial to explore these issues further through research to develop effective preventive measures and appropriate legal responses.

A Rationale for Proposed Research

Sexting emerges as a leading cause of tragic incidents among teenagers, emphasizing the need for research to understand the motivations, consequences, and appropriate responses (Argo & Lowery, 2017). Approximately 5% of teenagers have engaged in sexting, highlighting the importance of exploring the legal ramifications and potential harm caused by current responses (Argo & Lowery, 2017). Research should focus on developing comprehensive insights into sexting, including the impact of punishment and the necessity of updated laws that align with technological advancements.

Teenagers’ openness to sexual content online underscores the need for education and awareness programs in schools to guide responsible online behavior (LaMarre & Rice, 2017). Engaging with friends and family can encourage teenagers to adopt safe practices online, bridging the gap between online and offline behavior (LaMarre & Rice, 2017).

Conclusion

Social media is a crucial aspect of teenagers’ lives, offering both positive and negative elements. While it provides opportunities for connection and technological advancement, it also poses risks such as cyberbullying and sexting. Comprehensive research is essential to understanding the dynamics of these issues, guiding the development of effective preventive measures and legal responses. By educating teenagers on responsible online behavior and fostering open communication, society can create a safer and more positive online environment for future generations.

References

Ahern, N. R., Sauer, P., & Thacker, P. (2015). Risky behaviors and social networking sites: How is YouTube influencing our youth? Journal of Psychosocial Nursing, 53(10), 25–29.

Argo, T., & Lowery, L. (2017). The effects of social media on adolescent health and well-being. Journal of Adolescent Health, 60(2), S75–S76.

Freeman, J. (2016). Possible effects of electronic social media on gifted and talented children’s intelligence and emotional development. Gifted Education International, 32(2), 165–172.

LaMarre, A., & Rice, C. (2017). Hashtag recovery: #Eating disorder recovery on Instagram. Social Sciences, 6(3), 1–15.

Weiderhold, B. K. (2016). How to market use of social media to improve older adults’ health. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 19(12), 695.

PSYC FPX 4210 Assessment 4 Implications of Social Media