Why and How Social Media affects students negatively

Social media is very addicting to teens and, frankly, everybody around the world. It can be addicting because it provides a sense of connection. It is designed to keep us engaged with notifications and endless scrolling, but it is important to take breaks and not let it consume our lives.

 This can affect students in various ways, and especially for students, it can be a distraction from schoolwork. This can cause us to be sidetracked when we really are trying to focus. Notifications, scrolling feeds, and the temptation to check your phone can make it hard to stay on track. Since many social media apps produce engaging content, it is so easy to get sucked into the world of social media and lose track of time. Spending excessive time on these apps can lead to decreased productivity and reduced time for important tasks such as homework. 

Another reason social media affects students negatively is the mental health impact that comes along with it. It’s associated with feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and anxiety due to constant comparisons with curated online personas, which can possibly result in cyberbullying; leading to feelings of sadness, anxiety, low self-esteem, and even depression. The constant harassment and negative comments can be overwhelming and make students feel isolated.Additionally, addiction is another common problem, giving teens a persistent need for likes, comments, and validation. Seeking validation through likes and comments can lead to self-esteem issues if the desired level of achievement isn’t achieved. 

Another con about students using social media is the spread of misinformation. False information can quickly go viral and mislead people. Fake news being presented can even impact public understanding of events.

 However, social media is also a platform for learning, networking, and self-expression when used responsibly. It’s important for students to find a healthy balance and use social media mindfully.