Exploring the Influence of Social Media on Adolescent Development

This discussion post examines the significant role social media plays in the psychological and emotional development of adolescents, highlighting how it has become a central communication tool. The ease and speed of online interaction are contrasted with the decline in face-to-face communication, potentially leading to increased introversion among young people. The discussion also addresses concerns about the adverse effects of excessive online activity, such as increased risks of eating disorders, depression, and anxiety, stemming from exposure to inappropriate content like pornography and violence. It emphasizes the importance of guidance from teachers and parents in navigating this critical phase, suggesting that with proper support, adolescents can be guided toward healthy development. The post concludes by underscoring the profound impact of social media on adolescent mental and psychological growth and the necessity of guidance for young adults to mitigate potential negative outcomes.

Discussion: Module 9

Table of Contents
Introduction.................................................................................................................................................3
Adolescence and social media in today’s world..........................................................................................3
Concerned with today’s Adolescence..........................................................................................................3
Conclusion...................................................................................................................................................3
References...................................................................................................................................................4
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Introduction
During the adolescent phase there are several changes experienced on the part of an individual in
terms of their psychological and emotional development. This time is very crucial in respect to
transformation from childhood to adulthood.
Adolescence and social media in today’s world
Social media has become an integral part of today’s world (Ho, Clarke & Dougherty, 2015). The
development and evolution of cyber technology has affected everyone. Social media has become
the main source of communication, today. It has become one of the most convenient and fast
source of communication for adolescents of this generation. This has resulted in less face-to-face
interaction, on the part of adolescents of the present generation. Thus, adolescence and young
adult are becoming less social and more introvert than the previous generation. (Siddiqui &
Singh 2016).
Concerned with today’s Adolescence
Today’s generation is more addicted to online activities rather than face-to-face peers interaction.
Some researches state the fact that too much involvement in online activities increases the risk of
eating disorder, depression, anxiety (Won, Evans, Carey & Schnittka 2015). It is mainly because
of adverse impact on psychological development. They are exposed to inappropriate information
like pornographic videos and videos of violence terrorism because of unrestricted access to
various source of information. Excessive exposure to inappropriate information has adverse
psychological impact. The reason of such psychological impact is, watching such videos
increases the risk of posttraumatic distress, anxiety and depression. It is hindering the
psychological development and development of communication skills on the part of adolescents.
However, by proper guidance from teachers and parents, adolescents and teen agers can be
guided, during this phase.
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Conclusion
At the end, it can be stated that today’s social media has a huge impact on adolescence in terms
of mental and psychological growth. It is only with the help of proper guidance young adults can
be guided.
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References
Ho, E., Clarke, A., & Dougherty, I. (2015). Youth-led social change: Topics, engagement types,
organizational types, strategies, and impacts. Futures, 67, 52-62.
Siddiqui, S., & Singh, T. (2016). Social media its impact with positive and negative aspects.
International Journal of Computer Applications Technology and Research, 5(2), 071-
075.
Won, S. G., Evans, M. A., Carey, C., & Schnittka, C. G. (2015). Youth appropriation of social
media for collaborative and facilitated design-based learning. Computers in Human
Behavior, 50, 385-391.
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