Social Media Usage: Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues for Teenagers

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of social media on children and teenagers. It begins by defining social media platforms and highlighting their global popularity. The report explores the positive impacts, such as enhanced technological skills and peer-based learning, while also addressing the negative consequences, including addiction, mental health issues, and cyberbullying. Ethical, legal, and social issues are discussed, including cybercrime, privacy concerns, and the impact of online criticism. The report also covers professional issues, such as a lack of understanding of social media's implications, and offers mitigation techniques like restricted usage time, content filtering, and counseling. Finally, it outlines relevant laws for preventing cyberbullying, including those related to early years settings and the Prevent Duty. The report draws on various research studies and legal frameworks to provide a balanced and informed perspective on this important topic.