The Dual Nature of Social Media: Joys and Struggles
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Chapter 1: The Rise of Social Media
Social media fulfills various roles in our lives, but not all aspects are positive; some can inflict psychological distress.
The emergence of the Internet heralded unparalleled access for researchers and everyday individuals eager to engage in significant or trivial dialogues. This technology was meant to liberate the isolated, inspire creativity, and empower those wishing to transcend limitations. However, we've witnessed both its beneficial and detrimental sides.
Currently, over 4.5 billion people engage with social media platforms, with an increase of 400 million users within a single year—almost 13 new users every second. The vast potential audience on these platforms raises several concerns, particularly regarding popular sites like Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter (now known as "X"). Most users are likely to connect via mobile devices rather than desktop computers.
With two-thirds of the global population—approximately 100 million people—having access to mobile phones, those without one face disconnection from a significant portion of the world. This exclusion raises feelings of inadequacy, leading to the phenomenon known as FOMO, or "fear of missing out." The absence of a smartphone often renders individuals vulnerable to feelings of ostracism, making mobile devices a modern status symbol. What toll does this take on mental health? Some experts believe it could be substantial.
Recent surveys indicate alarming increases in symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts among young people. Between 2009 and 2019, there was a 40% rise in high school students reporting persistent sadness or hopelessness, a 36% increase in those seriously contemplating suicide, and a 44% rise in students drafting suicide plans. Additionally, psychiatric emergency visits among youths for depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues surged by 28% from 2011 to 2015. The national suicide rate for young adults (ages 10–24) escalated by 57% from 2007 to 2018, with over 6,600 young lives lost to suicide in 2020, according to preliminary data from the National Center for Health Statistics.
These figures are alarming, but can we attribute these issues solely to social media? Mental health is complex, composed of various interconnected factors. While social media plays a role, determining its precise influence remains challenging.
Researchers suggest that social networking services (SNS) can trigger social anxiety in some individuals. Several theories explain how social media usage can lead to such anxiety. For instance, the self-presentation theory posits that individuals become increasingly aware of negative perceptions from others, believing they are being judged unfavorably based on their online personas. How many young individuals have been driven to despair by social media?
Social comparison theory states that in the absence of tangible benchmarks, people often compare themselves to others—especially when physical interactions are limited. Engaging with social networking sites tends to amplify these comparisons.
Social comparison serves as a means of assessing self-worth, and as suggested by Festinger, individuals may draw unfavorable comparisons with those less fortunate, boosting their self-esteem. Conversely, upward comparisons can diminish self-worth and are more prevalent on social media.
The concept of self-presentation, introduced by Erving Goffman in his work The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life, emphasizes that social interactions often revolve around avoiding embarrassment and preserving self-esteem. However, this isn't universally applicable.
When we observe the detrimental effects of social media interactions on mental health, it becomes apparent that these platforms can also act as destructive forces. Nonetheless, there are positive dimensions to social media that should not be overlooked.
Some adolescents find value in social media by forming supportive communities and connecting with peers who share their interests and identities. These platforms facilitate access to crucial information and allow for self-expression. The ability to forge and maintain friendships online is a significant advantage of social media for youth.
Online support networks can enhance self-esteem and help individuals navigate feelings of marginalization and harassment. The impact of social media is indeed dual-faceted. A majority of teenagers report positive experiences, such as feeling more connected to friends (80%), having a space for creative expression (71%), receiving support during tough times (67%), and feeling more accepted (58%).
Beyond social media, the Internet remains a valuable resource for diverse information, highlighting its beneficial aspects. While some may exploit these platforms for malicious purposes, they represent a minority. Encouraging more in-person interactions rather than relying solely on social media could be a prudent approach for youth. It's essential to recognize that even the videos shared on these platforms may not always provide an accurate portrayal of reality.