Teens are addicted to social media, because they have more time and it is actually harmful for them if not used correctly. Research has shown that teens are supposed to be getting 9.5 hours of sleep every day, however, they are only getting 7.5 hours of sleep because of the uses of social media.
More into social media
Kids start to use social media between the ages from 10-14. A research from an expert Amanda Lenhart has shown that 24% of the kids go online constantly “92% of teens report going online daily — including 24% who say they go online “almost constantly,” according to a new study from Pew Research Center. More than half (56%) of teens — defined in this report as those ages 13 to 17 — go online several times a day, and 12% report once-a-day use. Just 6% of teens report going online weekly, and 2% go online less often.” (Pew research center). Some of the most popular ones are YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Snap-chat etc.
So why are teens so addicted to social media then? Kids are addicted to get the “likes” from people to show their popularity, low likes may show their low social status and higher likes would show that they’re popular and self-confident. Another reason why teens are addicted to social media would be the fear of missing out, teens are more likely to follow the “hype” stuffs. For example, what’s the most popular songs, number 1 trending on YouTube, new movies coming out or a post from something new happened in school (new events, couples, fights) etc.
So how will social media affect them?
Social media may be great for them to learn online, interact with others, listen to music and watch some videos to release stress. However, it may affect them negatively. From my own experience, I always stay up late to talk with my friends or watch YouTube videos, not getting enough sleep. It may be a waste of time if without self-control, and at the same time, people may become a victim of cyber-bulling and scam. One of my friends suffered from social media, she was sharing about the negative things she faced mostly every day. Many people commented words such as “aw are you okay” “I’m so worried about you” “ hope you get better”. But what she didn’t know was the fact that the people who commented on her post were actually making fun of her in real life. Therefore, teens should not be posting personal stuffs such as your address, phone number, or any negatives about yourself. If teens use social media all the time, it’ll just waste their time and energy, Why not go outside and meet with people, hangout with your friends, play basketball. Instead of staying on your phone the whole time, making friends is a really important skill that you’ll need in life.
About The Author
Jiuzhen Chen, is a sophomore student from Irvington High School, Fremont, CA. He is passionate about social and emotional issues in our society, especially among the teens. He reaches out and offers helps to anybody who needs social support.