SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT ON YOUTH

SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT ON YOUTH

Introduction

We cannot ignore the fact that social media is one of the biggest element that is present in our lives today. We can get any information, talk to anyone in any corner of the world at a much fast speed. The youth is the future of our nation; they can make or break the economy. Social media is one the most engaging elements that is present in their lives today. Social media has far reaching impact on the youth, as they are the ones who are most active on social networking sites. Social media has far reaching impact on the youth, as they are the ones who are most active on social networking sites.

Social Network Impact on Youth

It’s a fad these days to be on social networking sites. If you do not have a digital presence than for some people you do not exist. The ever rising pressure of being on social networking sites and have an impressive profile is effecting the youth in big way. According to statistics average number of hours a teenager spends online is 72 hours per week. This is very high considering that they have to give time to study, physical activities and other beneficial activities like reading etc. It leaves very less time for other things and hence there are serious issues that arise out of this like lack of attention span, minimum focus, anxiety and complex issues. We now have more virtual friends than real ones and we are losing human to human connection day by day. There are other dangers as well like leaking of personal information to complete strangers, sex offenders etc. There are some positive effects.

Positive Impacts of Social Media-

1. It is a good tool for education.
2. It can create awareness for many social issues.
3. There is a fast transfer of information online and hence the users can stay well informed.
4. It can also be used as a news medium.
5. There are few social benefits as well like communication with long distance friends and relatives.
6. It can provide great employment opportunities online.

We agree that there are positive impacts of social network but like everything else it also has cons.

There are many negative impacts also:

Negative Impacts of Social Media-

1. Enables cheating in exams
2. Dropping of grades and performance of students
3. Lack of privacy
4. Users are vulnerable to cyber-crimes like hacking, identity theft, phishing crimes etc.

Conclusion: There are no doubt both positive and negative aspects but users should use their own discretion on the usage of social networking. As a student you must balance everything like studies, sports and social media properly to live a fuller life.