Impacts of social media on young Australians
Social media has been linked to a variety of negative effects on young adults, including an increase in feelings of depression and anxiety, a decrease in self-esteem, and a greater likelihood of cyberbullying. The constant need for validation and comparison with others on social media can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and self-worth.
Additionally, social media use has been associated with a decrease in face-to-face communication skills as people spend more time interacting online rather than in person. This can lead to difficulties in building and maintaining relationships, and can also contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Moreover, social media platforms are known to manipulate thoughts and ideology by showing tailored content based on the users’ history, opinions and search, which can lead to an echo chamber where the user is only exposed to one side of the story, leading to lack of critical thinking and bias.
Furthermore, social media is a breeding ground for misinformation, which can lead to confusion and mistrust of credible sources. The spread of misinformation is a serious concern as it can influence public opinion and policy decisions.
Lastly, social media addiction is a real concern as the constant need to check for updates, likes, and comments can lead to compulsive behavior and a lack of impulse control. It can cause individuals to prioritize social media over other important activities and relationships in their life, leading to neglect of responsibilities and a decrease in overall well-being.
Our organization empowers young adults to use social media with awareness by providing them with the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions about their online behavior. We educate them about the potential negative effects of social media and teach them methods to manage their social media use, such as setting time limits and being mindful of the content they consume. We also provide tips on how to have a healthy balance between online and offline communication and activities. By equipping young adults with this knowledge, we empower them to use social media in a responsible and healthy way.