In 2021, 3 out of 5 teenage girls suffered from constantly feeling depressed due to the internet. Social media can have a negative impact on young minds, as many teenagers suffer from low self esteem and loneliness. 

A negative consequence of social media is that with the use of photoshop and other editing tools, celebrities and social media stars look unrealistic. This gives off the wrong message, making teens at home feel worse about themselves because they cannot keep up with the unrealistic ideas from society. “Social media platforms often feature images of people with seemingly perfect faces and bodies, often using filters and photo editing tools to enhance their appearance.” (Pederson)  Pederson shares her idea that celebrities are making teens feel insecure about themselves because of their editing apps. Social media is negatively affecting teens by setting unrealistic goals for them. 

Another negative is that social media also has made teens feel more alone. With technology, teenagers have access to anyone at any timeanytime. They aren’t taking as big of risks. “But when friendship is conducted online and through texts, kids are doing this in a context stripped of many of the most personal—and sometimes intimidating—aspects of communication.” (Ehmke) This shows how teens are feelingare having the feeling of being alone. Without real communication, kids aren’t making true, personal connections, causing them to feel lonely.  Social media is driving teens apart, making them feel alone. 

While social media is mainly negative, other people may argue that it has a positive impact. Some people believe that technology makes it easier for teenagers to communicate. “Many students like using their phones to collaborate while they study and do homework.” (Stade) This shows that some teens use their phones for a good reason. While using social media to study is positive, there are more negative factors. “However, multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, self-harm, and even suicidal thoughts.” (Robinson and Smith) This shows how others agree that social media is more harmful than helpful to teens. 

In conclusion, teenagers are deeply affected by comparing themselves on the internet. Teens should be enjoying their youth, rather than worrying about the way they look. Social media is becoming a harmful and toxic environment, rather than a useful tool for teenagers. 

Works Cited 

Pederson, Traci. How Does Social Media Affect Body Image? PsychCentral, reviewed by Karin   Gepp,  PhD, Updated on February 27, 2023. psychcentral.com/health/how-the-media-affects-body-image 

Ehmke, Rachel. How Using Social Media Affects Teenagers? Child Mind Institute, reviewed on August 10, 2023 childmind.org/article/how-using-social-media-affects-teenagers/ 

Stade Linda, HOW DO TEENS REALLY USE TECHNOLOGY TO COMMUNICATE? Linda Stade Educator, January 16, 2019 lindastade.com/impact-of-technology-on-communication/ 

Robinson, Lawrence and Smith, Melinda M.A. Social Media and Mental Health HelpGuide, reviewed on March 29, 2023 helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/social-media-and-mental-health.htm