Social media had become an integral part of our lives with millions of people using it daily. The impact of social media on the young generation is a topic of significant concern, as the widespread use of social media has raised questions about its efforts on mental illness and social skills are overall well-being. One of the significant impacts of social media on the young generation is their mental health.

Social media has had a profound impact on the young generation. While it has brought many benefits, it has also led to a decline in face-to-face communication skills, negatively impacted mental health, and affected academic performance. Young people must be aware of the risks associated with social media and take steps to use it responsibly. Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to create a safe and positive social media environment for the young generation.

1. Increased exposure to cyber bullying: Social media platforms provide a space for bullies to hide behind anonymity and hurt others without repercussions. Youth are particularly vulnerable to cyber bullying and may experience negative impacts on their mental health and self-esteem.

2 . Negative body image: Social media can create unrealistic expectations around body image and beauty standards. Young people may compare themselves to social media influencers and feel pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, which can lead to low self-esteem and body image issues.

3 . Addiction: The addictive nature of social media can lead to young people spending excessive amounts of time scrolling through feeds and engaging in digital communication instead of real-life interactions. This can negatively affect their mental health, social skills, and academic performance.

4  . Lack of privacy:  Social media users are often required to share personal information to use the platform, and this can make them vulnerable to online predators or identity theft.

5 . Exposure to inappropriate content: Social media platforms may expose young people to inappropriate or harmful content, such as graphic violence, sexual content, or extremist views. This can lead to increased anxiety, fear, and trauma.

In conclusion, while social media has many benefits, it is important to recognize the negative effects it can have on young people. Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to promote safe and responsible social media use and provide support for young people who may be experiencing the negative effects of social media. It is essential to balance the benefits of social media with its potential negative impacts to ensure that young people can enjoy the benefits of social media while avoiding its harmful effects.

ADITI JAIN – BA (HONS) APPILED PSYCHOLOGY