In a world where technology is evolving at breakneck speed, social networks have become an essential part of teenagers' lives. These digital platforms offer unique opportunities for connection and self-expression. However, they also entail challenges and risks for the well-being of young users.
Introduction to social networks and their role among teenagers
Social networks, such as Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok, have established themselves as central spaces for teenagers' social interaction. They enable young people to share moments from their lives, express their opinions and connect with people with similar interests. The algorithms on these platforms play a major role in the way content is presented to users. They influence what they see, and bring engaging content to the fore. However, constant exposure to idealized images and narratives on social networks can have a negative impact on adolescents' self-esteem, leading them to unfavorable social comparisons (Li, Shen, & Zhang, 2023) REF[^1^].
The growing importance of social networks in the lives of teenagers
The integration of these platforms into teenagers' daily lives reflects a significant transformation in the way they communicate and socialize. These digital tools facilitate access to a vast online community. They also influence young people's perception of themselves and the world around them.
According to a 2022 survey conducted by Diplomeo in collaboration with BDE, 78% of teenagers who own a cell phone also have an account on social networks, while 40% of young people aged 16 to 25 spend an average of between 3 and 5 hours on them every day.
The impact of social networks on adolescents' mental health
Effects on self-esteem and feelings of loneliness
Overexposure to idealized images and narratives online can have a negative impact on teenagers' self-esteem, leading them to make unfavorable social comparisons. Similarly, while these platforms represent opportunities for connection, they can also contribute to a sense of loneliness and isolation among some young people.
Adolescent mental health and social media use
Overuse of social networks has been associated with various psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the effects of this overexposure, highlighting the need for moderate, conscious use (Aisyah et al., 2023) REF[^2^].
The fear of missing out (FOMO) and its influence
The phenomenon of FOMO, exacerbated by these platforms, pushes teenagers to stay glued to their screens, for fear of missing important events or interactions. This pressure can lead to stress and anxiety. This can impact on their general well-being. In addition, cyberbullying is a major challenge on these media, with a profound impact on young people's psychology. Studies have shown that teachers play an important role in managing this scourge, offering decision-making models to help guide students in dealing with these situations (Zhao et al., 2022) REF[^3^].
Adolescent socialization in the digital age
Comparison of online and offline socialization
This type of platform offers new spaces for socializing. They enable young people to stay in touch, exchange information and provide emotional support to their friends. Nevertheless, they are no substitute for face-to-face interaction. Indeed, the latter are fundamental to the development of social and emotional skills. A balance between the two forms of socialization is necessary for the healthy development of adolescents.
Social media as a place to socialize: benefits and challenges
Social networks also help induce a sense of belonging, especially for young people who feel marginalized in their immediate environment. However, they also present challenges, such as cyberstalking and peer pressure, which can have negative consequences on mental health (Aulia, Nurhidayani, & Afriona, 2019) REF[^4^].
Impact on social relations and isolation
The use of these digital platforms influences the quality of teenagers' social relationships, with varying effects on their sense of connection and isolation. Using networks in a balanced way is therefore necessary to promote healthy relationships and avoid social isolation.
The positive and negative effects of social networking
The benefits of connectivity and online support
Social media can play a positive role in teenagers' lives. They help maintain a social bond, as they facilitate communication with peers. They also provide a space for self-expression and self-discovery. Users can use them as a means of helping each other.
The risks of overexposure and inappropriate use
However, excessive or inappropriate use of these tools by children and young people can put their mental health and well-being at risk. They are not immune to inappropriate content, possible cyber-bullying and compulsive use of the platforms.
Strategies for balancing effects
It's important to adopt strategies to balance the effects of social networking on teenagers. These include setting limits on use, promoting offline activities and social media education. These various solutions help to develop a critical and conscious use of these tools.
The role of parents and social media education by adults
How parents can help manage the use of these tools
Parents play a key role in managing their children's use of these platforms. They can, for example, establish clear rules such as setting the number of hours per day on social networks and screens. Open discussion of online experiences is also encouraged. Education about potential risks and responsible online behavior is also crucial.
Best practices for healthy use of these networks
It's important to encourage good practices for healthy use of social networks, such as raising awareness of privacy management, recognizing and preventing cyberstalking, and valuing face-to-face interactions.
The importance of social media education for teenagers and their families
This education is fundamental to helping teenagers and their families navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly. This includes learning digital literacy, understanding the impact of these platforms on mental health, and developing skills for critical use of these tools.
In conclusion
Social networks have a profound impact on teenagers' sociability. They offer both opportunities and challenges. A balanced approach involving conscious, moderate use and active support from parents and educators is essential to maximize the benefits. It also minimizes the risks associated with these digital media.
Disclaimer
This article provides an overview based on general research and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. For specific concerns, please consult a specialist.
References
REF [^1^]. Li, X., Shen, H., & Zhang, Z. (2023). Fabricating Salacious Rumors on the Internet exists among Adolescents Affect the Emotions, Mental Health, and Well-being of Bystanders or Spreaders. Journal of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. https://dx.doi.org/10.54097/ehss.v22i.13353
REF [^2^]. Aisyah, F., Juliansyah, D., Salamah, U., Utama, M. A., Falah, O. K., & Miati, A. (2023). PENGARUH MEDIA SOSIAL TERHADAP KESEHATAN MENTAL PADA REMAJA. Journal of Education and Learning. https://dx.doi.org/10.61994/educate.v1i1.114
REF [^3^]. Zhao, H.-b., Weng, H., Weng, Q., Huang, Z., & Lee, K. C. S. (2022). Teachers' management of cyberbullying on China's social media sites: A case study in Shandong Province, China. Cognition and Communication. https://dx.doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2022.2127502
REF [^4^]. Aulia, P., Nurhidayani, W., & Afriona, V. (2019). The Correlation of Assertive Behavior and Online Gaming Addiction with Cyberbullying Behavior at Social Media in Adolescents in Padang City. Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking. https://dx.doi.org/10.1515/9783110679977-018
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