SOCIAL MEDIA IS RUINING CHILDHOOD

The pre-vote and post-vote of this EC & I 830 debate show that both sides of the argument had important points to put into consideration before concluding whether social media is ruining childhood or not.

Social media is a term used to describe a group of online platforms and technologies that allow users to share and interact with others’ information, ideas, and multimedia content. Platforms for social media can be text-based (such as Twitter and LinkedIn), image-based (such as Instagram and Snapchat), video-based (such as YouTube and TikTok), and community-based (such as Facebook and Reddit) in nature. Social media has transformed how people communicate with one another and has made it simpler than ever to stay in touch with friends, family, and acquaintances throughout the globe. To advertise their goods, services, and individual brands, businesses, organizations, and people now all depend on social media.

Using social media effectively can help you build and maintain relationships, establish your personal or professional brand, and achieve your goals. Social media is a two-way conversation that involves engagement with your audience to build relationships. The response gotten is based on the value provided. So what value do you put out there?

Social media can, however, be misused and have detrimental effects on people, businesses, and society at large. The information someone posts on social media can be used to disseminate misinformation, fake news, and exploitation without the person’s knowledge or agreement, which can have major repercussions for the general public’s health, the stability of politics, and social cohesion. These are just a few instances of inappropriate social media use. These hazards must be understood by individuals and society at large, and action must be taken to reduce them.

Is social media ruining childhood?

Absolutely, it certainly can, especially if there is an inadequate direction and excessive exposure. “In this digital age, open discussion and freedom of expression are always welcome online; but NOT when it is reckless, irresponsible or harmful to others.” ― Germany Kent. Evie’s magazine emphasized how social media affects children and she gave various examples in the article I would be talking about in this paragraph “Social Media is Destroying an Entire Generation of Kids” by Freya India on Evie Magazine. Because of the devastation it causes to youngsters, I’ll start with cyberbullying. After all, they may lack the social and emotional maturity to cope with it. Kids are exposed to an array of materials, some of which are violent, sexual, or otherwise unsuitable. Their growth and well-being may be negatively impacted by exposure to such content. Also, children who become addicted to social media run the risk of acquiring additional mental health conditions like anxiety and sadness due to sleep deprivation. As a result of the pressure to live up to unrealistic expectations of success, popularity, or beauty, children are also more likely to have low self-esteem and other mental health problems. Social media companies might potentially gather and distribute users’ data without getting their permission, which could result in privacy violations and other problems.

Therefore, parents, carers, and educators need to be aware of these vulnerabilities and take action to reduce them. This entails establishing social media usage guidelines, keeping an eye on kids’ online activities, and educating them about online privacy and safety. Social media can benefit childhood if used in this way since it enables kids to interact with friends and family who live far away or who they don’t see much. They may be able to keep friendships and foster a feeling of community as a result. Videos, essays, and interactive games are just a few examples of educational information that can be found on social media. Social media can be used by kids to develop new abilities, discover interests, and increase their knowledge. The ability to network and stay informed about current affairs can help kids improve their critical thinking abilities and have a better understanding of the world around them. Children who are exposed to different viewpoints and cultures through social media are better able to empathize with and comprehend other people. Children can receive encouraging feedback on social media in the form of likes and comments, which can increase their motivation and sense of self-worth.These advantages must be recognized by parents, guardians, and educators, who must encourage youngsters to use social media in healthy and constructive ways. This entails establishing social media usage policies and procedures, keeping an eye on kids’ online behaviour, and fostering digital literacy and online security.

By adhering to some fundamental rules and best practices, children can successfully use social media. Age restrictions are common on social media sites, and for good reason. One of Eva Amin’s TEDx conference videos ( Social Media isn’t bad: you’re just using it wrong) highlighted the advantages of using social media responsibly. Platforms for social media use by children should reflect their age and degree of maturity. The entire name, location, phone number, or name of their school should not be shared by children online. Sharing images or videos that could be used to pinpoint their identity or location should also be done with caution. It’s critical to treat others with kindness and respect online to prevent cyberbullying and other hurtful behaviour. Social media can be used by kids as a tool for education and creativity. Students can join online forums, contribute their work and thoughts, and follow accounts that are instructive or artistic. To prevent addiction, sleep deprivation, and other negative effects, children should also take breaks from social media and limit their screen time. They should also speak with trusted adults, such as parents, teachers, or counsellors, about any worries or issues they may have regarding social media. This might assist them in receiving support and direction as they deal with issues or challenges.

In conclusion, it is up to parents, guardians, and educators to keep an eye on their children’s online activities as well as to offer advice and support on how to utilize social media healthily. People must use social media wisely and thoughtfully because it has both advantages and disadvantages. The information shared with a single click is what it all comes down to. “These days, common sense is not so common on social media. Rule of thumb should be if you wouldn’t write it offline and sign your name to it then don’t post it online.” ― Germany Kent