The American Psychological Association's Monitor on Psychology published an article on the pros and cons of social media use by teens and what to do about them. The goal was "to add science-backed balance to the discussion" (p. 48). Doubtless social media as a part of teen life is here to stay. An estimated 4.9 billion people throughout the world are expected to use it in 2023.
As for its harms, social media can justifiably be accused of contributing to rising rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among adolescents. To illustrate, each of Facebook's graduated rollouts to colleges was followed by declines in their students' mental health. This decline may partly reflect the adolescent brain's sensitivity to attention and social support as well as its immaturity in the brain's regions of self-control. The early teen years are especially vulnerable due to puberty's many changes.
The biggest plus for social media for teens is that it meets their increased need for social connection. Healthy socialization can be promoted, especially for those who are shy or socially isolated, by giving opportunities for practicing conversational skills and developing social networks. Time spent on social media meeting and conversing with peers can allow for the exploration of personal identity. Kids can learn about themselves. However, there are pitfalls . "Technology is expertly designed to pull us in" (p. 50). Too much social media engagement can derail teenage development. Sleep, physical activity, schoolwork, and in-person engagement can be reduced too much. Mental health becomes impaired.
In the article, more parental oversight is recommended. Adults can keep an eye out for signs of misuse and intervene. Parental limits and boundary setting can be helpful. For example, devices can be removed from the bedroom. Grown-ups can talk to their teens about social media's benefits and harms. They can monitor and reduce content related to physical appearance, unsafe behaviors like substance abuse and self-harm, and cyberbullying. Constructive activities and interactions can be supported by parents showing interest and encouraging them. Adults can support societal efforts to make platforms safer for kids by advocating for education about digital literacy and for legislation to protect children from the abuses of social media.
REFERENCE
Weir, K. (2023). Protecting teens on social media. Monitor on Psychology, 54(6), 46-53.