PSYC FPX 4210 assessment 4

Introduction

The use of social media is the application of different internet websites for international communication (Freeman, 2016). Social media websites facilitate sharing life experiences, advertising, and keeping in touch with friends and family, publicly or privately. Significantly, the largest age group of social media users is those aged 21 and below (Freeman, 2016). Studies have shown that social media has physical and psychosocial impacts on adolescents, calling for further research into its effects.

Physical & Psychosocial Impacts Regarding Social Media

It is estimated that around 14% of the US population is teenagers, and a large percentage of them use social media (LaMarre & Rice, 2017). Limited emotional regulation among teenagers results in peer pressure and undesirable behaviors on social sites such as Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat (Freeman, 2016). Societal norms and the need to belong drive both healthy and adverse effects on adolescents’ health and well-being (LaMarre & Rice, 2017). Prolonged use of social media may result in sleep problems, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and promote anxiety and depression (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015).

Teenagers usually suffer from separation anxiety when they cannot use social media, affecting family time and school life (Freeman, 2016). The compulsion to be connected all the time might lead to the formation of narcissistic personality disorders in teenagers (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). Social media might bring happiness, but it might also create unhealthy behaviors such as bullying and catfishing (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). Monitoring social media interactions can promote a respectful online community.

Current Issues Regarding Social Media

Modern problems are cyberbullying and sexting. Cyberbullying, made possible by technology, is a ubiquitous threat to adolescents, which can lead to academic failure, drug abuse, and suicide (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). Sexting, the sending of explicit messages or photos through social media or cell phones, is a major issue, particularly among emotionally troubled adolescents (Weiderhold, 2016). The effects of sexting can result in humiliation and suicidal ideation (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015).

PSYC FPX 4210 Assessment 4 Implications of Social Media 

Teenagers who are indulging in unwanted online behavior might not understand the long-term results, which is a concern whether they are adequately ready for future consequences (Ahern, Sauer & Thacker, 2015). Additional research is important to forge proper preventive action and legal intervention.

A Rationale for Proposed Research

Sexting becomes one of the top causes of devastating events in teenagers, and research is needed to determine reasons, effects, and reactions (Argo & Lowery, 2017). An estimated 5% of adolescents have sexted, showing the need to investigate legal consequences and potential danger (Argo & Lowery, 2017). Research needs to yield extensive information on sexting, such as the effect of punishment and the demand for laws that are up to date with technology.

Teenagers’ receptivity to sexual content on the internet highlights the necessity of education and awareness campaigns within schools to instill responsible behavior on the internet (LaMarre & Rice, 2017). Social interaction with family and friends can motivate teenagers to practice safe behavior on the internet, closing the gap between online and offline conduct (LaMarre & Rice, 2017).

Conclusion

Social media has a significant place in the lives of teenagers, with both beneficial and detrimental components. While connecting and enabling technological progress, it also carries risks such as cyberbullying and sexting. In-depth studies are necessary to comprehend these phenomena, informing the creation of preventive strategies and legislation. Teaching teenagers about safe online behavior and maintaining open communication can make the online world safer for generations to come.