Positive and Negative Effects of Social Media

Positive and Negative Effects of Social Media

Let's face it! Social media isn't going anywhere.  It's here to stay.  Whether we as parents like it or not.  I would like to share with you the positive and negative effects social media has on our kids.  I initially thought as a parent, I would just avoid it and not let my kids have access to it, but the reality is, none of us can run from it.  At some point in life, we need it and we need to know how to use it.  I think if we understand the positive and negative effects, it can help us recognize what's important and help us manage how we use it. 

The internet has endless amounts of information in regards to social media and how it can be positive or negative in our lives.  I want to highlight the ones I feel are most important, especially for our children. 

• Social media allows for speedy communication between parent and child  

Believe me, I know how convenient this is. It is so nice to be able to contact your child whenever you need too. Another plus about this is you can watch their communication with others. Most social media formats allow for others to view the conversation or comments given by someone else and not just you. Can you see why parents might like this? 

•  Social media helps children develop technological skills 

By allowing your children to learn new things on various apps, this can help with their ability to work the latest technology and can help develop skills that might be useful in their careers. 

• Kids can express themselves creatively

 I think this is an important thing for children to learn. Social media can help them express themselves in a different way, which might be beneficial depending on the child and their personality.        

• Networking with others for a positive purpose

 Allowing your child to share uplifting and positive things through social media can have a huge positive effect on others.  This is something I feel is always good.  The world needs more good and this allows them to share that with others.  

• Social media can be very addicting for children 

Studies have shown that children who participate in social media apps show extreme addictive behavior and have trouble focusing on other things.  

• Creates an unrealistic lifestyle making children dissatisfied with their own

In my opinion, I think that this is a huge problem with social media.  Everyone tends to share or post all the positive in their lives and never the negative.  This creates an unrealistic life.  I think children struggle with this more than adults.  As adults, we understand that not everything is always "Peachy," but I think children haven't experienced enough in their own lives to realize this isn't how life truly is.

• Can lead to cybercrime and cyberbullying

Despite the absence of physical contact, this can be even more traumatizing than traditional bullying.  Think of how fast something could spread on social media.  This is definitely a concern that every parent should be aware of.      

• Offensive, explicit and violent content is easily accessible through social media

 When you have access to social media apps you are exposed to other content.  Some of which are offensive, and inappropriate. Some social media apps allow for restrictions, but unfortunately, it doesn't screen everything. 

• Conclusion

I hope by reading this blog post you find yourself a little more educated about the positive and negative effects of social media.  If you still aren't sure about allowing your children to have social media accounts, it may be a good idea to do your own research.  This might help you decide if allowing your children access to social media is worth the outcome.  Feel free to add any additional comments below.  I would love to hear other parent's thoughts!