Social Media Impact

Project Description

For the Social Media Impact project, I wanted to see if social media takes a toll on my well-being. I also researched how it affects more than just myself, but society as a whole!

Social Media Addiction Survey

Results

According to this survey, I'm fairly reliant on social media, but there are far worse culprits! Still, it's good to be reminded that UK adults spend an average of 8 hrs 41 mins on screens every day, and 4 hours of that on smartphone apps alone (mainly social media). That's about a third of each day checking apps. Do you need to rethink your social media habits and the amount of time you spend scrolling?

My Reflection

I agree with this statement! I feel that I am on social media more than I should be. However, I know that I could be way more active on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat as well. According to my screen time on my iPhone, I was on my phone for 2 hours 52 minutes. That right there states that I am on my phone way less than most UK adults. I spent 26 minutes on Snapchat, 26 minutes on Instagram, 4 minutes on TikTok, and I didn't check Facebook. My other apps that were used included Spotify, Safari, FaceTime, and Messages. 

Social Media's Impact on Society

The only thing I think social media is beneficial for is communication. Other than that, I think it is negative for our society. I think it takes a toll on an individual's mental health, especially women. As a woman, I find myself at times comparing myself to other women, especially when it comes to physical appearance. I also feel that social media can be dangerous. I think it's important to have private accounts due to privacy and safety, so you can control who sees your content. 

Lessons Learned

I had a lot of fun learning about this topic and how it affects me and the people around me. I feel that I am still on social media more than I should be, and I need to learn to practice gratitude for what I have. You never know what goes on behind closed doors, and people choose what they want to put on social media. 

Sources

Gottfried, J. (2024, January 31). Americans’ social media use. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/01/31/americans-social-media-use/#other-demographic-differences-in-use-of-online-platforms