Social Media Impact

Project Description:

This project is to decide the impact social media has on society and users themselves by looking at data and research of the increased use of social media. I as a user of social media will be taking a personalized quiz on my social media usage  to form a stronger opinion on social media.

Social Media Addiction Survey Results

Interesting Social Media Statistic

One interesting fact is that YouTube and Facebook continue to dominate the most used social media apps with 81% and 69% in US adults compared to only 21% for TikTok. I find this interesting because YouTube and Facebook are not pushed onto us as much as TikTok, with it being one the fastest growing applications in less time YouTube and Facebook has been around, especially with the biggest age group on TikTok being adults themselves. Though looking at the accessibility and watch form of TikTok, it is not a reliable form of entertainment and making relationships, compared to YouTube and Facebook. I am on YouTube most of the time because of the long form videos and having a space with less negative media shown. 

Social Media Impact on Society

Social media is negatively impacting society as kids are the main demographic being misinformed easily by the media because of their undeveloped cognitive skills, meaning a higher risk of being misled by persuasive communication compared to adults. With the rise of AI videos portraying kid stylized characters but using inappropriate themes and being posted on all forms of media where kids lurk on is a problem. According to American Public University, social media enables predatory adults to groom children by text with minors, making it easier to be exploited. Also, it being easier to spread false information with much of the public having confirmation bias and refusing to double check their information. All it takes is a professional looking format of the misinformation to look true and believable to deceive others. Producing a toxic space for mental and physical health that many, especially teens, consume, which causes suicidal thoughts, body issues, and depression. I do believe social media does have the pros with it being more reliable for communication, networking and building careers but when the cons have a more severe damage, it does not do the pros of justice. 

Lesson Learned

I learned that we urgently need digital literacy skills to combat misinformation and restrict social media to prevent addiction and mental health issues. Having these skills can pave the way for easily influencing demographics to be better prepared and seek help when they come across misinformation and individuals who take advantage of impressionable people. 

Sources in APA Citation

Ashar, L. C. (2024, May 2). Social media impact: How social media sites affect society. American Public University. https://www.apu.apus.edu/area-of-study/business-and-management/resources/how-social-media-sites-affect-society/