Social Media Impact

Project Overview

The Social Media Impact project is meant to give you a deeper insight into how the way you use the internet directly effects you, whether the impact is physical or mental.

AM I ADDICTED TO SOCIAL MEDIA?

Studies show that, yes, I probably am!

"You might not be 100% addicted (yet!), but you definitely need to evaluate how much time you're spending scrolling on your social media accounts. It may not be making you happy. One study by Facebook of teen Instagram users in the US and UK found more than 40% of those who reported feeling “unattractive” said the feelings started when using Instagram. It's a good time to start thinking about decluttering your digital life through a social media and digital detox!"

The quiz gives a lot to think about- there have been many studies showing that excessive social media use can make you feel worse about yourself, though I haven't noticed this effect at this point in my life.

For the most part, I use social media to keep up with old friends, find interesting art and inspiration, and keep an eye out for new music and upcoming concerts. This way, I don't usually feel worse about myself after being online.

SOCIAL MEDIA STATISTICS

I found this to be the most interesting statistic provided by the Pew Research Center.

Although the data in the chart stopped being collected in 2021, I find that it highlights the accessibility of YouTube as a platform. Across all of the charts, YouTube is by far the most used application from the list across all demographics and age groups. The unique video-sharing and community engaging aspects of YouTube have drawn in audiences from all walks of life.

It is also interesting to note that the use for all social media apps tend to go up at time goes on, despite the emergence of newer apps.

The growing population as well as children getting on the internet at earlier and earlier ages keeps sign-ups high and online communities endlessly growing.

(Auxier, Apr. 7)

THE IMPACT ON SOCIETY

I have personally found the privilege of using social media to be very helpful in my life, and while it is at times intrusive, the ability to keep in touch with friends and connect with others far outweighs the negative impacts on excessive online activity in my life.

My main qualm with social media is the lack of fact-checking and how mis/disinformation spreads so quickly. The influx of propaganda and clickbait has made it difficult to see social media in a positive light in recent years.

In addition to this, a good amount of the internet has been flooded with bots to the point where it's difficult to tell who is real and what you can trust.

Direct Quotes

“They allow for the rampant spread of misinformation.” –Man, 36

“False information is spread at lightning speed – and false information never seems to go away.” –Woman, 71

“Social media is rampant with misinformation both about the coronavirus and political and social issues, and the social media organizations do not do enough to combat this.” –Woman, 26

“Too much misinformation and lies are promoted from unsubstantiated sources that lead people to disregard vetted and expert information.” –Woman, 64

(Auxier, Oct. 15)

LESSONS LEARNED

Throughout this project, I've learned that I use social media entirely too much, and if a change isn't made, it could begin negatively impacting my mental health. Although I haven't noticed anything extremely harmful to my health yet, I can feel the effects of constant stimulation making it harder for me to focus.

SOURCE

Auxier, B. a. (2021, April 7). Social Media Use in 2021. Retrieved from Pew Research Center: https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2021/04/07/social-media-use-in-2021/

Auxier, B. (2020, October 15). 64% of Americans Say Social Media Have a Mostly Negative Effect on the Way Things Are Going in the U.S. Today. Pew Research Center; Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2020/10/15/64-of-americans-say-social-media-have-a-mostly-negative-effect-on-the-way-things-are-going-in-the-u-s-today/

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