Risk and Protective Factors

Risk Factor: Disruption of Sleep Cycle – Late-night screen use can interfere with sleep patterns and lead to sleep deprivation, affecting overall well-being.

Protective Factor: Setting Screen Time Limits – Use apps or built-in phone features to set daily screen time limits and create phone-free zones, like during meals or before bed.

Risk Factor: Unrealistic Beauty Standards – Constant exposure to curated or edited images can lead to distorted views of beauty and self-worth.

Protective Factor: Diversifying Content – Follow accounts that promote authenticity, self-love, and a variety of body types, backgrounds, and experiences to build a more balanced perspective.

Risk Factor: Decreased Productivity – Spending too much time on social media can lead to procrastination and reduced focus on important tasks, affecting academic or professional success.

Protective Factor: Time Management Techniques – Use tools like the Pomodoro technique, reminders, or apps that block distracting apps to help manage time effectively.

Risk Factor:  Identity Theft – Sharing too much personal information online increases the likelihood of identity theft, scams, or data breaches.

Protective Factor: Adjusting Privacy Settings – Make use of privacy controls to limit who can view your posts, and avoid sharing sensitive personal information (e.g., location, full name, financial details).

Risk Factor: Online Harassment – Persistent negative comments, trolls, or harmful content can damage one's mental health, leading to anxiety or depression.

Protective Factor: Blocking/Reporting Tools – Utilizing platform features to block, report, or mute harmful interactions can create a safer and more supportive online space.