In recent years, social media and technology have become hot topics among parents, educators, researchers, special interest groups, and policymakers. While concerns about their impact on youth are valid and crucial to understand, many of which we speak to (1), however, it’s important to acknowledge the positive aspects that are often overshadowed by negative headlines. By promoting a more balanced perspective, we can counter the pervasive negative narrative seen in the media (2)(3). As parents and caregivers, recognizing these benefits will enable us to guide our children in using social media and technology in a safer and more responsible age-appropriate way, helping families make the most of their onlife experiences.
One of the most significant advantages of social media and technology is its ability to connect young people with others who share similar interests, experiences, and challenges. For many youth, especially those who may feel isolated in their immediate surroundings, social media and technology provide a lifeline to a broader community.
Social media and technology platforms allow young people to connect with peers who share similar hobbies, interests, or causes, helping them build a sense of belonging and community, which is crucial during the often turbulent adolescent years. Additionally, for youth facing challenges such as bullying, mental health issues, or identity struggles, online communities can offer much-needed emotional support. Many young people find solace in connecting with others who understand their struggles, and this support can be instrumental in their well-being. (4)
Contrary to the belief that social media and technology are purely for entertainment, it also serves as a valuable educational tool. (5) Many platforms offer access to a wealth of information and resources that can support learning and personal growth.
Social media and technology provide instant access to educational content, ranging from academic subjects to life skills, with platforms like YouTube offering tutorials on everything from coding to cooking, allowing youth to explore new interests and develop new skills. (6) Additionally, many social media and technology platforms encourage creativity and self-expression, enabling young people to showcase their talents through writing, photography, or video production and receive feedback, which can be a great motivator for further development.
Social media and technology can also play a crucial role in raising awareness about social issues and encouraging civic engagement among young people.
Many youth will also use social media and technology to advocate for causes they care about, from climate change to social justice, helping them develop a sense of agency and responsibility as they realize their voice can make a difference – social media and technology have now provided a megaphone so that their voices can be heard more than ever before. Additionally, social media and technology expose young people to current events and global issues, fostering informed citizenship and increasing their awareness of the world around them and the challenges they may face.
Social media and technology can contribute to the development of essential social and emotional skills by helping young people enhance their communication abilities through online conversations, whether they’re debating a topic, collaborating on a project, or chatting with friends, allowing them to learn how to express themselves clearly and effectively. Additionally, exposure to diverse perspectives on social media fosters empathy and understanding, as interactions with people from different backgrounds and cultures help youth develop a broader worldview and a deeper appreciation for diversity.
For older teens, social media and technology can be a powerful tool for career exploration and networking. Platforms like LinkedIn enable them to start building their professional networks early, connecting with professionals in their field of interest, seeking advice, and finding internship or job opportunities. Additionally, social media can serve as a portfolio for showcasing their talents and skills to potential employers or collaborators, whether they are artists, writers, or tech enthusiasts, helping to open doors to career opportunities. (7)
While there are real concerns about the impact of social media and technology on mental health, it’s important to recognize that it can also be a valuable source of support and awareness. Many platforms offer communities and resources dedicated to mental health, where youth can find information, support groups, and even connect with mental health professionals. Moreover, social media and technology have played a significant role in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging young people to discuss these issues more openly, and helping to create a more supportive and understanding environment.
While it’s easy to focus on the negatives, it’s also crucial to acknowledge the many positive aspects of social media and technology. (8) As parents and caregivers, it’s our role to help our children navigate the online world by promoting a “balanced approach”. (9)(10) This means encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunities social media and technology offer, while also teaching them to be mindful of the potential risks.(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)
By understanding and embracing the positive aspects of social media and technology, we can empower our children to use these platforms in ways that enrich their lives, enhance their education, and support their overall well-being. Rather than disparaging social media and technology, let’s guide our youth to use it as a tool for connection, learning, and growth in today’s onlife world, where technology has become ubiquitous in their everyday lives.
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
Facts Not Fear, Facts Not Feelings, Enlighten Not Frighten, Know Technology Not No Technology
References:
1/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/
7/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/most-teens-using-tech-social-media-in-a-positive-way-case-in-point/
11/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/a-transformational-approach-to-parenting-in-todays-onlife-world/
