While technological advancement in the sphere of social media has opened opportunities for global integration, concerns remain regarding the advantages and disadvantages of social media use. On the one hand, there is the argument that social networking allows for increased interactions between friends and family, gives students access to educational support and materials, and can also facilitate the dissemination of information quickly to facilitate social and political change. On the other hand, there is an argument that social networking has resulted in the deterioration of interpersonal communication skills, time wasted on engaging in entertainment, exposure to negative images and dangerous behaviors, and so on.
However, the second argument seems more relevant today as the pandemic has caused the public to rely significantly on social media, making it more addictive. In “The Twisted Truth” video, its makers point to the importance of being cautious of how one uses social media. The programming that social media platforms use entails capturing fragmented attention, causing people to take breaks in their everyday activities to take a look at what is happening online.
The more often one makes such breaks, the further the capacity for long-term concentration deteriorates. This is especially concerning for the younger generations who grow up with social media. Therefore, despite its advantages, social media should be approached with thought and caution. While staying away from it is nearly impossible for some, taking note of one’s social media use behaviors can be of significant benefit when avoiding an unhealthy attachment to it.
- Social Networks’ Advantages and Disadvantages
- Harm From Social Networks and Internet Usage
- Social Networks’ Impact on Relationships
- Impact of Social Networks on Communication
- Social Networks and Support for Human Health
- Excessive Use of Social Networks
- Social Networks Security: Ethical Issues and Practicies