In today’s world, ninety percent of teenagers utilize some type of social media daily. Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube are the most popular among twelve to eighteen-year-olds in the US. Even though these apps can be used in some negative ways, it’s good to remember that people can also use social media to spread positivity and help others, as well as interact with friends and communities. Social media can have many positive impacts on teenagers’ lives.

Through social media people can rally for positive causes and support each other. Additionally, social media can assist teens in connecting with others and strengthening relationships. Teenagers view social media as a source of confidence and a way to build bonds, not some evil entity out to destroy their esteem. Teenagers are who we should be looking to, as they are the most affected by this argument. Some people say that social media can cause a negative lifestyle, forcing people to be perfect all the time; however, it’s incredibly easy to private your social media if you want, and not all social media are focused on selfies and looks. People too often group all social media into one category – there are tons of social media accounts on plants, animals, photography, art, and more. Thus, social media can reinforce people’s friendships and connections.

Despite what many think, social media is not the terrifying online crevasse that news headlines insist on propagandizing. Social media is a way to strengthen and build relationships and gather to support others. People must understand that these platforms aren’t all negative and that it isn’t all cyber bullying, spam, and hate. That’s just what people see on the news. Realizing the positives will help us come to a better understanding of social media, and allow us to navigate it safely.