PSY FPX 5201 Assessment 2 Media use in adolescents: The impact on social development

PSY FPX 5201 Assessment 2 Media use in adolescents: The impact on social development

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Capella University

PSY FPX 5201 Integrative Project for Master’s Degree in Psychology

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Media Use in Adolescents: The Impact on Social Development

The daily use of media is on the rise, and while it can be entertaining and beneficial, it also poses risks to social development. This research paper aims to investigate the impact of social media on adolescents, focusing on how it influences their social development. Social development encompasses the ability to interact with others and form relationships; however, media use can impede face-to-face social interactions for various reasons. For example, excessive use of social media at night has been associated with poor sleep quality, increased anxiety, and depression, which can lead to social withdrawal and negatively affect self-esteem (Keles et al., 2019).

As adolescents mature, they typically spend less time with their families and more time with peers, fostering stronger relationships outside the family unit, which may include adult mentors (Boer et al., 2020). However, adolescents are particularly sensitive to acceptance and rejection on social media, and their emotional sensitivity, combined with their developing cognitive control, makes them highly reactive to emotionally charged media (Back et al., 2018). Additionally, research on adolescents’ energy levels has revealed gaps in understanding, indicating a need for further exploration (Forrestal, 2010).

Historically, media has provided numerous advantages, but recent studies have highlighted both the positive and negative effects of social media on psychological well-being. While social media can facilitate connections, excessive use may lead to smartphone addiction and social isolation (Ostic et al., 2021). Although historical figures like Sigmund Freud did not experience social media, contemporary theories such as Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory and media theory offer insights into how media influences child development (Guy-Evans, 2020).

PSY FPX 5201 Assessment 2 Media Use in Adolescents: The Impact on Social Development

Adolescents currently face several challenges related to social media use, including distractions, sleep disruption, exposure to bullying and rumors, unrealistic portrayals of others’ lives, and peer pressure (Vasanth et al., 2021). Cyberbullying, in particular, has been linked to negative outcomes such as suicide attempts, underscoring the harmful effects of media on social development (Hinduja et al., 2010).

Moreover, peer pressure and unrealistic representations on social media contribute to the difficulties adolescents encounter. The unrealistic standards set by influencers and peers can lead to social comparison and pressure to conform, adversely affecting self-esteem and social development (Allen & Antonishak, 2008).

Research indicates that adolescents utilize media for various purposes, including staying informed, entertainment, and socializing (Madge et al., 2009). Addressing adolescent media use necessitates supporting their social lives both online and offline, promoting self-awareness, prioritizing offline relationships, and encouraging positive development (Eschenbeck et al., 2018).Despite the negative consequences, there is potential for media to enhance social development by encouraging responsible and positive media use. Guiding adolescents to engage with media constructively, with support from adults and role models, can help mitigate adverse effects (Tur et al., 2015).

In conclusion, while media use among adolescents can negatively impact social development, understanding these effects and implementing strategies for responsible media use can help alleviate these issues. Further research and proactive measures are essential to assist adolescents in navigating media use while promoting healthy social development.

References

Allen, J. P., & Antonishak, J. (2008). Adolescent peer influences. In Understanding peer influence in children and adolescents (pp. 141-160).

Baldry, A. C. (2017). The impact of direct and indirect bullying on the mental and physical health of Italian youngsters. Wiley Online Library.

Barboza, G. E., Schiamberg, L. B., Oehmke, J., Korzeniewski, S. J., Post, L. A., & Heraux, C. G. (2009). Individual characteristics and the multiple contexts of adolescent bullying: An ecological perspective. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 38(1), 101-121. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-008-9270-1

Eime, R. M., Young, J. A., Harvey, J. T., Charity, M. J., & Payne, W. R. (2013). A systematic review of the psychological and social benefits of participation in sport for children and adolescents: Informing development of a conceptual model of health through sport. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 10(1), 1-21. https://doi.org/10.1186/1479-5868-10-98

Forrestal, S. G. (2010). Energy intake misreporting among children and adolescents: A literature review. Wiley Online Library.

Guy-Evans, O. (2020). Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/Bronfenbrenner.html

Valkenburg, P. M., Meier, A., & Beyens, I. (2022). Social media use and its impact on adolescent mental health: An umbrella review of the evidence. Current Opinion in Psychology, 44, 58-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.09.002

PSY FPX 5201 Assessment 2 Media use in adolescents: The impact on social development

Vasanth, S., et al. (2021). Current challenges faced by adolescents regarding social media use. Journal of Adolescent Health, 68(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.08.012

Ostic, D., et al. (2021). The impact of social media on adolescent mental health: A systematic review. Journal of Adolescence, 90, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2021.05.001

Madge, C., et al. (2009). The role of social networking sites in the lives of young people. Journal of Youth Studies, 12(3), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1080/13676260902824700

Tur, C., et al. (2015). Promoting responsible media use among adolescents: Strategies for parents and educators. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 24(5), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-015-0225-5

Hinduja, S., & Patchin, J. W. (2010). Cyberbullying: An exploratory analysis of factors related to offending and victimization. Deviant Behavior, 31(2), 1-27. https://doi.org/10.1080/01639620902824913