argumentative essay about social media being harmful

📕 Studying HQ

Comprehensive argumentative essay example on social media, rachel r.n..

• February 22, 2024

What You'll Learn

The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media: A Comprehensive Analysis

In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become an integral part of our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we communicate, share information, and interact with one another. With the advent of platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, the world has witnessed unprecedented connectivity and accessibility to vast amounts of information. While proponents argue that social media fosters communication, facilitates networking, and empowers individuals, detractors raise concerns about its detrimental effects on mental health, privacy, and societal well-being. This essay aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the dual nature of social media, exploring both its positive and negative impacts on individuals and society.(Comprehensive Argumentative Essay Example on Social Media)

Firstly, social media platforms serve as powerful tools for communication and networking , allowing individuals to connect with friends, family, and like-minded individuals across geographical boundaries. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter enable users to share updates, photos, and messages in real-time, fostering meaningful relationships and maintaining connections. Moreover, social media facilitates information dissemination, serving as a catalyst for social movements, political activism, and grassroots initiatives. The Arab Spring and the #BlackLivesMatter movement are prime examples of how social media has been instrumental in mobilizing communities and effecting social change.(Comprehensive Argumentative Essay Example on Social Media)

Secondly, social media platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for self-expression and creativity. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube provide individuals with a platform to showcase their talents, share their passions, and express themselves authentically. From photography and videography to music and art, social media empowers individuals to cultivate personal brands and reach a global audience. Influencers and content creators have leveraged social media to build lucrative careers and influence popular culture, democratizing fame and success in the digital age.(Comprehensive Argumentative Essay Example on Social Media)

However, despite its many benefits, social media also has significant drawbacks that cannot be overlooked. One of the most pressing concerns is its impact on mental health and well-being. Studies have shown a correlation between excessive social media use and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The constant comparison to curated and idealized versions of others’ lives can lead to feelings of inadequacy and FOMO (fear of missing out), exacerbating existing insecurities and negative self-perceptions. Moreover, the addictive nature of social media, characterized by endless scrolling and dopamine-driven feedback loops, can disrupt sleep patterns, impair cognitive function, and detract from real-world interactions.(Comprehensive Argumentative Essay Example on Social Media)

Furthermore, social media platforms have raised significant privacy and security concerns, as users’ personal data and online activities are often harvested, analyzed, and monetized without their consent. The Cambridge Analytica scandal, in which the personal information of millions of Facebook users was improperly obtained and used for political advertising purposes, highlighted the inherent risks of entrusting sensitive information to social media companies. Moreover, the proliferation of fake news, misinformation, and online harassment on platforms like Twitter and YouTube has undermined trust in traditional media sources and fueled polarization and division within society.(Comprehensive Argumentative Essay Example on Social Media)

In conclusion, social media is a double-edged sword that presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals and society at large. While it has revolutionized communication, empowered individuals, and facilitated social movements, it has also contributed to mental health issues, privacy breaches, and societal polarization. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, it is imperative to strike a balance between harnessing the potential of social media for positive change while mitigating its negative impacts through responsible usage, digital literacy, and regulatory measures. Ultimately, the future of social media lies in our collective ability to harness its power for the greater good while safeguarding against its inherent risks and pitfalls.(Comprehensive Argumentative Essay Example on Social Media)

Kent, M. L., & Li, C. (2020). Toward a normative social media theory for public relations. Public Relations Review, 46(1), 101857. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0363811118303527

Hall, J. A., & Liu, D. (2022). Social media use, social displacement, and well-being.  Current Opinion in Psychology ,  46 , 101339. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352250X22000513

Start by filling this short order form order.studyinghq.com

And then follow the progressive flow. 

Having an issue, chat with us here

Cathy, CS. 

New Concept ? Let a subject expert write your paper for You​

Have a subject expert write for you now, have a subject expert finish your paper for you, edit my paper for me, have an expert write your dissertation's chapter, popular topics.

Business StudyingHq Essay Topics and Ideas How to Guides Samples

• Nursing Solutions
• Study Guides
• Free College Essay Examples
• Privacy Policy
• Writing Service 
• Discounts / Offers 

Study Hub: 

• Studying Blog
• Topic Ideas 
• How to Guides
• Business Studying 
• Nursing Studying 
• Literature and English Studying

Writing Tools  

• Citation Generator
• Topic Generator
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Conclusion Maker
• Research Title Generator
• Thesis Statement Generator
• Summarizing Tool
• Terms and Conditions
• Confidentiality Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Refund and Revision Policy

Our samples and other types of content are meant for research and reference purposes only. We are strongly against plagiarism and academic dishonesty. 

Contact Us:

📧 [email protected]

📞 +15512677917

2012-2024 © studyinghq.com. All rights reserved

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Sociology of Media and Communication — Social Media

Argumentative Essays About Social Media

This is a comprehensive resource to help you find the perfect social media essay topic. Whether you're navigating the complexities of digital communication, exploring the impact of social media on society, or examining its effects on personal identity, the right topic can transform your essay into a captivating and insightful exploration. Remember, selecting a topic that resonates with your personal interests and academic goals not only makes the writing process more enjoyable but also enriches your learning experience. Let's dive into a world of creativity and critical thinking!

Essay Types and Topics

Below, you'll find a curated list of essay topics organized by type. Each section includes diverse topics that touch on technology, society, personal growth, and academic interests, along with introduction and conclusion paragraph examples to get you started.

Argumentative Essays

Introduction Example: "In the digital age, social media platforms have become central to our daily interactions and self-perception, particularly among teenagers. This essay explores the impact of social media on teen self-esteem, arguing that while it offers a space for expression and connection, it also presents significant challenges to self-image. "

Conclusion Example: "Having delved into the complex relationship between social media and teen self-esteem, it is clear that the digital landscape holds profound effects on individual self-perception. This essay reaffirms the thesis that social media can both uplift and undermine teen self-esteem, calling for a balanced approach to digital engagement."

Introduction Example: "As political landscapes evolve, social media has emerged as a powerful tool for political mobilization and engagement. This essay investigates the role of social media in shaping political movements, positing that it significantly enhances communication and organizational capabilities, yet raises questions about information authenticity. "

Conclusion Example: "Through examining the dual facets of social media in political mobilization, the essay concludes that while social media is a pivotal tool for engagement, it necessitates critical scrutiny of information to ensure a well-informed public discourse."

Compare and Contrast Essays

Introduction Example: "In the competitive realm of digital marketing, Instagram and Twitter stand out as leading platforms for brand promotion. This essay compares and contrasts their effectiveness, revealing that each platform caters to unique marketing strengths due to its specific user engagement and content dissemination strategies. "

Conclusion Example: "The comparative analysis of Instagram and Twitter highlights distinct advantages for brands, with Instagram excelling in visual storytelling and Twitter in real-time engagement, underscoring the importance of strategic platform selection in digital marketing."

Descriptive Essays

Introduction Example: "Today's social media landscape is a vibrant tapestry of platforms, each contributing to the digital era's social fabric. This essay describes the characteristics and cultural significance of current social media trends, illustrating that they reflect and shape our societal values and interactions. "

Conclusion Example: "In portraying the dynamic and diverse nature of today's social media landscape, this essay underscores its role in molding contemporary cultural and social paradigms, inviting readers to reflect on their digital footprints."

Persuasive Essays

Introduction Example: "In an era where digital presence is ubiquitous, fostering positive social media habits is essential for mental and emotional well-being. This essay advocates for mindful social media use, arguing that intentional engagement can enhance our life experiences rather than detract from them. "

Conclusion Example: "This essay has championed the cause for positive social media habits, reinforcing the thesis that through mindful engagement, individuals can navigate the digital world in a way that promotes personal growth and well-being."

Narrative Essays

Introduction Example: "Embarking on a personal journey with social media has been both enlightening and challenging. This narrative essay delves into my experiences, highlighting how social media has influenced my perception of self and community. "

Conclusion Example: "Reflecting on my social media journey, this essay concludes that while it has significantly shaped my interactions and self-view, it has also offered invaluable lessons on connectivity and self-awareness, affirming the nuanced role of digital platforms in our lives."

Engagement and Creativity

As you explore these topics, remember to approach your essay with an open mind and creative spirit. The purpose of academic writing is not just to inform but to engage and provoke thought. Use this opportunity to delve deep into your topic, analyze different perspectives, and articulate your own insights.

Educational Value

Each essay type offers unique learning outcomes. Argumentative essays enhance your analytical thinking and ability to construct well-founded arguments. Compare and contrast essays develop your skills in identifying similarities and differences. Descriptive essays improve your ability to paint vivid pictures through words, while persuasive essays refine your ability to influence and convince. Finally, narrative essays offer a platform for personal expression and storytelling. Embrace these opportunities to grow academically and personally.

Some Easy Argumentative Essay Topics on Social Media

• The Impact of Social Media: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Is Social Media Enhancing or Eroding Our Real-Life Social Skills?
• Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Social Media Content to Protect Youth?
• Social Media's Role in Relationships: Communication Enhancer or Barrier
• Does Social Media Contribute to Political Polarization?
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Perceptions of Divorce
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Benefit or Harm?
• Can Social Media Be Considered a Reliable Source of News and Information?
• Is Social Media Responsible for the Rise in Cyberbullying?
• Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• Does Social Media Promote Narcissism and Self-Centered Behaviors?
• The Role of Social Media in Business Marketing: Is It Indispensable?

The Impact of Social Media: Causes and Effects

Facebook sonnet by sherman alexie: summary, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Social Media Engagement on Brand Loyalty in Millennials

Social media is beneficial to the mankind, the detrimental effects of social media on the young generation, the effect of social media challenges on current generation, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Pros and Cons of Social Media: Social Networking

Positive and negative effects of social media, sleeping habits and social media usage, negative effect of social media on young people, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

Social Media Cons and Prons: Evaluating Its Advantages and Disadvantage

The importance of staying safe on social media, impact of social media on our lives, social media: negative effects and addiction, discussion on whether is social media beneficial or harmful for society, negative effects of social media: relationships and communication, social media pros and cons, social media - good and bad sides, a study of the role of social media concerning confidentiality of personal data, how social media causes stereotyping, social media addiction: consequences and strategies for recovery, the role of social media in making us more narcissistic, the effect social media is having on today's society and political atmosphere, digital/social media, censorship in social media, why teenagers are addicted to social media and how it affects them, advantages and disadvantages of social media for society, enormous impact of mass media on children, the role of social media in the current business world, social media is the reason for many of the world’s problems and solutions.

Social media refers to dynamic online platforms that enable individuals to actively engage in the generation and dissemination of various forms of content, including information, ideas, and personal interests. These interactive digital channels foster virtual communities and networks, allowing users to connect, communicate, and express themselves. By harnessing the power of technology, social media platforms provide a space for individuals to share and exchange content, fostering connections and facilitating the flow of information in an increasingly digital world.

In a peculiar manner, the inception of social media can be traced back to May 24, 1844, when a sequence of electronic dots and dashes was manually tapped on a telegraph machine. Although the origins of digital communication have deep historical roots, most contemporary narratives regarding the modern beginnings of the internet and social media often point to the emergence of the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) in 1969. The year 1987 witnessed the establishment of the direct precursor to today's internet, as the National Science Foundation introduced the more robust and expansive NSFNET, a nationwide digital network. A significant milestone occurred in 1997 when Six Degrees, the first genuine social media platform, was launched.

Mark Zuckerberg is a notable figure in the realm of social media as the co-founder and CEO of Facebook. Zuckerberg played a pivotal role in transforming Facebook from a small networking platform for college students into a global social media giant with billions of users. His innovative ideas and strategic decisions have reshaped the way people connect and share information online, making him one of the most influential individuals in the digital age. Jack Dorsey is recognized as one of the key pioneers of social media, notably for co-founding Twitter. Dorsey's creation revolutionized online communication by introducing the concept of microblogging, allowing users to share short messages in real-time. Twitter quickly gained popularity, becoming a powerful platform for news dissemination, public conversations, and social movements. Dorsey's entrepreneurial spirit and vision have contributed significantly to the evolution of social media and its impact on society. Sheryl Sandberg is a prominent figure in the social media landscape, known for her influential role as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Facebook.Sandberg played a crucial part in scaling and monetizing Facebook's operations, transforming it into a global advertising powerhouse. She is also recognized for her advocacy of women's empowerment and leadership in the tech industry, inspiring countless individuals and promoting diversity and inclusion within the social media sphere. Sandberg's contributions have left an indelible mark on the growth and development of social media platforms worldwide.

Social Networking Sites: Facebook, LinkedIn, and MySpace. Microblogging Platforms: Twitter. Media Sharing Networks: Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. Discussion Forums and Community-Based Platforms: Reddit and Quora. Blogging Platforms: WordPress and Blogger. Social Bookmarking and Content Curation Platforms: Pinterest and Flipboard. Messaging Apps: WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and WeChat.

Facebook (2004), Reddit (2005), Twitter (2006), Instagram (2010), Pinterest (2010), Snapchat (2011), TikTok (2016)

1. Increased Connectivity 2. Information Sharing and Awareness 3. Networking and Professional Opportunities 4. Creativity and Self-Expression 5. Supportive Communities and Causes

1. Privacy Concerns 2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment 3. Information Overload and Misinformation 4. Time and Productivity Drain 5. Comparison and Self-Esteem Issues

The topic of social media holds significant importance for students as it plays a prominent role in their lives, both academically and socially. Social media platforms provide students with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge with peers, expanding their learning networks beyond the confines of the classroom. It facilitates communication and access to educational resources, allowing students to stay updated on academic trends and research. Additionally, social media enhances digital literacy and prepares students for the realities of the digital age. However, it is crucial for students to develop critical thinking skills to navigate the potential pitfalls of social media, such as misinformation and online safety, ensuring a responsible and balanced use of these platforms.

The topic of social media is worthy of being explored in an essay due to its profound impact on various aspects of society. Writing an essay on social media allows for an in-depth examination of its influence on communication, relationships, information sharing, and societal dynamics. It offers an opportunity to analyze the advantages and disadvantages, exploring topics such as privacy, online identities, social activism, and the role of social media in shaping cultural norms. Additionally, studying social media enables a critical evaluation of its effects on mental health, politics, and business. By delving into this subject, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex and ever-evolving digital landscape we inhabit.

1. Social media users spend an average of 2 hours and 25 minutes per day on social networking platforms. This amounts to over 7 years of an individual's lifetime spent on social media, highlighting its significant presence in our daily lives. 2. Instagram has over 1 billion monthly active users, with more than 500 million of them using the platform on a daily basis. 3. YouTube has over 2 billion logged-in monthly active users. On average, users spend over 1 billion hours watching YouTube videos every day, emphasizing the platform's extensive reach and the power of video content. 4. Social media has become a major news source, with 48% of people getting their news from social media platforms. This shift in news consumption highlights the role of social media in shaping public opinion and disseminating information in real-time. 5. Influencer marketing has grown exponentially, with 63% of marketers planning to increase their influencer marketing budget in the coming year. This showcases the effectiveness of influencers in reaching and engaging with target audiences, and the value brands place on leveraging social media personalities to promote their products or services.

1. Schober, M. F., Pasek, J., Guggenheim, L., Lampe, C., & Conrad, F. G. (2016). Social media analyses for social measurement. Public opinion quarterly, 80(1), 180-211. (https://academic.oup.com/poq/article-abstract/80/1/180/2593846) 2. Appel, G., Grewal, L., Hadi, R., & Stephen, A. T. (2020). The future of social media in marketing. Journal of the Academy of Marketing science, 48(1), 79-95. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11747-019-00695-1?error=cookies_not_support) 3. Aichner, T., Grünfelder, M., Maurer, O., & Jegeni, D. (2021). Twenty-five years of social media: a review of social media applications and definitions from 1994 to 2019. Cyberpsychology, behavior, and social networking, 24(4), 215-222. (https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/cyber.2020.0134) 4. Ruths, D., & Pfeffer, J. (2014). Social media for large studies of behavior. Science, 346(6213), 1063-1064. (https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/science.346.6213.1063) 5. Hou, Y., Xiong, D., Jiang, T., Song, L., & Wang, Q. (2019). Social media addiction: Its impact, mediation, and intervention. Cyberpsychology: Journal of psychosocial research on cyberspace, 13(1). (https://cyberpsychology.eu/article/view/11562) 6. Auxier, B., & Anderson, M. (2021). Social media use in 2021. Pew Research Center, 1, 1-4. (https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2021/04/PI_2021.04.07_Social-Media-Use_FINAL.pdf) 7. Al-Samarraie, H., Bello, K. A., Alzahrani, A. I., Smith, A. P., & Emele, C. (2021). Young users' social media addiction: causes, consequences and preventions. Information Technology & People, 35(7), 2314-2343. (https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ITP-11-2020-0753/full/html) 8. Bhargava, V. R., & Velasquez, M. (2021). Ethics of the attention economy: The problem of social media addiction. Business Ethics Quarterly, 31(3), 321-359. (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/business-ethics-quarterly/article/ethics-of-the-attention-economy-the-problem-of-social-mediaaddiction/1CC67609A12E9A912BB8A291FDFFE799)

Relevant topics

• Effects of Social Media
• Media Analysis
• Discourse Community
• Sex, Gender and Sexuality
• Cultural Appropriation
• Social Justice
• Sociological Imagination
• American Identity

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

• Social Issues

Argumentative Essay on Social Media

Today our world is full of a whole lot of opinionated people. Everyone loves to share what they think about almost any topic. Whether the topic is very important or completely irrelevant. Although everyone has opinions on things that are somewhat unimportant, some topics are worth discussing our opinions on. One of which that most definitely has some of the most diverse opinions on is social media. Many people think that social media is distracting, negative, and harmful, while others think it is one of the best things that has ever happened and are addicted to it. Some people love to scroll through Instagram or talk to people on Snapchat; However, they still think that the majority of the time social media is much more harmful than helpful. While Social media can provide a place to catch up with friends and things going on in the world, it also has the ability to completely tear lives apart and in some cases lead to depression or anxiety. People with social media should limit their time on these apps or even in some cases, delete the apps altogether due to the negative effects and all of the drama. 

How It Really Is

In contrast to what some people think, Social media is far more harmful than helpful. There are numerous reasons as to why social media is harmful, to start with, there is entirely too much drama and false information that spreads quickly all over social media apps. As a result of this, a whole lot of people are substantially more unhappy with themselves and with their lives. In some cases, social media is even likely to encourage people to do things they should not do and will regret later on in their lives. 

One example of this could be whenever somebody is bullying someone through Instagram and the pressure of being like everyone else could possibly make someone go along with it just because everyone else is doing it. Although a great deal of people claim they would never bully anyone, it is surprising how quickly social media can change a person and cause them to do things they wouldn’t expect to ever do. In the article “Social media websites can harm and help kids” by Nanci Hellmich, she states that “Facebook and other social media websites can enrich children’s lives, but they could also be hazardous to their mental and physical health” (Hellmich). 

This statement is completely agreeable because at first social media can be fun, but eventually it can become addictive and affect people negatively without them even realizing it. In quite a few instances, social media gets so awful to the point where people should delete it, however, it can be remarkably addicting, so people want to stay on it just to continue to see the drama and negative things happening instead of simply deleting the apps.

Not only does social media cause unhappiness and even depression in some cases, it can also be extremely distracting. For many people, social media is the most distracting out of everything in their lives. Not only does it prevent several important things, like doing chores or homework, it can even prevent spending time with friends and family, or even getting enough sleep at night. To start out, being on social media is mostly fun, however, the more time spent on it the more it gets to the point of taking over a tremendous part of people's lives. One example of this being a distraction is stated in the article “Social Networking: Helpful or Harmful”, “A lot of my friends and I spend a lot of time on Facebook, and it is often a big distraction from our work.” (Winkler), This is one of the various instances of somebody being distracted by and affected negatively by social media apps. This shows that social media being distracting is a problem many people with the apps face. 

Social media is quite a controversial topic in the world today. Some people believe it truly does have a negative impact on the world, while others may argue that social media is very entertaining and allows an opportunity to maintain connections with friends and family. Reports even say these sites and other technology can be useful to kids for staying in touch, socializing, entertainment, and even doing homework and that they can enhance kids’ creativity and help them develop technical skills (Hellmich). Although technology can be useful in some ways like for homework, it is more common that people will become distracted and end up on some other app while trying to do homework, which can lead to too much time spent online can squeeze out other important activities (Hellmich).

In conclusion, people with social media who believe that it is good for them should look around and see all of the various other ways it negatively affects others. Maybe if people who think social media is good and are not addicted to it start to encourage others to limit their time on the apps, our world today could become somewhat better with the relief of a little less negative effects caused by social media. With social media being as big of a deal as it is in our society, it is obvious that it is in all probability not going to come to an end. Although this will not happen, our society can prevent things like bullying and drama caused by social media by limiting our time on apps such as Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter. 

Works cited

Hellmich, Nanci. “Social Media Websites Can Help and Harm Kids.” USA Today 

28 March 2011, pg. 1.

Winkler, Travis. “Social Networking: Helpful or Harmful.” The Daily 

Pennsylvania, 17 March 2009, pg. 2.

Related Samples

• Food Safety in The United States (Free Essay Sample)
• Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Essay Example
• Minorities In The Great Gatsby Essay Example
• What Is the American Dream Essay Example
• Sexual Assault Essay Example
• Cyber Crime Essay Example
• Every Child Should Have a Mobile Phone Essay Example
• Kids and Negative Effects of Social Media Essay Example
• The Border Wall Essay Example
• Repercussions of Violence Essay Example

Didn't find the perfect sample?

You can order a custom paper by our expert writers

• Essay Editor

Argumentative Essay on Social Media

Introduction

In the modern era, the surge of social networks is virtually irresistible, enveloping society in a cocoon of interconnected digital networks. An argumentative essay about social media often dives into this complex web, exploring the multifaceted issues interwoven with online platforms. This essay will navigate through the controversial sea of social media, underscoring its positive and negative impacts on society.

Formulating the Problem

Social media, as an accessible platform for individuals of various ages and backgrounds, brings about not just advantages like global connectivity and information dissemination, but also palpable challenges such as privacy invasion, cyberbullying, and misinformation spread. The core issue here is discerning whether the benefits of social media outweigh its drawbacks, essentially necessitating an exploration of various social media argumentative essay examples to delineate comprehensive insights.

Commentary on the Problem

The extensive reach and influence of social media indisputably carve both constructive and destructive pathways in society. Examples of the latter include the rampant dissemination of fake news, fostering polarization, and impairing interpersonal relationships with the illusion of connectedness, all of which feed into the intricacies of an argumentative essay on social media . Conversely, the positive aspects, like enhanced communication, awareness, and a platform for social change, cannot be discounted.

Author’s Position

This essay posits that while social media harbours potential for immense societal benefit, its perils, if left unchecked and unregulated, could overshadow its positives. Consequently, an argumentative stance herein insists on meticulous regulatory frameworks and educational initiatives to safeguard users while maximizing the platform's advantageous elements.

Agreement/Disagreement and Argumentation

• Promotion of Information and Awareness: Social media notably excels in swiftly disseminating information on a global scale, enabling users to remain abreast of worldwide occurrences and innovations.

Disagreement:

• Psychological Impact: Various social media argumentative essay sources highlight its psychological impacts, including anxiety and depression, attributed to online harassment and the perpetuation of unrealistic standards.
• Misinformation: Argument essay about social media often spotlight the proliferation of misinformation as a pressing concern. False data and fake news can propagate rapidly, fueling discord, panic, and uninformed decision-making among users.
• Privacy Concerns: Social media argument essay narratives frequently underline the incessant erosion of user privacy, with personal data often being misused for profit or manipulative endeavors.

Social media stands at a juxtaposition of being a boon and a bane, intricately entwining diverse global narratives, making the topic a compelling subject for an argumentative essay social media . Despite the numerous advantages it presents, the detriments of social media cannot be understated or ignored. Striking a balance through regulatory frameworks, digital literacy, and ethical usage is imperative to harness its potential effectively while mitigating associated risks.

1. Ice Bucket Challenge: A Beacon of Positive Potential

In 2014, the Ice Bucket Challenge became an exemplar of how social media can serve as a vessel for widespread positivity, charitable action, and education on global health issues. By challenging individuals to pour a bucket of iced water over themselves and subsequently nominate others to do the same or donate to ALS research, it ingeniously melded entertainment, camaraderie, and philanthropy. With celebrities and common folk alike participating, the challenge not only raised an astonishing $115 million for ALS research in the United States but also significantly enhanced global awareness regarding the disease. Here, social media manifested as a formidable force for good, underlining its potential to elevate charitable causes and promote global solidarity.

2. Pizzagate Conspiracy Theory: Navigating through the Abyss of Misinformation

Conversely, the Pizzagate Conspiracy Theory provides a grim glimpse into the detrimental potentials of social media when pervaded by misinformation. Emerging during the 2016 United States presidential election, the theory falsely claimed that a Washington D.C. pizzeria was the nexus of a child-trafficking ring, allegedly linked to high-profile politicians. Propagated through social media channels, it not only sowed seeds of distrust towards democratic institutions and individuals but also resulted in a perilous real-world incident, wherein an armed individual sought to 'investigate' the matter, endangering lives. This highlights an exigent need to combat the unchecked dissemination of misinformation and the pivotal role of regulatory and educative interventions in mitigating such instances.

3. Rise of Influencer Culture: Redefining Marketing and Consumer Behavior

The ascension of influencer culture exemplifies another intriguing dimension of social media. With platforms such as Instagram and TikTok spearheading a new age of marketing, influencers have become pivotal in shaping consumer behavior, lifestyle choices, and brand preferences among followers. While this has democratized fame and offered new avenues for business and individuals to prosper, it also beckons a scrutiny of ethical marketing, the impact of materialistic pursuits, and the psychological implications among followers, especially younger audiences, ensuing from continuous exposure to curated and often, unrealistic portrayals of life and success.

In threading through the variegated aspects of social media, this essay endeavours to prompt reflection, advocating for a nuanced approach to its utilization and regulation. This not only ensures its optimal use but also safeguards the mental and societal health of its vast user base.

Note: This essay is a general guideline and should be expanded upon for a detailed, comprehensive exploration of the topic. It offers a structured overview and can be enhanced with specific details, data, and further discussions per section.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How can an argumentative essay about social media address the psychological impacts on users?

Answer: An argumentative essay might explore the psychological repercussions by diving into various studies and real-life incidents, illustrating the stark realities and cascading effects of social media on mental health.

• What role does misinformation play in the framework of a social media argumentative essay?

Answer: Misinformation takes a central role in a social media argumentative essay, highlighting how false narratives and deceptive information can distort public opinion, endanger public health, and even compromise the integrity of democracies.

• How does an argumentative essay on social media evaluate the platform’s potential as a tool for social justice and change?

Answer: The essay could dissect several instances, such as social movements and campaigns that have leveraged social media for visibility and mobilization, exploring its viability and limitations as a conduit for social transformation.

• In what way does an argumentative essay social media delve into the aspects of privacy invasion and data misuse?

Answer: The essay might scrutinize numerous instances of data breaches and the exploitation of personal information, weaving a narrative that elucidates the gravity and breadth of privacy issues spawned by social media platforms.

• Can you cite a few social media argumentative essay examples that illuminate both the positive and negative facets of these platforms?

Answer: Certainly, essays might focus on varied instances like the global connectivity during the COVID-19 pandemic, amplifying social causes like Black Lives Matter, or delve into the darker facets like the Cambridge Analytica scandal and widespread cyberbullying, offering a multi-dimensional viewpoint on the spectrum of impacts rendered by social media.

These questions and the entailing discussions are pivotal, embodying the core of numerous debates surrounding social media and its varied implications on contemporary society. They underscore not just its evident advantages but also the covert, often insidious repercussions that necessitate astute scrutiny and deliberation, aspects crucial to any compelling argumentative essay social media.

Related articles

Master the art of paraphrasing with this comprehensive guide.

In academic writing, you often need to process a large number of sources to compile a thorough and credible examination. However, you can’t simply copy and paste all information into your text document. In such instances, paraphrasing becomes essential. In this short article, we’ll define paraphrasing, talk about why it’s important, and provide guidance on how to paraphrase in an essay. What is paraphrasing? Paraphrasing is a technique that involves rewriting the source text in a way that pr ...

How to Write an Essay in APA Format

There are a few styles of organizing and formatting material in an academic essay. To get high grades it is necessary to learn specific characteristics of each one. After reading this article students are certain to figure out how to write in APA format. What is APA format for an essay? It was the American Psychological Association who offered to use the APA style when formatting articles and academic papers. The specialists described all its aspects in a special Publication Manual, printed i ...

APA or MLA: Choosing the Right Citation Style for Your Paper

When it comes to academic writing, properly citing your sources is crucial. It not only helps you avoid plagiarism but also adds credibility to your work by showing that you've done your research. However, with various citation styles out there, it can be tricky to know which one to use. Two of the most common styles are APA (American Psychological Association) and MLA (Modern Language Association). In this article, we'll take a closer look at the APA vs MLA format to help you decide which is ri ...

MLA Format Essays: A Comprehensive Guide

Finishing an essay is one thing, but formatting it is a completely different affair. There are many style guides out there, so it can be hard to understand the differences between them. Today, you will learn about MLA format writing, what it is, when it’s used, and how to write MLA format essays. What is an MLA Style Essay? An MLA format essay is a piece of writing created in accordance with the MLA Style Handbook. This guide was developed by the Modern Language Association, the leading profe ...

What Is Chat GPT?

AI GPT chats have been getting a lot of attention over the last year. Not surprising since this new technology promises to change our future completely. The first and most well-known AI GPT chat software is ChatGPT officially released on November 30, 2022. In this article, we will answer the question “What is Chat GPT?”, explore how it works, and find out where to use the Chat GPT model. Chat GPT: definition As the name implies, ChatGPT is a chatbot that uses generative AI to process input p ...

How To Write Reflection Essays

How often do you contemplate how the tapestry of your experiences shapes your thoughts? A reflection paper lets you explore that. It's like deep diving into your life’s precious moments, examining how stories, books, events, or even lectures have influenced your views. This type of academic essay integrates a personal perspective, allowing you to openly express your opinions. In this guide, we will delve into the specifics of reflective writing, share some tips, and show some self-reflection es ...

How to Write Informative Essays

Informative essays are one of the main types of academic writing students must complete as part of the educational process. While this is a typical assignment in any curriculum, it can be hard to distinguish between different types of essays and how to write them. In this article, we’ll delve into the genre of this essay type, learn the definition of an informative essay, and how to write an informational essay. What is an informative essay? An informative essay is a piece of academic writin ...

Synthesis Essay Examples

A synthesis essay is another piece of academic discourse that students often find difficult to write. This assignment indeed requires a more nuanced approach to writing and performing research. It’s particularly relevant to students taking an AP English Language and Composition exam, so learning how to write a synthesis essay is crucial to getting a high score. This article will explore the definition of a synthesis essay, its functions, and objectives, and provide a tutorial on how to write a ...

Social Media: Beneficial or Harmful? Essay

It is important to note that social media is a core element of the internet, and it reshaped how a modern human perceives information, communicates, socializes, and learns about the outside world. It became a primary lens through which one interacts with others, and thus, it is critical to properly evaluate whether or not such a state of affairs is beneficial or harmful to human wellbeing. The given assessment argues that social media, not the internet, is harmful to society and humanity in general because it reshapes the social fabric, causes loss of reason, logic, attentiveness, and memory, violates individual rights of all people as well as proliferates misinformation, which means that social media’s harms heavily outweigh its benefits.

Firstly, in order to fairly and properly assess the benefits or harms of social media, the latter should be distinguished from the internet. For example, it is stated that “the notion that the Internet is bad for you seems premised on the idea that the Internet is one thing—a monolith” (Goldsmith 597). In other words, the internet is not one thing but rather a collection of vastly different forms of communication, presentation, information exchange, entertainment, interactions, and other functions. Therefore, the internet is a source of many positive aspects of modernity because it not only brings more informational democracy but also prevents restriction and control of the free exchange of knowledge. However, the question is not about the internet as a whole but rather social media. Unlike the internet, which brings a number of benefits, which far outweigh the harms, social media does not bring a similar imbalance in favor of good. Social media was designed to simplify socialization and communication online, but the outcome is unchecked control of the flow of conversation in favor of a specific agenda, profit, and violation of individual rights.

Secondly, not all internet elements utilize artificial intelligence as extensively as social media platforms. The use of AI allows such companies to fine-tune one typology of information consumed, which means that it is social media that makes decisions for its users. While the internet is a library of knowledge, where a person makes a clear choice on what to read, watch, listen to, or interact with, social media uses AI and complex algorithms to influence its user. The underlying business model of all social media platforms is to learn about its user as much as possible and profit from them in a targeted manner. Such a design is not an inherent feature of the internet, which is not constrained to be profitable in this manner since many websites operate through subscriptions, direct sales, or other means. When it comes to such dangers, AI itself can also be a problem. It is stated that “there are indeed concerns about the near-term future of AI —algorithmic traders crashing the economy, or sensitive power grids overreacting to fluctuations and shutting down electricity for large swaths of the population” (Littman 314). In other words, social media’s extensive use of AI in combination with its problematic business model creates a host of issues that are not attributable to the internet.

Thirdly, in addition to social media-specific problems, they are also linked to harms associated with both devices and the internet in general. As stated before, the internet has its harms and benefits, but the latter usually outweighs the former. Similarly, devices come with harms as well as benefits, where the balance is tilted towards the positive aspects. However, not only social media has its inherent design flaws, but it also has problems with devices and the internet in general, which makes their harms far more abundant than benefits. For example, it is stated that “while our phones offer convenience and diversion, they also breed anxiety” (Carr 582). In addition, “as the brain grows dependent on the technology, the research suggests, the intellect weakens,” and “the division of attention impedes reasoning and performance” (Carr 583). Therefore, these device-related problems are multiplied a hundredfold by the fact that social media amplifies distraction and attention division through notifications. Social media is not a highly intellect-strengthening medium either, which further complicates the dependence factor.

Fourthly, social media companies are not properly regulated, and the nature of the business heavily favors oligopoly rather than a proper competitive environment because people want to have a unified platform for communication and audience-building. Therefore, the industry generates highly powerful companies with unchecked capabilities, where the national and even international discourse takes place exclusively on such mediums. For example, one cannot deny the influence of Twitter or Facebook as drivers of political or social discourse. Therefore, there is a conflict of interest among such big tech companies in regards to providing an open and fair platform versus making a profit, and the decision is clearly made in favor of the latter. The very structure of the business model of social media is to influence users to buy the advertisers’ products or services, and thus, it cannot be a just and fair place for discussion on important subjects by definition. Such a state of affairs threatens the fabric of society whether or not these companies intend to do so.

Fifthly, the conflict of interest described in the previous section brings its biggest harm when it comes to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, where private enterprises are not obliged to protect the freedom of speech and expression. Since the national and international discourse and communication are taking the place of social media, where the First Amendment is mandatory to have, these platforms are unable, unwilling, and not obliged to provide it. One can easily observe how such companies can become politically tilted towards one agenda over the other, where accounts of even the most influential individuals can be banned because they violated the terms of service of the company. In other words, a company’s rules override the Constitutional rules. It is important to note that only a better speech can be an answer to a bad speech and not a removal of that voice.

Sixthly, social media platforms are heavily engaged in data collection and privacy violations, which was demonstrated by well-known scandals and criticisms. Once again, the business model of social media companies is structured in such a manner that their primary customers are not users but advertisers. A former group is a form of product or service being sold to advertisers, which means that social media advances surveillance capitalism at its core. In a century where the right to privacy is constantly becoming a problem due to governmental antiterrorism interests, social media further threatens these fundamental rights. The problem is even more dangerous when one considers the ever-increasing cyber threat proliferation, which means a breach of security in a social media company endangers all of its users.

Seventhly, social media does not have a well-structured method of combatting misinformation since its primary incentive is to promote engagement and grab attention. Social media companies are conflicted between ensuring the accuracy of the information on their platform and boosting the interactivity with their users. Such companies want to have interesting pieces of information, which are better provided by misinformation since the truth is always more complex and intricate. Therefore, one can see how social media can become a breeding ground for people with agenda of public deception. In addition, these platforms would not have the capability to ensure the accuracy of information even if they were incentivized somehow. Public panic and political polarization are other phenomena that accompany social networks, and the catalyst for these occurrences is information received both directly by the subject and disseminated using modern social communication technologies.

In conclusion, social media is not the internet, and its harms are far more extensive than the latter because it affects memory, attention, and reason and violates individual rights for privacy, free expression, and fairness in discourse, as well as proliferates misinformation. In addition, social media inherits inherent problems associated with modern devices and the internet in general, which further compounds its harm. Therefore, the effects of social media hurt the social fabric by pretending that it serves its users while its actual customers are advertisers. It also pretends to provide an open and free platform for communication while its very business model implies targeted influence on the user’s preferences. The use of AI also adds to all of the concerns related to artificial intelligence safety.

Works Cited

Carr, Nicholas. “How Smartphones Hijack Our Minds.” They Say/I Say , edited by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein, W.W. Norton & Norton Company, 2021, pp. 582-596.

Goldsmith, Kenneth. “Go Ahead: Waste Time on the Internet.” They Say/I Say , edited by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein, W.W. Norton & Norton Company, 2021, pp. 597-602.

Littman, Michael. “Rise of the Machines” Is Not a Likely Future.” They Say/I Say , edited by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein, W.W. Norton & Norton Company, 2021, pp. 311-314.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2022, July 2). Social Media: Beneficial or Harmful? https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-media-beneficial-or-harmful/

"Social Media: Beneficial or Harmful?" IvyPanda , 2 July 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/social-media-beneficial-or-harmful/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'Social Media: Beneficial or Harmful'. 2 July.

IvyPanda . 2022. "Social Media: Beneficial or Harmful?" July 2, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-media-beneficial-or-harmful/.

1. IvyPanda . "Social Media: Beneficial or Harmful?" July 2, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-media-beneficial-or-harmful/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Social Media: Beneficial or Harmful?" July 2, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/social-media-beneficial-or-harmful/.

• Inoculation Theory, Misinformation, and Fake News
• Navigating AI in Security: Safeguarding Privacy and Society
• The Importance of Trust in AI Adoption
• Online Identity-Creating New Personas and Relations
• Threats to Information Quality and Credibility
• Criteria for Evaluating Aspects of the Website
• IT Network Connectivity
• Interconnection of College Campus Lans to Wan

Find anything you save across the site in your account

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

How Harmful Is Social Media?

By Gideon Lewis-Kraus

In April, the social psychologist Jonathan Haidt published an essay in The Atlantic in which he sought to explain, as the piece’s title had it, “Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid.” Anyone familiar with Haidt’s work in the past half decade could have anticipated his answer: social media. Although Haidt concedes that political polarization and factional enmity long predate the rise of the platforms, and that there are plenty of other factors involved, he believes that the tools of virality—Facebook’s Like and Share buttons, Twitter’s Retweet function—have algorithmically and irrevocably corroded public life. He has determined that a great historical discontinuity can be dated with some precision to the period between 2010 and 2014, when these features became widely available on phones.

“What changed in the 2010s?” Haidt asks, reminding his audience that a former Twitter developer had once compared the Retweet button to the provision of a four-year-old with a loaded weapon. “A mean tweet doesn’t kill anyone; it is an attempt to shame or punish someone publicly while broadcasting one’s own virtue, brilliance, or tribal loyalties. It’s more a dart than a bullet, causing pain but no fatalities. Even so, from 2009 to 2012, Facebook and Twitter passed out roughly a billion dart guns globally. We’ve been shooting one another ever since.” While the right has thrived on conspiracy-mongering and misinformation, the left has turned punitive: “When everyone was issued a dart gun in the early 2010s, many left-leaning institutions began shooting themselves in the brain. And, unfortunately, those were the brains that inform, instruct, and entertain most of the country.” Haidt’s prevailing metaphor of thoroughgoing fragmentation is the story of the Tower of Babel: the rise of social media has “unwittingly dissolved the mortar of trust, belief in institutions, and shared stories that had held a large and diverse secular democracy together.”

These are, needless to say, common concerns. Chief among Haidt’s worries is that use of social media has left us particularly vulnerable to confirmation bias, or the propensity to fix upon evidence that shores up our prior beliefs. Haidt acknowledges that the extant literature on social media’s effects is large and complex, and that there is something in it for everyone. On January 6, 2021, he was on the phone with Chris Bail, a sociologist at Duke and the author of the recent book “ Breaking the Social Media Prism ,” when Bail urged him to turn on the television. Two weeks later, Haidt wrote to Bail, expressing his frustration at the way Facebook officials consistently cited the same handful of studies in their defense. He suggested that the two of them collaborate on a comprehensive literature review that they could share, as a Google Doc, with other researchers. (Haidt had experimented with such a model before.) Bail was cautious. He told me, “What I said to him was, ‘Well, you know, I’m not sure the research is going to bear out your version of the story,’ and he said, ‘Why don’t we see?’ ”

Bail emphasized that he is not a “platform-basher.” He added, “In my book, my main take is, Yes, the platforms play a role, but we are greatly exaggerating what it’s possible for them to do—how much they could change things no matter who’s at the helm at these companies—and we’re profoundly underestimating the human element, the motivation of users.” He found Haidt’s idea of a Google Doc appealing, in the way that it would produce a kind of living document that existed “somewhere between scholarship and public writing.” Haidt was eager for a forum to test his ideas. “I decided that if I was going to be writing about this—what changed in the universe, around 2014, when things got weird on campus and elsewhere—once again, I’d better be confident I’m right,” he said. “I can’t just go off my feelings and my readings of the biased literature. We all suffer from confirmation bias, and the only cure is other people who don’t share your own.”

Haidt and Bail, along with a research assistant, populated the document over the course of several weeks last year, and in November they invited about two dozen scholars to contribute. Haidt told me, of the difficulties of social-scientific methodology, “When you first approach a question, you don’t even know what it is. ‘Is social media destroying democracy, yes or no?’ That’s not a good question. You can’t answer that question. So what can you ask and answer?” As the document took on a life of its own, tractable rubrics emerged—Does social media make people angrier or more affectively polarized? Does it create political echo chambers? Does it increase the probability of violence? Does it enable foreign governments to increase political dysfunction in the United States and other democracies? Haidt continued, “It’s only after you break it up into lots of answerable questions that you see where the complexity lies.”

Haidt came away with the sense, on balance, that social media was in fact pretty bad. He was disappointed, but not surprised, that Facebook’s response to his article relied on the same three studies they’ve been reciting for years. “This is something you see with breakfast cereals,” he said, noting that a cereal company “might say, ‘Did you know we have twenty-five per cent more riboflavin than the leading brand?’ They’ll point to features where the evidence is in their favor, which distracts you from the over-all fact that your cereal tastes worse and is less healthy.”

After Haidt’s piece was published, the Google Doc—“Social Media and Political Dysfunction: A Collaborative Review”—was made available to the public . Comments piled up, and a new section was added, at the end, to include a miscellany of Twitter threads and Substack essays that appeared in response to Haidt’s interpretation of the evidence. Some colleagues and kibbitzers agreed with Haidt. But others, though they might have shared his basic intuition that something in our experience of social media was amiss, drew upon the same data set to reach less definitive conclusions, or even mildly contradictory ones. Even after the initial flurry of responses to Haidt’s article disappeared into social-media memory, the document, insofar as it captured the state of the social-media debate, remained a lively artifact.

Near the end of the collaborative project’s introduction, the authors warn, “We caution readers not to simply add up the number of studies on each side and declare one side the winner.” The document runs to more than a hundred and fifty pages, and for each question there are affirmative and dissenting studies, as well as some that indicate mixed results. According to one paper, “Political expressions on social media and the online forum were found to (a) reinforce the expressers’ partisan thought process and (b) harden their pre-existing political preferences,” but, according to another, which used data collected during the 2016 election, “Over the course of the campaign, we found media use and attitudes remained relatively stable. Our results also showed that Facebook news use was related to modest over-time spiral of depolarization. Furthermore, we found that people who use Facebook for news were more likely to view both pro- and counter-attitudinal news in each wave. Our results indicated that counter-attitudinal exposure increased over time, which resulted in depolarization.” If results like these seem incompatible, a perplexed reader is given recourse to a study that says, “Our findings indicate that political polarization on social media cannot be conceptualized as a unified phenomenon, as there are significant cross-platform differences.”

Interested in echo chambers? “Our results show that the aggregation of users in homophilic clusters dominate online interactions on Facebook and Twitter,” which seems convincing—except that, as another team has it, “We do not find evidence supporting a strong characterization of ‘echo chambers’ in which the majority of people’s sources of news are mutually exclusive and from opposite poles.” By the end of the file, the vaguely patronizing top-line recommendation against simple summation begins to make more sense. A document that originated as a bulwark against confirmation bias could, as it turned out, just as easily function as a kind of generative device to support anybody’s pet conviction. The only sane response, it seemed, was simply to throw one’s hands in the air.

When I spoke to some of the researchers whose work had been included, I found a combination of broad, visceral unease with the current situation—with the banefulness of harassment and trolling; with the opacity of the platforms; with, well, the widespread presentiment that of course social media is in many ways bad—and a contrastive sense that it might not be catastrophically bad in some of the specific ways that many of us have come to take for granted as true. This was not mere contrarianism, and there was no trace of gleeful mythbusting; the issue was important enough to get right. When I told Bail that the upshot seemed to me to be that exactly nothing was unambiguously clear, he suggested that there was at least some firm ground. He sounded a bit less apocalyptic than Haidt.

“A lot of the stories out there are just wrong,” he told me. “The political echo chamber has been massively overstated. Maybe it’s three to five per cent of people who are properly in an echo chamber.” Echo chambers, as hotboxes of confirmation bias, are counterproductive for democracy. But research indicates that most of us are actually exposed to a wider range of views on social media than we are in real life, where our social networks—in the original use of the term—are rarely heterogeneous. (Haidt told me that this was an issue on which the Google Doc changed his mind; he became convinced that echo chambers probably aren’t as widespread a problem as he’d once imagined.) And too much of a focus on our intuitions about social media’s echo-chamber effect could obscure the relevant counterfactual: a conservative might abandon Twitter only to watch more Fox News. “Stepping outside your echo chamber is supposed to make you moderate, but maybe it makes you more extreme,” Bail said. The research is inchoate and ongoing, and it’s difficult to say anything on the topic with absolute certainty. But this was, in part, Bail’s point: we ought to be less sure about the particular impacts of social media.

Bail went on, “The second story is foreign misinformation.” It’s not that misinformation doesn’t exist, or that it hasn’t had indirect effects, especially when it creates perverse incentives for the mainstream media to cover stories circulating online. Haidt also draws convincingly upon the work of Renée DiResta, the research manager at the Stanford Internet Observatory, to sketch out a potential future in which the work of shitposting has been outsourced to artificial intelligence, further polluting the informational environment. But, at least so far, very few Americans seem to suffer from consistent exposure to fake news—“probably less than two per cent of Twitter users, maybe fewer now, and for those who were it didn’t change their opinions,” Bail said. This was probably because the people likeliest to consume such spectacles were the sort of people primed to believe them in the first place. “In fact,” he said, “echo chambers might have done something to quarantine that misinformation.”

The final story that Bail wanted to discuss was the “proverbial rabbit hole, the path to algorithmic radicalization,” by which YouTube might serve a viewer increasingly extreme videos. There is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that this does happen, at least on occasion, and such anecdotes are alarming to hear. But a new working paper led by Brendan Nyhan, a political scientist at Dartmouth, found that almost all extremist content is either consumed by subscribers to the relevant channels—a sign of actual demand rather than manipulation or preference falsification—or encountered via links from external sites. It’s easy to see why we might prefer if this were not the case: algorithmic radicalization is presumably a simpler problem to solve than the fact that there are people who deliberately seek out vile content. “These are the three stories—echo chambers, foreign influence campaigns, and radicalizing recommendation algorithms—but, when you look at the literature, they’ve all been overstated.” He thought that these findings were crucial for us to assimilate, if only to help us understand that our problems may lie beyond technocratic tinkering. He explained, “Part of my interest in getting this research out there is to demonstrate that everybody is waiting for an Elon Musk to ride in and save us with an algorithm”—or, presumably, the reverse—“and it’s just not going to happen.”

When I spoke with Nyhan, he told me much the same thing: “The most credible research is way out of line with the takes.” He noted, of extremist content and misinformation, that reliable research that “measures exposure to these things finds that the people consuming this content are small minorities who have extreme views already.” The problem with the bulk of the earlier research, Nyhan told me, is that it’s almost all correlational. “Many of these studies will find polarization on social media,” he said. “But that might just be the society we live in reflected on social media!” He hastened to add, “Not that this is untroubling, and none of this is to let these companies, which are exercising a lot of power with very little scrutiny, off the hook. But a lot of the criticisms of them are very poorly founded. . . . The expansion of Internet access coincides with fifteen other trends over time, and separating them is very difficult. The lack of good data is a huge problem insofar as it lets people project their own fears into this area.” He told me, “It’s hard to weigh in on the side of ‘We don’t know, the evidence is weak,’ because those points are always going to be drowned out in our discourse. But these arguments are systematically underprovided in the public domain.”

In his Atlantic article, Haidt leans on a working paper by two social scientists, Philipp Lorenz-Spreen and Lisa Oswald, who took on a comprehensive meta-analysis of about five hundred papers and concluded that “the large majority of reported associations between digital media use and trust appear to be detrimental for democracy.” Haidt writes, “The literature is complex—some studies show benefits, particularly in less developed democracies—but the review found that, on balance, social media amplifies political polarization; foments populism, especially right-wing populism; and is associated with the spread of misinformation.” Nyhan was less convinced that the meta-analysis supported such categorical verdicts, especially once you bracketed the kinds of correlational findings that might simply mirror social and political dynamics. He told me, “If you look at their summary of studies that allow for causal inferences—it’s very mixed.”

As for the studies Nyhan considered most methodologically sound, he pointed to a 2020 article called “The Welfare Effects of Social Media,” by Hunt Allcott, Luca Braghieri, Sarah Eichmeyer, and Matthew Gentzkow. For four weeks prior to the 2018 midterm elections, the authors randomly divided a group of volunteers into two cohorts—one that continued to use Facebook as usual, and another that was paid to deactivate their accounts for that period. They found that deactivation “(i) reduced online activity, while increasing offline activities such as watching TV alone and socializing with family and friends; (ii) reduced both factual news knowledge and political polarization; (iii) increased subjective well-being; and (iv) caused a large persistent reduction in post-experiment Facebook use.” But Gentzkow reminded me that his conclusions, including that Facebook may slightly increase polarization, had to be heavily qualified: “From other kinds of evidence, I think there’s reason to think social media is not the main driver of increasing polarization over the long haul in the United States.”

In the book “ Why We’re Polarized ,” for example, Ezra Klein invokes the work of such scholars as Lilliana Mason to argue that the roots of polarization might be found in, among other factors, the political realignment and nationalization that began in the sixties, and were then sacralized, on the right, by the rise of talk radio and cable news. These dynamics have served to flatten our political identities, weakening our ability or inclination to find compromise. Insofar as some forms of social media encourage the hardening of connections between our identities and a narrow set of opinions, we might increasingly self-select into mutually incomprehensible and hostile groups; Haidt plausibly suggests that these processes are accelerated by the coalescence of social-media tribes around figures of fearful online charisma. “Social media might be more of an amplifier of other things going on rather than a major driver independently,” Gentzkow argued. “I think it takes some gymnastics to tell a story where it’s all primarily driven by social media, especially when you’re looking at different countries, and across different groups.”

Another study, led by Nejla Asimovic and Joshua Tucker, replicated Gentzkow’s approach in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and they found almost precisely the opposite results: the people who stayed on Facebook were, by the end of the study, more positively disposed to their historic out-groups. The authors’ interpretation was that ethnic groups have so little contact in Bosnia that, for some people, social media is essentially the only place where they can form positive images of one another. “To have a replication and have the signs flip like that, it’s pretty stunning,” Bail told me. “It’s a different conversation in every part of the world.”

Nyhan argued that, at least in wealthy Western countries, we might be too heavily discounting the degree to which platforms have responded to criticism: “Everyone is still operating under the view that algorithms simply maximize engagement in a short-term way” with minimal attention to potential externalities. “That might’ve been true when Zuckerberg had seven people working for him, but there are a lot of considerations that go into these rankings now.” He added, “There’s some evidence that, with reverse-chronological feeds”—streams of unwashed content, which some critics argue are less manipulative than algorithmic curation—“people get exposed to more low-quality content, so it’s another case where a very simple notion of ‘algorithms are bad’ doesn’t stand up to scrutiny. It doesn’t mean they’re good, it’s just that we don’t know.”

Bail told me that, over all, he was less confident than Haidt that the available evidence lines up clearly against the platforms. “Maybe there’s a slight majority of studies that say that social media is a net negative, at least in the West, and maybe it’s doing some good in the rest of the world.” But, he noted, “Jon will say that science has this expectation of rigor that can’t keep up with the need in the real world—that even if we don’t have the definitive study that creates the historical counterfactual that Facebook is largely responsible for polarization in the U.S., there’s still a lot pointing in that direction, and I think that’s a fair point.” He paused. “It can’t all be randomized control trials.”

Haidt comes across in conversation as searching and sincere, and, during our exchange, he paused several times to suggest that I include a quote from John Stuart Mill on the importance of good-faith debate to moral progress. In that spirit, I asked him what he thought of the argument, elaborated by some of Haidt’s critics, that the problems he described are fundamentally political, social, and economic, and that to blame social media is to search for lost keys under the streetlamp, where the light is better. He agreed that this was the steelman opponent: there were predecessors for cancel culture in de Tocqueville, and anxiety about new media that went back to the time of the printing press. “This is a perfectly reasonable hypothesis, and it’s absolutely up to the prosecution—people like me—to argue that, no, this time it’s different. But it’s a civil case! The evidential standard is not ‘beyond a reasonable doubt,’ as in a criminal case. It’s just a preponderance of the evidence.”

The way scholars weigh the testimony is subject to their disciplinary orientations. Economists and political scientists tend to believe that you can’t even begin to talk about causal dynamics without a randomized controlled trial, whereas sociologists and psychologists are more comfortable drawing inferences on a correlational basis. Haidt believes that conditions are too dire to take the hardheaded, no-reasonable-doubt view. “The preponderance of the evidence is what we use in public health. If there’s an epidemic—when COVID started, suppose all the scientists had said, ‘No, we gotta be so certain before you do anything’? We have to think about what’s actually happening, what’s likeliest to pay off.” He continued, “We have the largest epidemic ever of teen mental health, and there is no other explanation,” he said. “It is a raging public-health epidemic, and the kids themselves say Instagram did it, and we have some evidence, so is it appropriate to say, ‘Nah, you haven’t proven it’?”

This was his attitude across the board. He argued that social media seemed to aggrandize inflammatory posts and to be correlated with a rise in violence; even if only small groups were exposed to fake news, such beliefs might still proliferate in ways that were hard to measure. “In the post-Babel era, what matters is not the average but the dynamics, the contagion, the exponential amplification,” he said. “Small things can grow very quickly, so arguments that Russian disinformation didn’t matter are like COVID arguments that people coming in from China didn’t have contact with a lot of people.” Given the transformative effects of social media, Haidt insisted, it was important to act now, even in the absence of dispositive evidence. “Academic debates play out over decades and are often never resolved, whereas the social-media environment changes year by year,” he said. “We don’t have the luxury of waiting around five or ten years for literature reviews.”

Haidt could be accused of question-begging—of assuming the existence of a crisis that the research might or might not ultimately underwrite. Still, the gap between the two sides in this case might not be quite as wide as Haidt thinks. Skeptics of his strongest claims are not saying that there’s no there there. Just because the average YouTube user is unlikely to be led to Stormfront videos, Nyhan told me, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t worry that some people are watching Stormfront videos; just because echo chambers and foreign misinformation seem to have had effects only at the margins, Gentzkow said, doesn’t mean they’re entirely irrelevant. “There are many questions here where the thing we as researchers are interested in is how social media affects the average person,” Gentzkow told me. “There’s a different set of questions where all you need is a small number of people to change—questions about ethnic violence in Bangladesh or Sri Lanka, people on YouTube mobilized to do mass shootings. Much of the evidence broadly makes me skeptical that the average effects are as big as the public discussion thinks they are, but I also think there are cases where a small number of people with very extreme views are able to find each other and connect and act.” He added, “That’s where many of the things I’d be most concerned about lie.”

The same might be said about any phenomenon where the base rate is very low but the stakes are very high, such as teen suicide. “It’s another case where those rare edge cases in terms of total social harm may be enormous. You don’t need many teen-age kids to decide to kill themselves or have serious mental-health outcomes in order for the social harm to be really big.” He added, “Almost none of this work is able to get at those edge-case effects, and we have to be careful that if we do establish that the average effect of something is zero, or small, that it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be worried about it—because we might be missing those extremes.” Jaime Settle, a scholar of political behavior at the College of William & Mary and the author of the book “ Frenemies: How Social Media Polarizes America ,” noted that Haidt is “farther along the spectrum of what most academics who study this stuff are going to say we have strong evidence for.” But she understood his impulse: “We do have serious problems, and I’m glad Jon wrote the piece, and down the road I wouldn’t be surprised if we got a fuller handle on the role of social media in all of this—there are definitely ways in which social media has changed our politics for the worse.”

It’s tempting to sidestep the question of diagnosis entirely, and to evaluate Haidt’s essay not on the basis of predictive accuracy—whether social media will lead to the destruction of American democracy—but as a set of proposals for what we might do better. If he is wrong, how much damage are his prescriptions likely to do? Haidt, to his great credit, does not indulge in any wishful thinking, and if his diagnosis is largely technological his prescriptions are sociopolitical. Two of his three major suggestions seem useful and have nothing to do with social media: he thinks that we should end closed primaries and that children should be given wide latitude for unsupervised play. His recommendations for social-media reform are, for the most part, uncontroversial: he believes that preteens shouldn’t be on Instagram and that platforms should share their data with outside researchers—proposals that are both likely to be beneficial and not very costly.

It remains possible, however, that the true costs of social-media anxieties are harder to tabulate. Gentzkow told me that, for the period between 2016 and 2020, the direct effects of misinformation were difficult to discern. “But it might have had a much larger effect because we got so worried about it—a broader impact on trust,” he said. “Even if not that many people were exposed, the narrative that the world is full of fake news, and you can’t trust anything, and other people are being misled about it—well, that might have had a bigger impact than the content itself.” Nyhan had a similar reaction. “There are genuine questions that are really important, but there’s a kind of opportunity cost that is missed here. There’s so much focus on sweeping claims that aren’t actionable, or unfounded claims we can contradict with data, that are crowding out the harms we can demonstrate, and the things we can test, that could make social media better.” He added, “We’re years into this, and we’re still having an uninformed conversation about social media. It’s totally wild.”

New Yorker Favorites

The day the dinosaurs died .

What if you started itching— and couldn’t stop ?

How a notorious gangster was exposed by his own sister .

Woodstock was overrated .

Diana Nyad’s hundred-and-eleven-mile swim .

Photo Booth: Deana Lawson’s hyper-staged portraits of Black love .

Fiction by Roald Dahl: “The Landlady”

Sign up for our daily newsletter to receive the best stories from The New Yorker .

By signing up, you agree to our User Agreement and Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

By Gary Shteyngart

By Helen Rosner

By Dexter Filkins

Argumentative Essay About Social Media : Topics, Tips & Examples

Are you struggling to come up with a topic for your argumentative essay about social media?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

With so many different opinions about social media, it can be difficult to know where to start. But fear not!

In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to craft a great topic for your essay, as well as how to start your essay and some examples of argumentative essay topics about social media.

How to choose a topic for your argumentative social media essay

Choosing the right topic is the foundation of a successful argumentative essay . Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect topic for your social media essay:

• Identify the hot-button issues: Look for the topics that are currently generating the most attention and debate on social media. For instance, the issue of online privacy has been a hot-button issue for some time now.
• Analyze current events: Keep an eye on current events and trending topics on social media platforms. For example, the recent controversy surrounding Facebook’s role in the 2016 US Presidential election is an excellent topic to explore.
• Identify your audience: Consider the demographics of your audience, and choose a topic that will resonate with them. For instance, if you are writing for a younger audience, you may want to consider a topic related to the impact of social media on mental health.
• Personal experience: Consider your own experiences with social media and the impact it has had on your life. You may be able to identify a unique perspective that will make for a compelling argumentative essay.

How to craft a title for your argumentative essay about social media

Now that you know what topic you want to write on, let’s talk about how to craft a title that will grab your reader’s attention and accurately reflect your argument. Here are some tips:

• Use descriptive language: Your title should give your reader a good idea of what your essay is about. Use descriptive language that accurately reflects your argument. For example, if you’re writing about the advantages and disadvantages of social media, you might use a title like “Navigating the Pros and Cons of Social Media.”
• Keep it short and sweet: Your title should be concise and easy to remember. Avoid long titles that are difficult to read or remember. A good rule of thumb is to keep your title under 10 words.
• Make it provocative: A provocative title can grab your reader’s attention and make them want to read more. However, be careful not to be too sensationalistic or misleading. Your title should accurately reflect your argument.

Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics about Social Media

• Should social media platforms be held accountable for the spread of misinformation and fake news?
• The Social Dilemma: Navigating the Pros and Cons of Social Media
• Scrolling to Depression: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• Fake News, Real Consequences: Holding Social Media Platforms Accountable
• Swipe Left on Toxic Relationships: The Impact of Social Media on Modern Dating
• The Future of Work in the Social Media Age: Opportunity or Threat?
• Hooked on Social Media: The Addictive Nature of Online Engagement
• Lost in Translation: How Social Media Affects Cross-Cultural Communication
• The Algorithms Behind the Screen: The Need for Transparency on Social Media Platforms
• Democracy in Danger? Examining the Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse
• Growing Up Online: The Impact of Social Media on the Development of Young Minds
• Is social media addiction a real problem, and if so, what steps should be taken to address it?
• Should social media companies be required to collect and store data about their users’ online activities?
• Are social media platforms responsible for the rise of cyberbullying and harassment, and what measures should be taken to prevent it?

How to Start an Argumentative Essay about Social Media

Starting an argumentative essay about social media can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can create a compelling and engaging introduction that hooks your reader’s attention. Here are some tips and examples to help you get started:

• Start with a hook that relates to your argument about social media
• Use a surprising statistic or fact: “Did you know that more than 60% of people have witnessed online harassment on social media platforms?”
• Use a provocative question: “Is social media a tool for positive social change or a threat to democracy?”
• Use a personal anecdote: “When I was in high school, I witnessed firsthand the negative impact of social media on my friend’s mental health.”
• Provide background information
• Define social media: “Social media refers to a variety of online platforms that allow users to share information, connect with others, and engage in social networking.”
• Explain the history of social media: “Social media has its roots in early online communities like Usenet and bulletin board systems, but it wasn’t until the rise of platforms like Facebook and Twitter that it became a mainstream phenomenon.”
• Outline the different types of social media: “There are a variety of social media platforms available, including social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn, microblogging sites like Twitter and Tumblr, and image-sharing sites like Instagram and Snapchat.”
• Present your thesis statement
• Focus on a specific aspect of social media: “While social media can be a useful tool for communication and entertainment, its addictive qualities and pressure to present a perfect image can have detrimental effects on mental health and well-being.”
• Take a stance: “Social media is a net positive for society, providing a platform for marginalized voices to be heard and allowing for greater social connection and community building.”
• Preview your main arguments: “In this essay, I will argue that social media is both a blessing and a curse, providing many benefits while also creating new challenges and problems that need to be addressed.”

How to Write the Body of a Social Media Argumentative Essay

The next section to write after the introduction is the body of your argumentative essay. Here are some tips on how to structure and write the body of your essay:

• Develop your arguments: In the body of your essay, you will need to develop the arguments that support your thesis statement. Each argument should be presented in a separate paragraph, and you should use evidence and examples to support your claims. For example, if you are arguing that social media has a negative impact on mental health, you could provide studies or articles that support your position.
• Address counterarguments: It is important to address counterarguments in your essay. This shows that you have considered different perspectives on the issue and strengthens your overall argument. For example, if you are arguing that social media has a negative impact on mental health, you could address the counterargument that social media can be a source of social support for some individuals.
• Use transitional phrases: Use transitional phrases to move smoothly from one argument to the next. This helps your essay to flow and makes it easier for your reader to follow your argument. Examples of transitional phrases include “in addition,” “moreover,” and “furthermore.”
• Provide a conclusion: Your conclusion should summarize your main arguments and restate your thesis statement. It should also provide some final thoughts or recommendations on the issue. Avoid introducing new information or arguments in your conclusion.

Example of an Argumentative Essay about Social Media

Title: Should social media platforms be held accountable for the spread of misinformation and fake news?

Did you know that your social media feed may be feeding you lies? In recent years, social media platforms have come under fire for their role in spreading fake news and misinformation. As more people turn to social media for their news and information, the potential impact of these falsehoods has become a growing concern. With debates raging about who should be held responsible for this spread of misinformation, this essay will argue that social media platforms must be held accountable for the consequences of the content they allow to spread. Social media has become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives, and with the increasing amount of information shared on these platforms, the potential for the spread of misinformation and fake news has become a significant concern. It is no longer a question of whether social media platforms should be held accountable for the spread of such content, but how they should be held accountable. Firstly, social media platforms must take responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of the content that is published on their platforms. Social media platforms are no longer mere conduits for information; they actively curate the content that is presented to users through algorithms and other tools (Allcott & Gentzkow, 2017). As such, they have the ability and the responsibility to ensure that the content that is presented to users is accurate and truthful. Social media platforms must be held accountable for any content that is found to be false, misleading or harmful to public health, safety, and well-being. Moreover, the impact of social media on public opinion and discourse cannot be understated. Studies have shown that the spread of fake news and misinformation can have a significant impact on public opinion and even influence election outcomes. As such, social media platforms have a responsibility to ensure that they are not facilitating the spread of false information that could influence important decision-making processes. They must ensure that their content policies and moderation practices are stringent enough to prevent the spread of harmful and false information. Some may argue that social media platforms should not be held accountable for the spread of misinformation and fake news as it can be difficult to determine what is true and false. However, this argument overlooks the fact that social media platforms have the resources and tools to combat the spread of false information(Allcott & Gentzkow, 2017). For example, these platforms can employ fact-checking mechanisms and algorithms that can detect false information and flag it for review. According to a study by Haim and Graefe (2018), social media platforms have the capability to implement these measures effectively. While it is true that detecting false information on social media platforms can be challenging, it is not an impossible task. In fact, social media platforms can improve their algorithms to better identify and flag false information. For instance, they can use machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyze patterns of behavior, source credibility, and language used to identify potentially false information. Moreover, social media platforms can collaborate with independent fact-checkers and news organizations to verify the accuracy of information before it is posted on their platforms (European Commission, 2018). By working with reputable sources, social media platforms can reduce the spread of misinformation and promote the sharing of accurate information. In conclusion, social media platforms should be held accountable for the spread of misinformation and fake news. As powerful gatekeepers of information, social media platforms have a responsibility to ensure that the content that is presented to users is accurate and truthful. They also have a legal obligation to remove illegal content, which may include false or misleading information. By taking these steps, social media platforms can help to mitigate the impact of misinformation and fake news on public opinion and discourse. References: Allcott, H., & Gentzkow, M. (2017). Social media and fake news in the 2016 election. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 31(2), 211-236. European Commission. (2018). Code of conduct on countering illegal hate speech online. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/11507-Code-of-conduct-on-countering-illegal-hate-speech-online-/public-feedback Haim, M., & Graefe, A. (2018). In a world of alternative facts, social media algorithms and crowdsourcing can help verify news. The Conversation. Retrieved from https://theconversation.com/in-a-world-of-alternative-facts-social-media-algorithms-and-crowdsourcing-can-help-verify-news-83503

Needs help with similar assignment?

We are available 24x7 to deliver the best services and assignment ready within 3-4 hours? Order a custom-written, plagiarism-free paper

We provide reliable and top-quality writing services with a great balance of affordability and professionalism with all types of academic papers.

Quick Links

• College Admission Essay Writing Services FAQ
• Nursing Case Studies Writing Services
• Buy Custom Research Papers
• Best Nursing Writing Services
• Literary Analysis Essay Writers
• Nursing Paper Writers for Hire
• Professional Paper Writers
• Cheapest Essay Writing Services
• Write My Essay for Me
• The Best Research Paper Writing Services
• Admission Essay Writing Services!
• Shakespeare Essay Writing Services!
• Rewriting Services
• Term Paper Writing Service

Useful Resources

Dissertation Writing Services

Essay Writer For Hire

Free Essay Maker

How to Study

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

student opinion

How Does Social Media Affect Your Mental Health?

Facebook has delayed the development of an Instagram app for children amid questions about its harmful effects on young people’s mental health. Does social media have an impact on your well-being?

By Nicole Daniels

What is your relationship with social media like? Which platforms do you spend the most time on? Which do you stay away from? How often do you log on?

What do you notice about your mental health and well-being when spending time on social networks?

In “ Facebook Delays Instagram App for Users 13 and Younger ,” Adam Satariano and Ryan Mac write about the findings of an internal study conducted by Facebook and what they mean for the Instagram Kids app that the company was developing:

Facebook said on Monday that it had paused development of an Instagram Kids service that would be tailored for children 13 years old or younger, as the social network increasingly faces questions about the app’s effect on young people’s mental health. The pullback preceded a congressional hearing this week about internal research conducted by Facebook , and reported in The Wall Street Journal , that showed the company knew of the harmful mental health effects that Instagram was having on teenage girls. The revelations have set off a public relations crisis for the Silicon Valley company and led to a fresh round of calls for new regulation. Facebook said it still wanted to build an Instagram product intended for children that would have a more “age appropriate experience,” but was postponing the plans in the face of criticism.

The article continues:

With Instagram Kids, Facebook had argued that young people were using the photo-sharing app anyway, despite age-requirement rules, so it would be better to develop a version more suitable for them. Facebook said the “kids” app was intended for ages 10 to 12 and would require parental permission to join, forgo ads and carry more age-appropriate content and features. Parents would be able to control what accounts their child followed. YouTube, which Google owns, has released a children’s version of its app. But since BuzzFeed broke the news this year that Facebook was working on the app, the company has faced scrutiny. Policymakers, regulators, child safety groups and consumer rights groups have argued that it hooks children on the app at a younger age rather than protecting them from problems with the service, including child predatory grooming, bullying and body shaming.

The article goes on to quote Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram:

Mr. Mosseri said on Monday that the “the project leaked way before we knew what it would be” and that the company had “few answers” for the public at the time. Opposition to Facebook’s plans gained momentum this month when The Journal published articles based on leaked internal documents that showed Facebook knew about many of the harms it was causing. Facebook’s internal research showed that Instagram, in particular, had caused teen girls to feel worse about their bodies and led to increased rates of anxiety and depression, even while company executives publicly tried to minimize the app’s downsides.

But concerns about the effect of social media on young people go beyond Instagram Kids, the article notes:

A children’s version of Instagram would not fix more systemic problems, said Al Mik, a spokesman for 5Rights Foundation, a London group focused on digital rights issues for children. The group published a report in July showing that children as young as 13 were targeted within 24 hours of creating an account with harmful content, including material related to eating disorders, extreme diets, sexualized imagery, body shaming, self-harm and suicide. “Big Tobacco understood that the younger you got to someone, the easier you could get them addicted to become a lifelong user,” Doug Peterson, Nebraska’s attorney general, said in an interview. “I see some comparisons to social media platforms.” In May, attorneys general from 44 states and jurisdictions had signed a letter to Facebook’s chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, asking him to end plans for building an Instagram app for children. American policymakers should pass tougher laws to restrict how tech platforms target children, said Josh Golin, executive director of Fairplay, a Boston-based group that was part of an international coalition of children’s and consumer groups opposed to the new app. Last year, Britain adopted an Age Appropriate Design Code , which requires added privacy protections for digital services used by people under the age of 18.

Students, read the entire article , then tell us:

Do you think Facebook made the right decision in halting the development of the Instagram Kids app? Do you think there should be social media apps for children 13 and younger? Why or why not?

What is your reaction to the research that found that Instagram can have harmful mental health effects on teenagers, particularly teenage girls? Have you experienced body image issues, anxiety or depression tied to your use of the app? How do you think social media affects your mental health?

What has your experience been on different social media apps? Are there apps that have a more positive or negative effect on your well-being? What do you think could explain these differences?

Have you ever been targeted with inappropriate or harmful content on Instagram or other social media apps? What responsibility do you think social media companies have to address these issues? Do you think there should be more protections in place for users under 18? Why or why not?

What does healthy social media engagement look like for you? What habits do you have around social media that you feel proud of? What behaviors would you like to change? How involved are your parents in your social media use? How involved do you think they should be?

If you were in charge of making Instagram, or another social media app, safer for teenagers, what changes would you make?

Want more writing prompts? You can find all of our questions in our Student Opinion column . Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate them into your classroom.

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.

Nicole Daniels joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2019 after working in museum education, curriculum writing and bilingual education. More about Nicole Daniels

Argumentative Essay Writing

Argumentative Essay About Social Media

Crafting a Winning Argumentative Essay on Social Media

Published on: Feb 27, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

People also read

Argumentative Essay - A Complete Writing Guide

Learn How to Write an Argumentative Essay Outline

Best Argumentative Essay Examples for Your Help

Basic Types of Argument and How to Use Them?

Take Your Pick – 200+ Argumentative Essay Topics

Essential Tips and Examples for Writing an Engaging Argumentative Essay about Abortion

Craft a Winning Argumentative Essay about Mental Health

Strategies for Writing a Winning Argumentative Essay about Technology

Crafting an Unbeatable Argumentative Essay About Gun Control

Win the Debate - Writing An Effective Argumentative Essay About Sports

Make Your Case: A Guide to Writing an Argumentative Essay on Climate Change

Ready, Set, Argue: Craft a Convincing Argumentative Essay About Wearing Mask

Crafting a Powerful Argumentative Essay about Global Warming: A Step-by-Step Guide

Share this article

If you've ever gotten into an argument about social media, then you already know how important it is to craft a winning argument.

But what if that argument was turned into an essay?

Crafting an effective argumentative essay on social media can be both challenging and rewarding.

We'll show you everything you need to know in order to write a killer paper that takes your arguments straight to the top!

Read on for some tips and tricks on how to make sure your paper stands out among the rest.

On This Page On This Page -->

Argumentative Essay- Explained 

Before writing an argumentative essay about social media, it's important to understand what makes up a good argumentative essay. 

An argumentative essay is an article that presents both sides of an issue or debate in order to reach a conclusion. 

It requires you to provide evidence and facts, present a point of view, and develop an argument.

When writing an argumentative essay on social media, you must present both sides of the issue or debate in a balanced manner. 

You must also be sure to explain why one side has more credibility than the other. 

This means that you’ll need to do your research and make sure that your essay has facts and evidence to back up your claims. 

Why Do We Write an Argumentative Essay About Social Media?

This type of essay can be difficult because it requires you to present both sides of the argument in a balanced and unbiased manner. 

It also requires you to research facts that support either side of the argument and present them in a clear and logical manner.

By writing this essay, you can help readers understand why one point of view is more credible than another. 

This can help them form their own opinions on the issue and become better informed on the topic. 

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Steps to Write an Argumentative Essay About Social Media

Writing an argumentative essay about social media requires research, facts, and evidence. 

Here are a few steps that can help you write a great argumentative essay:

Research To Collect Data and Material 

The first step in writing an argumentative essay about social media is to do research and collect data .

This includes researching various sources such as books, articles, and websites that provide reliable information about the topic. 

Take notes on what you read and highlight any points or quotes that you may want to include in your essay. 

Pick an Engaging Title for an Argumentative Essay About Social Media 

When it comes to writing a great argumentative essay about social media, one of the most important elements is having a great title. 

A good title will draw readers in and encourage them to read your essay.

Make sure the title is catchy yet relevant to the main topic of your paper. 

Form a Descriptive Outline 

Once you have collected enough data and material, it’s time to start forming a descriptive outline of your essay. 

This should include all the points you plan on discussing throughout the body paragraphs. Furthermore, it should include any conclusions that you may want to propose at the end of your paper. 

By having a clear idea of what your paper will cover, it will be much easier to plan out each section before writing it out in full detail.

Check out this amazing blog on argumentative essay outline to craft perfect outlines.

Write an Introduction of an Argumentative Essay About Social Media 

Your introduction should be engaging and introduce readers to the main topic of your paper.

Here, you can also state which side of the argument you are taking (if applicable) so readers know where you stand from the beginning. 

Write Connect The Body Paragraphs Of Your Essay  

In each body paragraph, provide evidence or facts that prove why your opinion is correct.

Each paragraph should introduce a new point or idea related back to your main argument.

Make sure each point flows naturally into one another without jumping around too much from one point/idea to another.  

Write A Compelling Conclusion                  

Finally, write a compelling conclusion that wraps up all points made throughout the body paragraphs.  

Make sure not only summarize what was already said. Also, provide insight into why these topics are still relevant today and how they affect us today going forward!  

Examples of Argumentative Essay About Social Media 

When writing an argumentative essay about social media, it can be helpful to look at examples.

Here is a sample argumentative essay written by our expert writers. Check it out for more inspiration.

By reading these sample essays, you can gain a better understanding of how to write your own essay and what elements are important to include. 

Argumentative Essay About Social Media Pdf

Argumentative Essay About Social Media Addiction

Argumentative Essay About Social Media And Mental Health

Short Argumentative Essay About Social Media

Argumentative Essay About Social Media Advantages And Disadvantages

Argumentative Essay About Social Media Negative Impact

Check our extensive blog on argumentative essay examples to ace your next essay!

Argumentative Essay About Social Media Topics

If you’re looking for topics to write about in your argumentative essay about social media, take a look at the list below for some ideas: 

• The Impact of Social Media on Human Interaction 
• How Can We Limit Social Media Use? 
• Is Social Media Harmful/Beneficial to Mental Health? 
• Social Media and Its Effect on the Education System 
• Is Social Media Really a Positive Influence on Young People? 
• The Impact of Social Media on Privacy 
• How Has Social Media Changed Society in Recent Years? 
• Should We Censor Content Posted on Social Media Platforms like Twitter and Facebook? 
• Does Social Media Make Us Feel More Alone? 
• Are Social Media Users Becoming Increasingly Narcissistic? 
• Should We Rely on Social Media for News Sources? 
• Is Social Media a Tool of Surveillance? 

Check our comprehensive blog on argumentative essay topics to get more topic ideas!

The platform that you use to communicate with others can be a great tool or it can do more harm than good. It all depends on how you use it and what your intentions are. 

You can find social media argumentative essay examples all over the internet, but not every one of them is going to be a winner. 

Struggling with essay deadlines? Our top essay writing service is your solution for high-quality, custom essays. Elevate your grades and streamline your writing process with our expert team.

Ready for a revolutionary approach? Experience efficiency with our AI essay writer , your tool for academic success. Click now and transform your essay writing experience!

Cathy A. (College Admission Essay, Medical school essay)

For more than five years now, Cathy has been one of our most hardworking authors on the platform. With a Masters degree in mass communication, she knows the ins and outs of professional writing. Clients often leave her glowing reviews for being an amazing writer who takes her work very seriously.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Legal & Policies

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Terms of Use
• Refunds & Cancellations
• Our Writers
• Success Stories
• Our Guarantees
• Affiliate Program
• Referral Program
• AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

Subscribe or renew today

Every print subscription comes with full digital access

Science News

Social media harms teens’ mental health, mounting evidence shows. what now.

Understanding what is going on in teens’ minds is necessary for targeted policy suggestions

Most teens use social media, often for hours on end. Some social scientists are confident that such use is harming their mental health. Now they want to pinpoint what explains the link.

Carol Yepes/Getty Images

Share this:

By Sujata Gupta

February 20, 2024 at 7:30 am

In January, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook’s parent company Meta, appeared at a congressional hearing to answer questions about how social media potentially harms children. Zuckerberg opened by saying: “The existing body of scientific work has not shown a causal link between using social media and young people having worse mental health.”

But many social scientists would disagree with that statement. In recent years, studies have started to show a causal link between teen social media use and reduced well-being or mood disorders, chiefly depression and anxiety.

Ironically, one of the most cited studies into this link focused on Facebook.

Researchers delved into whether the platform’s introduction across college campuses in the mid 2000s increased symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. The answer was a clear yes , says MIT economist Alexey Makarin, a coauthor of the study, which appeared in the November 2022 American Economic Review . “There is still a lot to be explored,” Makarin says, but “[to say] there is no causal evidence that social media causes mental health issues, to that I definitely object.”

The concern, and the studies, come from statistics showing that social media use in teens ages 13 to 17 is now almost ubiquitous. Two-thirds of teens report using TikTok, and some 60 percent of teens report using Instagram or Snapchat, a 2022 survey found. (Only 30 percent said they used Facebook.) Another survey showed that girls, on average, allot roughly 3.4 hours per day to TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, compared with roughly 2.1 hours among boys. At the same time, more teens are showing signs of depression than ever, especially girls ( SN: 6/30/23 ).

As more studies show a strong link between these phenomena, some researchers are starting to shift their attention to possible mechanisms. Why does social media use seem to trigger mental health problems? Why are those effects unevenly distributed among different groups, such as girls or young adults? And can the positives of social media be teased out from the negatives to provide more targeted guidance to teens, their caregivers and policymakers?

“You can’t design good public policy if you don’t know why things are happening,” says Scott Cunningham, an economist at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

Increasing rigor

Concerns over the effects of social media use in children have been circulating for years, resulting in a massive body of scientific literature. But those mostly correlational studies could not show if teen social media use was harming mental health or if teens with mental health problems were using more social media.

Moreover, the findings from such studies were often inconclusive, or the effects on mental health so small as to be inconsequential. In one study that received considerable media attention, psychologists Amy Orben and Andrew Przybylski combined data from three surveys to see if they could find a link between technology use, including social media, and reduced well-being. The duo gauged the well-being of over 355,000 teenagers by focusing on questions around depression, suicidal thinking and self-esteem.

Digital technology use was associated with a slight decrease in adolescent well-being , Orben, now of the University of Cambridge, and Przybylski, of the University of Oxford, reported in 2019 in Nature Human Behaviour . But the duo downplayed that finding, noting that researchers have observed similar drops in adolescent well-being associated with drinking milk, going to the movies or eating potatoes.

Holes have begun to appear in that narrative thanks to newer, more rigorous studies.

In one longitudinal study, researchers — including Orben and Przybylski — used survey data on social media use and well-being from over 17,400 teens and young adults to look at how individuals’ responses to a question gauging life satisfaction changed between 2011 and 2018. And they dug into how the responses varied by gender, age and time spent on social media.

Social media use was associated with a drop in well-being among teens during certain developmental periods, chiefly puberty and young adulthood, the team reported in 2022 in Nature Communications . That translated to lower well-being scores around ages 11 to 13 for girls and ages 14 to 15 for boys. Both groups also reported a drop in well-being around age 19. Moreover, among the older teens, the team found evidence for the Goldilocks Hypothesis: the idea that both too much and too little time spent on social media can harm mental health.

“There’s hardly any effect if you look over everybody. But if you look at specific age groups, at particularly what [Orben] calls ‘windows of sensitivity’ … you see these clear effects,” says L.J. Shrum, a consumer psychologist at HEC Paris who was not involved with this research. His review of studies related to teen social media use and mental health is forthcoming in the Journal of the Association for Consumer Research.

Cause and effect

That longitudinal study hints at causation, researchers say. But one of the clearest ways to pin down cause and effect is through natural or quasi-experiments. For these in-the-wild experiments, researchers must identify situations where the rollout of a societal “treatment” is staggered across space and time. They can then compare outcomes among members of the group who received the treatment to those still in the queue — the control group.

That was the approach Makarin and his team used in their study of Facebook. The researchers homed in on the staggered rollout of Facebook across 775 college campuses from 2004 to 2006. They combined that rollout data with student responses to the National College Health Assessment, a widely used survey of college students’ mental and physical health.

The team then sought to understand if those survey questions captured diagnosable mental health problems. Specifically, they had roughly 500 undergraduate students respond to questions both in the National College Health Assessment and in validated screening tools for depression and anxiety. They found that mental health scores on the assessment predicted scores on the screenings. That suggested that a drop in well-being on the college survey was a good proxy for a corresponding increase in diagnosable mental health disorders. 

Compared with campuses that had not yet gained access to Facebook, college campuses with Facebook experienced a 2 percentage point increase in the number of students who met the diagnostic criteria for anxiety or depression, the team found.

When it comes to showing a causal link between social media use in teens and worse mental health, “that study really is the crown jewel right now,” says Cunningham, who was not involved in that research.

A need for nuance

The social media landscape today is vastly different than the landscape of 20 years ago. Facebook is now optimized for maximum addiction, Shrum says, and other newer platforms, such as Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok, have since copied and built on those features. Paired with the ubiquity of social media in general, the negative effects on mental health may well be larger now.

Moreover, social media research tends to focus on young adults — an easier cohort to study than minors. That needs to change, Cunningham says. “Most of us are worried about our high school kids and younger.” 

And so, researchers must pivot accordingly. Crucially, simple comparisons of social media users and nonusers no longer make sense. As Orben and Przybylski’s 2022 work suggested, a teen not on social media might well feel worse than one who briefly logs on. 

Researchers must also dig into why, and under what circumstances, social media use can harm mental health, Cunningham says. Explanations for this link abound. For instance, social media is thought to crowd out other activities or increase people’s likelihood of comparing themselves unfavorably with others. But big data studies, with their reliance on existing surveys and statistical analyses, cannot address those deeper questions. “These kinds of papers, there’s nothing you can really ask … to find these plausible mechanisms,” Cunningham says.

One ongoing effort to understand social media use from this more nuanced vantage point is the SMART Schools project out of the University of Birmingham in England. Pedagogical expert Victoria Goodyear and her team are comparing mental and physical health outcomes among children who attend schools that have restricted cell phone use to those attending schools without such a policy. The researchers described the protocol of that study of 30 schools and over 1,000 students in the July BMJ Open.

Goodyear and colleagues are also combining that natural experiment with qualitative research. They met with 36 five-person focus groups each consisting of all students, all parents or all educators at six of those schools. The team hopes to learn how students use their phones during the day, how usage practices make students feel, and what the various parties think of restrictions on cell phone use during the school day.

Talking to teens and those in their orbit is the best way to get at the mechanisms by which social media influences well-being — for better or worse, Goodyear says. Moving beyond big data to this more personal approach, however, takes considerable time and effort. “Social media has increased in pace and momentum very, very quickly,” she says. “And research takes a long time to catch up with that process.”

Until that catch-up occurs, though, researchers cannot dole out much advice. “What guidance could we provide to young people, parents and schools to help maintain the positives of social media use?” Goodyear asks. “There’s not concrete evidence yet.”

More Stories from Science News on Science & Society

A hidden danger lurks beneath Yellowstone

Online spaces may intensify teens’ uncertainty in social interactions

Want to see butterflies in your backyard? Try doing less yardwork

Ximena Velez-Liendo is saving Andean bears with honey

‘Flavorama’ guides readers through the complex landscape of flavor

Rain Bosworth studies how deaf children experience the world

Separating science fact from fiction in Netflix’s ‘3 Body Problem’ 

Language models may miss signs of depression in Black people’s Facebook posts

Subscribers, enter your e-mail address for full access to the Science News archives and digital editions.

Not a subscriber? Become one now .

Feb 15, 2023

6 Example Essays on Social Media | Advantages, Effects, and Outlines

Got an essay assignment about the effects of social media we got you covered check out our examples and outlines below.

Social media has become one of our society's most prominent ways of communication and information sharing in a very short time. It has changed how we communicate and has given us a platform to express our views and opinions and connect with others. It keeps us informed about the world around us. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn have brought individuals from all over the world together, breaking down geographical borders and fostering a genuinely global community.

However, social media comes with its difficulties. With the rise of misinformation, cyberbullying, and privacy problems, it's critical to utilize these platforms properly and be aware of the risks. Students in the academic world are frequently assigned essays about the impact of social media on numerous elements of our lives, such as relationships, politics, and culture. These essays necessitate a thorough comprehension of the subject matter, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesize and convey information clearly and succinctly.

But where do you begin? It can be challenging to know where to start with so much information available. Jenni.ai comes in handy here. Jenni.ai is an AI application built exclusively for students to help them write essays more quickly and easily. Jenni.ai provides students with inspiration and assistance on how to approach their essays with its enormous database of sample essays on a variety of themes, including social media. Jenni.ai is the solution you've been looking for if you're experiencing writer's block or need assistance getting started.

So, whether you're a student looking to better your essay writing skills or want to remain up to date on the latest social media advancements, Jenni.ai is here to help. Jenni.ai is the ideal tool for helping you write your finest essay ever, thanks to its simple design, an extensive database of example essays, and cutting-edge AI technology. So, why delay? Sign up for a free trial of Jenni.ai today and begin exploring the worlds of social networking and essay writing!

Want to learn how to write an argumentative essay? Check out these inspiring examples!

We will provide various examples of social media essays so you may get a feel for the genre.

6 Examples of Social Media Essays

Here are 6 examples of Social Media Essays:

The Impact of Social Media on Relationships and Communication

Introduction:.

The way we share information and build relationships has evolved as a direct result of the prevalence of social media in our daily lives. The influence of social media on interpersonal connections and conversation is a hot topic. Although social media has many positive effects, such as bringing people together regardless of physical proximity and making communication quicker and more accessible, it also has a dark side that can affect interpersonal connections and dialogue.

Positive Effects:

Connecting People Across Distances

One of social media's most significant benefits is its ability to connect individuals across long distances. People can use social media platforms to interact and stay in touch with friends and family far away. People can now maintain intimate relationships with those they care about, even when physically separated.

Improved Communication Speed and Efficiency

Additionally, the proliferation of social media sites has accelerated and simplified communication. Thanks to instant messaging, users can have short, timely conversations rather than lengthy ones via email. Furthermore, social media facilitates group communication, such as with classmates or employees, by providing a unified forum for such activities.

Negative Effects:

Decreased Face-to-Face Communication

The decline in in-person interaction is one of social media's most pernicious consequences on interpersonal connections and dialogue. People's reliance on digital communication over in-person contact has increased along with the popularity of social media. Face-to-face interaction has suffered as a result, which has adverse effects on interpersonal relationships and the development of social skills.

Decreased Emotional Intimacy

Another adverse effect of social media on relationships and communication is decreased emotional intimacy. Digital communication lacks the nonverbal cues and facial expressions critical in building emotional connections with others. This can make it more difficult for people to develop close and meaningful relationships, leading to increased loneliness and isolation.

Increased Conflict and Miscommunication

Finally, social media can also lead to increased conflict and miscommunication. The anonymity and distance provided by digital communication can lead to misunderstandings and hurtful comments that might not have been made face-to-face. Additionally, social media can provide a platform for cyberbullying , which can have severe consequences for the victim's mental health and well-being.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the impact of social media on relationships and communication is a complex issue with both positive and negative effects. While social media platforms offer many benefits, such as connecting people across distances and enabling faster and more accessible communication, they also have a dark side that can negatively affect relationships and communication. It is up to individuals to use social media responsibly and to prioritize in-person communication in their relationships and interactions with others.

The Role of Social Media in the Spread of Misinformation and Fake News

Social media has revolutionized the way information is shared and disseminated. However, the ease and speed at which data can be spread on social media also make it a powerful tool for spreading misinformation and fake news. Misinformation and fake news can seriously affect public opinion, influence political decisions, and even cause harm to individuals and communities.

The Pervasiveness of Misinformation and Fake News on Social Media

Misinformation and fake news are prevalent on social media platforms, where they can spread quickly and reach a large audience. This is partly due to the way social media algorithms work, which prioritizes content likely to generate engagement, such as sensational or controversial stories. As a result, false information can spread rapidly and be widely shared before it is fact-checked or debunked.

The Influence of Social Media on Public Opinion

Social media can significantly impact public opinion, as people are likelier to believe the information they see shared by their friends and followers. This can lead to a self-reinforcing cycle, where misinformation and fake news are spread and reinforced, even in the face of evidence to the contrary.

The Challenge of Correcting Misinformation and Fake News

Correcting misinformation and fake news on social media can be a challenging task. This is partly due to the speed at which false information can spread and the difficulty of reaching the same audience exposed to the wrong information in the first place. Additionally, some individuals may be resistant to accepting correction, primarily if the incorrect information supports their beliefs or biases.

In conclusion, the function of social media in disseminating misinformation and fake news is complex and urgent. While social media has revolutionized the sharing of information, it has also made it simpler for false information to propagate and be widely believed. Individuals must be accountable for the information they share and consume, and social media firms must take measures to prevent the spread of disinformation and fake news on their platforms.

The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health and Well-Being

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of people around the world using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay connected with others and access information. However, while social media has many benefits, it can also negatively affect mental health and well-being.

Comparison and Low Self-Esteem

One of the key ways that social media can affect mental health is by promoting feelings of comparison and low self-esteem. People often present a curated version of their lives on social media, highlighting their successes and hiding their struggles. This can lead others to compare themselves unfavorably, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

Another way that social media can negatively impact mental health is through cyberbullying and online harassment. Social media provides a platform for anonymous individuals to harass and abuse others, leading to feelings of anxiety, fear, and depression.

Social Isolation

Despite its name, social media can also contribute to feelings of isolation. At the same time, people may have many online friends but need more meaningful in-person connections and support. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

Addiction and Overuse

Finally, social media can be addictive, leading to overuse and negatively impacting mental health and well-being. People may spend hours each day scrolling through their feeds, neglecting other important areas of their lives, such as work, family, and self-care.

In sum, social media has positive and negative consequences on one's psychological and emotional well-being. Realizing this, and taking measures like reducing one's social media use, reaching out to loved ones for help, and prioritizing one's well-being, are crucial. In addition, it's vital that social media giants take ownership of their platforms and actively encourage excellent mental health and well-being.

The Use of Social Media in Political Activism and Social Movements

Social media has recently become increasingly crucial in political action and social movements. Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have given people new ways to express themselves, organize protests, and raise awareness about social and political issues.

Raising Awareness and Mobilizing Action

One of the most important uses of social media in political activity and social movements has been to raise awareness about important issues and mobilize action. Hashtags such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, for example, have brought attention to sexual harassment and racial injustice, respectively. Similarly, social media has been used to organize protests and other political actions, allowing people to band together and express themselves on a bigger scale.

Connecting with like-minded individuals

A second method in that social media has been utilized in political activity and social movements is to unite like-minded individuals. Through social media, individuals can join online groups, share knowledge and resources, and work with others to accomplish shared objectives. This has been especially significant for geographically scattered individuals or those without access to traditional means of political organizing.

Challenges and Limitations

As a vehicle for political action and social movements, social media has faced many obstacles and restrictions despite its many advantages. For instance, the propagation of misinformation and fake news on social media can impede attempts to disseminate accurate and reliable information. In addition, social media corporations have been condemned for censorship and insufficient protection of user rights.

In conclusion, social media has emerged as a potent instrument for political activism and social movements, giving voice to previously unheard communities and galvanizing support for change. Social media presents many opportunities for communication and collaboration. Still, users and institutions must be conscious of the risks and limitations of these tools to promote their responsible and productive usage.

The Potential Privacy Concerns Raised by Social Media Use and Data Collection Practices

With billions of users each day on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, social media has ingrained itself into every aspect of our lives. While these platforms offer a straightforward method to communicate with others and exchange information, they also raise significant concerns over data collecting and privacy. This article will examine the possible privacy issues posed by social media use and data-gathering techniques.

Data Collection and Sharing

The gathering and sharing of personal data are significant privacy issues brought up by social media use. Social networking sites gather user data, including details about their relationships, hobbies, and routines. This information is made available to third-party businesses for various uses, such as marketing and advertising. This can lead to serious concerns about who has access to and uses our personal information.

Lack of Control Over Personal Information

The absence of user control over personal information is a significant privacy issue brought up by social media usage. Social media makes it challenging to limit who has access to and how data is utilized once it has been posted. Sensitive information may end up being extensively disseminated and may be used maliciously as a result.

Personalized Marketing

Social media companies utilize the information they gather about users to target them with adverts relevant to their interests and usage patterns. Although this could be useful, it might also cause consumers to worry about their privacy since they might feel that their personal information is being used without their permission. Furthermore, there are issues with the integrity of the data being used to target users and the possibility of prejudice based on individual traits.

Government Surveillance

Using social media might spark worries about government surveillance. There are significant concerns regarding privacy and free expression when governments in some nations utilize social media platforms to follow and monitor residents.

In conclusion, social media use raises significant concerns regarding data collecting and privacy. While these platforms make it easy to interact with people and exchange information, they also gather a lot of personal information, which raises questions about who may access it and how it will be used. Users should be aware of these privacy issues and take precautions to safeguard their personal information, such as exercising caution when choosing what details to disclose on social media and keeping their information sharing with other firms to a minimum.

The Ethical and Privacy Concerns Surrounding Social Media Use And Data Collection

Our use of social media to communicate with loved ones, acquire information, and even conduct business has become a crucial part of our everyday lives. The extensive use of social media does, however, raise some ethical and privacy issues that must be resolved. The influence of social media use and data collecting on user rights, the accountability of social media businesses, and the need for improved regulation are all topics that will be covered in this article.

Effect on Individual Privacy:

Social networking sites gather tons of personal data from their users, including delicate information like search history, location data, and even health data. Each user's detailed profile may be created with this data and sold to advertising or used for other reasons. Concerns regarding the privacy of personal information might arise because social media businesses can use this data to target users with customized adverts.

Additionally, individuals might need to know how much their personal information is being gathered and exploited. Data breaches or the unauthorized sharing of personal information with other parties may result in instances where sensitive information is exposed. Users should be aware of the privacy rules of social media firms and take precautions to secure their data.

Responsibility of Social Media Companies:

Social media firms should ensure that they responsibly and ethically gather and use user information. This entails establishing strong security measures to safeguard sensitive information and ensuring users are informed of what information is being collected and how it is used.

Many social media businesses, nevertheless, have come under fire for not upholding these obligations. For instance, the Cambridge Analytica incident highlighted how Facebook users' personal information was exploited for political objectives without their knowledge. This demonstrates the necessity of social media corporations being held responsible for their deeds and ensuring that they are safeguarding the security and privacy of their users.

Better Regulation Is Needed

There is a need for tighter regulation in this field, given the effect, social media has on individual privacy as well as the obligations of social media firms. The creation of laws and regulations that ensure social media companies are gathering and using user information ethically and responsibly, as well as making sure users are aware of their rights and have the ability to control the information that is being collected about them, are all part of this.

Additionally, legislation should ensure that social media businesses are held responsible for their behavior, for example, by levying fines for data breaches or the unauthorized use of personal data. This will provide social media businesses with a significant incentive to prioritize their users' privacy and security and ensure they are upholding their obligations.

In conclusion, social media has fundamentally changed how we engage and communicate with one another, but this increased convenience also raises several ethical and privacy issues. Essential concerns that need to be addressed include the effect of social media on individual privacy, the accountability of social media businesses, and the requirement for greater regulation to safeguard user rights. We can make everyone's online experience safer and more secure by looking more closely at these issues.

In conclusion, social media is a complex and multifaceted topic that has recently captured the world's attention. With its ever-growing influence on our lives, it's no surprise that it has become a popular subject for students to explore in their writing. Whether you are writing an argumentative essay on the impact of social media on privacy, a persuasive essay on the role of social media in politics, or a descriptive essay on the changes social media has brought to the way we communicate, there are countless angles to approach this subject.

However, writing a comprehensive and well-researched essay on social media can be daunting. It requires a thorough understanding of the topic and the ability to articulate your ideas clearly and concisely. This is where Jenni.ai comes in. Our AI-powered tool is designed to help students like you save time and energy and focus on what truly matters - your education. With Jenni.ai , you'll have access to a wealth of examples and receive personalized writing suggestions and feedback.

Whether you're a student who's just starting your writing journey or looking to perfect your craft, Jenni.ai has everything you need to succeed. Our tool provides you with the necessary resources to write with confidence and clarity, no matter your experience level. You'll be able to experiment with different styles, explore new ideas , and refine your writing skills.

So why waste your time and energy struggling to write an essay on your own when you can have Jenni.ai by your side? Sign up for our free trial today and experience the difference for yourself! With Jenni.ai, you'll have the resources you need to write confidently, clearly, and creatively. Get started today and see just how easy and efficient writing can be!

Try Jenni for free today

Create your first piece of content with Jenni today and never look back

How social media’s toxic content sends teens into ‘a dangerous spiral’

October 8, 2021 –  Eating disorders expert Bryn Austin , professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences , discusses the recent revelation that Facebook has long known that its Instagram app is harming teens ’ mental health .

Q: Leaked documents from Facebook show that the company has known for at least two years that its Instagram app is making body image issues worse for teens, particularly girls. What’s your reaction to this news?

A: I was aghast at the news—but not surprised. We’ve known for years that social media platforms—especially image-based platforms like Instagram—have very harmful effects on teen mental health, especially for teens struggling with body image, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. From experimental research, we know that Instagram, with its algorithmically-driven feeds of content tailored to each user’s engagement patterns, can draw vulnerable teens into a dangerous spiral of negative social comparison and hook them onto unrealistic ideals of appearance and body size and shape. Clinicians and parents have been sounding the alarms about this for years. So to hear that Instagram’s own research shows this too is not surprising. What astounds me, though, is what whistleblower Frances Haugen exposed: that, in internal conversations at Instagram, staff and senior leadership acknowledged these very damning findings, and yet the actions they’ve taken in response have been little more than window dressing, sidestepping the fundamental problem of the platform’s predatory algorithms. This revelation is what leaves me aghast.

Q: In a recent  blog post , Instagram’s head of public policy wrote that the company knows that social media “can be a place where people have negative experiences” and that they’re working to mitigate the problem, but added, “Issues like negative social comparison and anxiety exist in the world, so they’re going to exist on social media too.” What do you make of this argument?

A: Instagram is peddling a false narrative that the platform is simply a reflection of its users’ interests and experiences, without distortion or manipulation by the platform. But Instagram knows full well that this not true. In fact, their very business model is predicated on how much they can manipulate users’ behavior to boost engagement and extend time spent on the platform, which the platform then monetizes to sell to advertisers. Instagram is literally selling users’ attention. The company knows that strong negative emotions, which can be provoked by negative social comparison, keep users’ attention longer than other emotions—and Instagram’s algorithms are expressly designed to push teens toward toxic content so that they stay on the platform. For teens struggling with body image, anxiety, or other mental health issues, negative social comparison is a dangerous trap, intensifying their engagement with the platform while worsening their symptoms. But with Instagram’s nefarious business model, every additional minute of users’ attention—regardless of the mental health impact—translates into more profits.

Keep in mind that this is not about just about putting teens in a bad mood. Over time, with exposure to harmful content on social media, the negative impacts add up. And we now have more cause for worry than ever, with the pandemic worsening mental health stressors and social isolation for teens, pushing millions of youth to increase their social media use. We are witnessing dramatic increases in clinical level depression, anxiety, and suicidality , and eating disorders cases have doubled or even tripled at children’s hospitals across the country.

Q: What steps are necessary to lessen potential harm to teens from Instagram?

A: If we have learned anything from the recent Congressional hearings with the whistleblower, the Wall Street Journal investigative reporting, and other important research, it’s that Instagram and Facebook will not—and likely cannot—solve this very serious social problem on their own. The business model, which has proven itself to be exquisitely profitable, is self-reinforcing for investors and top management. The platform’s predatory algorithms have been aggressively guarded, keeping them from being scrutinized by the public, researchers, or government. In fact, U.S. federal regulation on social media hasn’t been meaningfully updated in decades, leaving protections for users and society woefully inadequate.

But with the new revelations, society’s opinion of the industry may have soured and there may be a new willingness to demand meaningful oversight and regulation. What’s encouraging is that on the heels of the recent Congressional hearings, there are already several pieces of legislation in the works to establish a new government system of algorithm auditors, who would have the expertise and authority to require social media algorithms to meet basic standards of safety and transparency for children and users of all ages on Instagram and other social media platforms.

Q: What advice do you have for parents, and for teens who use the platform?

A: Until we have meaningful government oversight in place, there is still a lot that teens and parents can do. Although it’s a real struggle for parents to keep their kids off social media, they can set limits on its use, for instance by requiring that everyone’s phones go into a basket at mealtimes and at bedtime. Parents can also block upsetting content and keep dialogue open about how different types of content can make a young person feel about themselves. Equally important, teens and parents can get involved in advocacy, with groups such as the Eating Disorders Coalition and others, to advance federal legislation to strengthen oversight of social media platforms. With all that we know today about the harmful effects of social media and its algorithms, combined with the powerful stories of teens, parents, and community advocates, we may finally have the opportunity to get meaningful federal regulation in place.

– Karen Feldscher

photo: iStock

Is Social Media Bad for Relationships Argumentative Essay

This argumentative essay will discuss whether social media has a negative impact on personal relationships. It will explore how social media can lead to miscommunications, jealousy, and a lack of privacy, potentially damaging relationships. The piece will also present counterarguments, including how social media can strengthen connections and offer new ways of communication. The essay will evaluate evidence from various studies and expert opinions to support the arguments. Moreover, at PapersOwl, there are additional free essay samples connected to Effects Of Social Media.

How it works

Social media has transformed how we communicate, connect, and exchange information in the modern era. While social media platforms have many advantages, there is a rising concern about their impact on relationships. This paper investigates the risks of social media platforms and how they can impair people’s social and sexual relationships. By examining the consequences of social media on relationships, including the effects on mental health, interpersonal skills, trust, and privacy, we can better understand the potential risks and make informed decisions about our social media usage.

• 1 The Effects of Media on Relationships
• 2 Social Media and Alienation

The Effects of Media on Relationships

Addiction to social media can cause anxiety and depression, negatively impacting people’s well-being and capacity to have meaningful conversations with their loved ones. Because social media is addictive, people may become less aware of the feelings, expectations, and experiences of those around them, leading to a decline in participation in formerly enjoyable activities. Continued reliance on social media for solace can exacerbate mental health difficulties and impede personal and interpersonal achievement.

Prolonged usage of social media can lead to bad interactions between people in different relationships, such as siblings, parents, children, or romantic partners. This decline in interpersonal competencies inhibits effective communication and impedes the formation of relationships. Bonding weakens over time, resulting in instability and discontent. Individuals in a relationship who are disengaged can have difficulty problem-solving and understanding each other’s expectations and social cues.

Addiction to social media is linked to feelings of jealousy and loneliness. Individuals that rely solely on social media platforms for communication and connection miss out on critical social skills development, appreciating personal differences, and maintaining relationships. This loss of self-esteem and fewer face-to-face interactions can lead to interpersonal issues, increasing the risk of failure and negatively altering the experiences of the individuals involved.

Social Media and Alienation

Contrary to popular assumption, social networking platforms can help people create and maintain connections. According to a study, people use social media as a phatic tool to develop and explore relationships with others, building a sense of belonging and lessening feelings of alienation. People can use social media to express themselves, connect with others who share their interests, and strengthen community ties.

Alienation can result from a lack of control and power over one’s own expression. However, social media platforms enable people to express themselves and shape societal values. Social media lessens feelings of alienation by giving people power and control over their lives by allowing anyone to have a voice and impact the world. Furthermore, the greater social regulation and moral advice made possible by social media help to reduce alienation by involving a broader spectrum of opinions.

While social media can be exploitative, it does not always result in isolation. Users actively create content, express themselves, communicate with others, and boost their overall platform engagement. This active participation can aid in developing a sense of empowerment and connection, as well as reducing feelings of alienation and creating a more inclusive online community.

Social media platforms have both beneficial and negative effects on relationships. While social media can provide chances for connection and self-expression, overuse can result in diminished social skills, trust concerns, and a loss of privacy, ultimately hurting individual bonds. Maintaining a balance between online and offline relationships and being aware of social media’s possible risks and problems are critical.

Cite this page

Is Social Media Bad for Relationships Argumentative Essay. (2023, Aug 07). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/is-social-media-bad-for-relationships-argumentative-essay/

"Is Social Media Bad for Relationships Argumentative Essay." PapersOwl.com , 7 Aug 2023, https://papersowl.com/examples/is-social-media-bad-for-relationships-argumentative-essay/

PapersOwl.com. (2023). Is Social Media Bad for Relationships Argumentative Essay . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/is-social-media-bad-for-relationships-argumentative-essay/ [Accessed: 14 May. 2024]

"Is Social Media Bad for Relationships Argumentative Essay." PapersOwl.com, Aug 07, 2023. Accessed May 14, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/is-social-media-bad-for-relationships-argumentative-essay/

"Is Social Media Bad for Relationships Argumentative Essay," PapersOwl.com , 07-Aug-2023. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/is-social-media-bad-for-relationships-argumentative-essay/. [Accessed: 14-May-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2023). Is Social Media Bad for Relationships Argumentative Essay . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/is-social-media-bad-for-relationships-argumentative-essay/ [Accessed: 14-May-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

Skip to content

Read the latest news stories about Mailman faculty, research, and events. 

Departments

We integrate an innovative skills-based curriculum, research collaborations, and hands-on field experience to prepare students.

Learn more about our research centers, which focus on critical issues in public health.

Our Faculty

Meet the faculty of the Mailman School of Public Health. 

Become a Student

Life and community, how to apply.

Learn how to apply to the Mailman School of Public Health. 

Just How Harmful Is Social Media? Our Experts Weigh-In.

A recent investigation by the Wall Street Journal revealed that Facebook was aware of mental health risks linked to the use of its Instagram app but kept those findings secret. Internal research by the social media giant found that Instagram worsened body image issues for one in three teenage girls, and all teenage users of the app linked it to experiences of anxiety and depression. It isn’t the first evidence of social media’s harms. Watchdog groups have identified Facebook and Instagram as avenues for cyberbullying , and reports have linked TikTok to dangerous and antisocial behavior, including a recent spate of school vandalism .

As social media has proliferated worldwide—Facebook has 2.85 billion users—so too have concerns over how the platforms are affecting individual and collective wellbeing. Social media is criticized for being addictive by design and for its role in the spread of misinformation on critical issues from vaccine safety to election integrity, as well as the rise of right-wing extremism. Social media companies, and many users, defend the platforms as avenues for promoting creativity and community-building. And some research has pushed back against the idea that social media raises the risk for depression in teens . So just how healthy or unhealthy is social media?

Two experts from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and Columbia Psychiatry share their insights into one crucial aspect of social media’s influence—its effect on the mental health of young people and adults. Deborah Glasofer , associate professor of psychology in psychiatry, conducts psychotherapy development research for adults with eating disorders and teaches about cognitive behavioral therapy. She is the co-author of the book Eating Disorders: What Everyone Needs to Know. Claude Mellins , Professor of medical psychology in the Departments of Psychiatry and Sociomedical Sciences, studies wellbeing among college and graduate students, among other topics, and serves as program director of CopeColumbia, a peer support program for Columbia faculty and staff whose mental health has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. She co-led the SHIFT research study to reduce sexual violence among undergraduates. Both use social media.

What do we know about the mental health risks of social media use?

Mellins : Facebook and Instagram and other social media platforms are important sources of socialization and relationship-building for many young people. Although there are important benefits, social media can also provide platforms for bullying and exclusion, unrealistic expectations about body image and sources of popularity, normalization of risk-taking behaviors, and can be detrimental to mental health. Girls and young people who identify as sexual and gender minorities can be especially vulnerable as targets. Young people’s brains are still developing, and as individuals, young people are developing their own identities. What they see on social media can define what is expected in ways that is not accurate and that can be destructive to identity development and self-image. Adolescence is a time of risk-taking, which is both a strength and a vulnerability. Social media can exacerbate risks, as we have seen played out in the news. 

Although there are important benefits, social media can also provide platforms for bullying and exclusion, unrealistic expectations about body image and sources of popularity, normalization of risk-taking behaviors, and can be detrimental to mental health. – Claude Mellins

Glasofer : For those vulnerable to developing an eating disorder, social media may be especially unhelpful because it allows people to easily compare their appearance to their friends, to celebrities, even older images of themselves. Research tells us that how much someone engages with photo-related activities like posting and sharing photos on Facebook or Instagram is associated with less body acceptance and more obsessing about appearance. For adolescent girls in particular, the more time they spend on social media directly relates to how much they absorb the idea that being thin is ideal, are driven to try to become thin, and/or overly scrutinize their own bodies. Also, if someone is vulnerable to an eating disorder, they may be especially attracted to seeking out unhelpful information—which is all too easy to find on social media.

Are there any upsides to social media?

Mellins : For young people, social media provides a platform to help them figure out who they are. For very shy or introverted young people, it can be a way to meet others with similar interests. During the pandemic, social media made it possible for people to connect in ways when in-person socialization was not possible.  Social support and socializing are critical influences on coping and resilience. Friends we couldn’t see in person were available online and allowed us important points of connection. On the other hand, fewer opportunities for in-person interactions with friends and family meant less of a real-world check on some of the negative influences of social media.

Whether it’s social media or in person, a good peer group makes the difference. A group of friends that connects over shared interests like art or music, and is balanced in their outlook on eating and appearance, is a positive. – Deborah Glasofer

Glasofer : Whether it’s social media or in person, a good peer group makes the difference. A group of friends that connects over shared interests like art or music, and is balanced in their outlook on eating and appearance, is a positive. In fact, a good peer group online may be protective against negative in-person influences. For those with a history of eating disorders, there are body-positive and recovery groups on social media. Some people find these groups to be supportive; for others, it’s more beneficial to move on and pursue other interests.

Is there a healthy way to be on social media?

Mellins : If you feel social media is a negative experience, you might need a break. Disengaging with social media permanently is more difficult­—especially for young people. These platforms are powerful tools for connecting and staying up-to-date with friends and family. Social events, too. If you’re not on social media then you’re reliant on your friends to reach out to you personally, which doesn’t always happen. It’s complicated.

Glasofer : When you find yourself feeling badly about yourself in relation to what other people are posting about themselves, then social media is not doing you any favors. If there is anything on social media that is negatively affecting your actions or your choices­—for example, if you’re starting to eat restrictively or exercise excessively—then it’s time to reassess. Parents should check-in with their kids about their lives on social media. In general, I recommend limiting social media— creating boundaries that are reasonable and work for you—so you can be present with people in your life. I also recommend social media vacations. It’s good to take the time to notice the difference between the virtual world and the real world.

Persuasive Essay

Persuasive Essays About Social Media

Last updated on: Jan 2, 2024

Learning From Pros To Write Persuasive Essays About Social Media

By: Donna C.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jan 26, 2023

Writing a persuasive essay about social media can be tough. Most people want to make sure they convince their readers of their argument without coming across as aggressive. 

We’ve gathered some examples you can use to write a persuasive essay about social media. 

They will show you how to structure your argument, choose evidence, and avoid common mistakes. 

With our help, you'll be able to write a convincing essay that will get your reader's attention.

Let’s get started!

On this Page

What is a Persuasive Essay?

A persuasive essay tries to convince readers to accept your point of view or opinion on a particular topic. 

You must take a stand, support it with facts and evidence, and explain why it's the right viewpoint. 

It's not enough to just give an opinion; you need to back it up with data and research. 

Persuasive essays are usually written as argumentative essays, so you must develop a thesis statement and support it with evidence. 

Writing a persuasive essay can be difficult. Using strong logic and careful arguments can convince your readers to see things from your perspective.

How to start a Persuasive essay about social media?

Here’s how you can start a persuasive essay:

• Start your persuasive essay about social networking sites by introducing the issue and outlining why it matters. 
• Explain the potential implications of unrestricted access to social media and how that could affect our society. 
• Take a stance on the issue, supporting it with evidence from reliable sources. 
• Discuss ways social media can be used to benefit our lives, as well as possible risks associated with its use. 
• End your persuasive essay with a call to action, encouraging readers to make informed decisions about social media usage.

Need help in starting your essay? See how you can create a persuasive essay outline .

Remember, the main goal of your essay is to persuade readers to consider your point of view.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Here is an example to show you how to write an introduction:

Persuasive essay about social media introduction

Not sure on how to write the intro? Watch this video to write a perfect introduction.

Persuasive Essay Examples About Social Media 

Social media has become an integral part of our lives. It's time to understand its power and impact. 

Let’s start with a simple persuasive essay about social media.

Here are a few persuasive essay examples that showcase the potential of social media positively and negatively. 

Persuasive essay about social media addiction

Persuasive essay about social media platforms are a danger to our privacy

Persuasive essay about social media - beneficial or harmful

Persuasive essay about social media privacy

Examples Of Argumentative Essay About Social Media

It's clear that social media has changed how we interact and communicate with others. So it's no surprise that this topic makes for an excellent argumentative essay. 

Here are some examples of argumentative essays about social media that you can use as inspiration to get started: 

Argumentative essay about social media advantages and disadvantages

Argumentative essay about social media addiction

Argumentative essay about social media on students

Looking for more sample PDFs? Take a look at these persuasive essay examples !

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Media

Here are some ideas for persuasive essay topics about social media: 

• Should governments be able to control the content that appears on social networks? 
• How can companies protect their data from hackers and other malicious actors on social media platforms? 
• How has social media impacted real-life relationships between individuals and groups?
• Are influencers a powerful tool of persuasion, or are they a threat to democracy? 
• How can schools and universities use social media responsibly in the classroom? 
• Should employers be allowed to monitor their employees' use of social media during work hours? 
• Is the current data privacy landscape sufficient to protect individual users on social networks?
• Should businesses be held accountable for their social media content? 
• How have the algorithms used by social media companies impacted our lives? 
• What are the ethical implications of using targeted advertising based on user data collected from social networks? 

Need more options? Here are some more persuasive essay topics for you!

Let’s sum it up!

Social media isn't going away anytime soon, and lots of people need to understand the benefits and dangers of using it. 

By writing a persuasive essay about social media, you can help others become more aware of both sides of the issue.

Our examples make it easier for people to make an informed decision about how to use it responsibly. 

Make your voice heard and write a persuasive essay about social media today. 

Are you looking for an essay writer who can craft an argument that will make your reader stand up and listen? 

SharkPapers.com has got you covered!

Our essay writing service is designed to help you create the perfect argument supported by expert-level research and compelling evidence.

We understand how important it is to ensure your essay is persuasive. 

So if you're looking for a top-notch persuasive essay writing service, SharkPapers.com is the place to be. 

Let our persuasive essay writer craft the perfect argument for you today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good persuasive essay topics.

When choosing a topic, you need something interesting that grabs the reader’s attention. 

Here are some great topics for your next persuasive essay: 

1. Should schools have mandatory uniforms?  2. Should students be allowed to use cell phones in class?  3. Should we get rid of teacher tenure?  4. Is gun control an effective way to reduce crime rates?  5. Do video games lead to violence among teens? 

How do you write an introduction for social media essay?

The main purpose of an introduction is to provide a general overview of the topic and spark interest in readers. So it should be concise yet intriguing.

To give you an idea, here are some advice and tips on how to write an effective introduction:

1. Start with a hook 2. Provide background information  3. Include relevant research studies 4. Mention central points

What is a good title for a social media essay?

If you're looking for a great title for a social media essay, why not consider this:

"The Impact of Social Media on Our Lives: A Detailed Analysis". 

Law, Education

Donna writes on a broad range of topics, but she is mostly passionate about social issues, current events, and human-interest stories. She has received high praise for her writing from both colleagues and readers alike. Donna is known in her field for creating content that is not only professional but also captivating.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

• How To Write a Persuasive Essay That Wins Over Your Reader

• 200 Great Persuasive Essay Topics to Help Get You Started

• 14 Persuasive Essay Examples to Help You Get Started

• How to Write a Persuasive Essay Outline: The Ultimate Guide

• 10+ Persuasive Essay About Gun Control Examples and Topics

• Persuasive Essay About Covid-19: 11 Examples that Inspire

• Writing a Persuasive Essay about Business: Examples & Tips

• Writing a Persuasive Essay about Abortion: Tips and Examples

• Persuasive Essay About Online Education Examples to Help You Out

• Write a Persuasive Essay About Bullying With Our Examples

• Writing Persuasive Essays About Smoking? Use These Samples

• Crafting a Compelling Persuasive Essay About Death Penalty

People Also Read

• research proposal
• personal statement examples
• article review
• essay introduction

Burdened With Assignments?

Advertisement

© 2024 - All rights reserved

2000+ SATISFIED STUDENTS

95% Satisfaction RATE

30 Days Money Back GUARANTEE

95% Success RATE

Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Contact Us

© 2021 SharkPapers.com(Powered By sharkpapers.com). All rights reserved.

© 2022 Sharkpapers.com. All rights reserved.

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT

SIGN UP TO YOUR ACCOUNT

• Your phone no.
• Confirm Password
•    I have read Privacy Policy and agree to the Terms and Conditions .

FORGOT PASSWORD

• SEND PASSWORD

• Entertainment

Persuasive Essay about Negative Effects of Social Media

With over 3.6 million individuals using social media, it's an expansive and active growing community around the world.  But social media is causing harm and distress to people's mental health. Social media is also manipulating people's thoughts and what they buy. Although young people appear to be increasingly using social media to communicate distress, particularly to peers, it is still harmful because some people don’t have the luxury of finding those types of people. Social media is quite harmful because “students who spent more time on Facebook were more likely to feel envious of others and worse about themselves” ( Bronfenbrenner center for translation research 1 ). Also, social platforms manipulate people, “YouTube videos were to convince me that ‘the Media is lying.’  people should respond by spending less time consuming ‘the media,’ and probably more time on YouTube. Since YouTube optimizes watch time, these videos will become highly recommended”(How Algorithms Can Learn to Discredit the Media pg 2). Although social media gives young people a place to communicate distress on social platforms, it is quite harmful because young people are manipulated into consuming more media and wanting a better body image.  

A distinct benefit of social media is its ability to develop care groups. Young teens around the world are using social media to aid other individuals, recent research shows, “Young people appear to be increasingly using social media to communicate distress, particularly to peers” (The good, the bad and the unknown 2). People construct communities to support each other on social media. In addition, social media’s ability to bring small groups of singled-out individuals who are dealing with similar problems to convene from around the world to assist each other with depression and feeling alone. To further my example of how social media benefits people is its ability to help youth seek out support and lessen the chance of self-harm.  The Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research states, “Social media can have a positive impact on help-seeking and support provision, efforts to understand how to best minimize potential harm and maximize potential benefits are important next steps” (The Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research 2). As a society people should take measures to minimize harm to others and maximize the benefits of social media. 

One of the biggest negatives about social media is how it manipulates people. Platforms like Youtube try to convince users to believe something, and then show people videos on it to maximize watch time. Some users report that social platforms were trying to manipulate them.  Guillaume Chaslot said  “YouTube videos were trying to convince me that the Media is lying. I would respond by spending less time consuming the media  and probably, more time on YouTube.” Since YouTube optimizes watch time, these videos will become highly recommended” (How Algorithms Can Learn to Discredit the Media pg 2). Algorithms make people spend more time on the platform by showing them what they want to see and hear. This is important to know because people are being shown one point of view and it narrows their minds. An additional example is that technology manipulates people's ideas of their bodies.  Sites like Instagram and Snapchat use filters to enhance nice facial features and make people look better while hiding imperfections. Jia Tolentino states “I told Smith that I couldn’t shake the feeling that technology is rewriting our bodies to correspond to its interests—rearranging our faces according to whatever increases engagement and likes. “Don’t you think it’s scary to imagine people doing this forever?”(The Age of Instagram Face 3) Technology is trying to make people look better in its internist.  It manipulates how we think people should look. It creates a standard people think they have to live up to, but can't, and it makes people feel bad.  Social media is manipulating people's minds and thoughts by using tools like algorithms and filters.  

Social media has shown that it severely affects people's mental health. The more time spent on social media the more envious and worse we will feel about ourselves. Facebook is making people feel worse about themselves, causing their mental health to deteriorate.  Combined with social platforms’ impact on mental health it’s no coincidence suicide and suicidal thoughts have been going up. As is shown the “Number of young people admitted to the hospital for attempting suicide or having suicidal thoughts has doubled in the past 10 years”(The Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research 3). Technology is connected with higher suicide rates. It heavily affects people's mental health and body imagery causing suicide and depression.

Related Samples

• Fruitvale Station Movie Analysis
• Are Modern Lyrics Too Explicit for Younger Audiences?
• Poor Kids Movie Review
• Digital Storytelling Essya Example
• Essay Example on Dangers of Social Media
• Film Analysis: The Prestige
• Imperial Dreams Movie Review
• Essay Sample: Image and Reality
• Essay Sample about Celebrity Activists in Contemporary Society
• How Social Media Can Affect Youth (Essay Sample)

Didn't find the perfect sample?

You can order a custom paper by our expert writers

Forgotten password

Please enter the email address that you use to login to TeenInk.com, and we'll email you instructions to reset your password.

• Poetry All Poetry Free Verse Song Lyrics Sonnet Haiku Limerick Ballad
• Fiction All Fiction Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Scripts & Plays Thriller/Mystery All Novels Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Thriller/Mystery Other
• Nonfiction All Nonfiction Bullying Books Academic Author Interviews Celebrity interviews College Articles College Essays Educator of the Year Heroes Interviews Memoir Personal Experience Sports Travel & Culture All Opinions Bullying Current Events / Politics Discrimination Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking Entertainment / Celebrities Environment Love / Relationships Movies / Music / TV Pop Culture / Trends School / College Social Issues / Civics Spirituality / Religion Sports / Hobbies All Hot Topics Bullying Community Service Environment Health Letters to the Editor Pride & Prejudice What Matters
• Reviews All Reviews Hot New Books Book Reviews Music Reviews Movie Reviews TV Show Reviews Video Game Reviews Summer Program Reviews College Reviews
• Art/Photo Art Photo Videos
• Summer Guide Program Links Program Reviews
• College Guide College Links College Reviews College Essays College Articles

Summer Guide

College guide.

• Song Lyrics

All Fiction

• Action-Adventure
• Fan Fiction
• Historical Fiction
• Realistic Fiction
• Sci-fi/Fantasy
• Scripts & Plays
• Thriller/Mystery

All Nonfiction

• Author Interviews
• Celebrity interviews
• College Articles
• College Essays
• Educator of the Year
• Personal Experience
• Travel & Culture

All Opinions

• Current Events / Politics
• Discrimination
• Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking
• Entertainment / Celebrities
• Environment
• Love / Relationships
• Movies / Music / TV
• Pop Culture / Trends
• School / College
• Social Issues / Civics
• Spirituality / Religion
• Sports / Hobbies

All Hot Topics

• Community Service
• Letters to the Editor
• Pride & Prejudice
• What Matters

All Reviews

• Hot New Books
• Book Reviews
• Music Reviews
• Movie Reviews
• TV Show Reviews
• Video Game Reviews

Summer Program Reviews

• College Reviews
• Writers Workshop
• Regular Forums
• Program Links
• Program Reviews
• College Links

Social Media Argumentative Essay

Social media is the reason for many of the world’s problems and solutions. It can be used to raise awareness for an important cause, but it can also be used to spread hate, especially between teenagers. Being a teenager, I can be the first to say that social media is how most teens run their life, but is it the right way? Austen McCann makes a brilliant point in his article, “Social media has allowed them to take their life online and instead of saying goodbye to friends at school and waiting to see them the next day...”Although social media can connect teens to the world and friends and family around them, it is actually one of the highest ranking causes of suicide amongst teenagers in the 21st century. As important as connection via the internet can be, social media does not have to be the primary source for teenagers. The average teenager spends a minimum of 2 hours and 20 minutes on social media every day. In Austin McCann’s Impact of Social Media on Teens articles he brings up that “social media is becoming more than a part of their world, it’s becoming their world.” Teens complain about constantly being stressed with homework, but maybe homework isn’t the main source of the stress. EveryDay Health magazine states that, on statistics, a teenager who spends more time outdoor is generally a happier and healthier kid. However, since 2000, the time teenagers spend outside has decreased significantly causing more depression and obesity. Not only does it affect health, social media deprives parents from having a thorough conversation with their children without them checking their phone. Even though the positive effect of having a social media profile is to communicate with friends/family, they don’t even have the decency to lift their head and engage in a conversation. Enjoying the little things around them becomes a difficult task to the average teenager when they’re too busy tweeting about it. The contradicting effects of it goes to show that social media is not all it is talked up to be. Should. That is the word that teenagers have no choice but to constantly follow. Social media encourages the false images of how everything should be in a perfect world. This impact is what causes the insecurities and questionings to girls and boys. These misleading pictures of how bodies, relationships, houses, cars, etc. should be are what lowers self esteem and leads to depression and suicides. Aside from connecting, social media revolves around who “retweeted” who’s "selfie" and “how many favorites did that pic get”. It’s almost sickening knowing that teenagers base their insecurities around how many likes they get. The false perception of life portrayed all over social media is misleading towards teens and not worth the effort to filter. Not only is social media misleading, it is also very unimportant. Aside from the news part of the sites, a majority of the posts are extremely insignificant and unimportant to our world. The kind of information that “Becky just got new car interior” is completely useless in the long run. Nicholas Wapshott states in his Buying Into Big Brother article about social media says, “We may take pity on the idiot schoolboy who uses expletives on Twitter or posts a picture of himself holding a joint at a party only to discover when he looks for a job that a trawl by an HR department has made him unemployable.” Taking a step back can open your eyes to the realization that nothing your friends are going to post will affect your life in the long run. Instead of going through the drama and irrelevant parts of social media, connect with your friends and family by calling them up and avoid the complications and uselessness of the web sites. Avoiding social media can be very difficult. Especially in a situation where one used it daily and transitioned over within a week. It’s a very challenging task, but in the long run, you will not have to worry about wasting your time, false perceptions and unnecessary information! Encouraging teens and friends to spend less time on social media and more time actually socializing can really change your life for the better.

Similar Articles

Join the discussion.

This article has 9 comments.

• Subscribe to Teen Ink magazine
• Submit to Teen Ink
• Find A College
• Find a Summer Program

Share this on

Send to a friend.

Thank you for sharing this page with a friend!

Tell my friends

Choose what to email.

Which of your works would you like to tell your friends about? (These links will automatically appear in your email.)

Send your email

Delete my account, we hate to see you go please note as per our terms and conditions, you agreed that all materials submitted become the property of teen ink. going forward, your work will remain on teenink.com submitted “by anonymous.”, delete this, change anonymous status, send us site feedback.

If you have a suggestion about this website or are experiencing a problem with it, or if you need to report abuse on the site, please let us know. We try to make TeenInk.com the best site it can be, and we take your feedback very seriously. Please note that while we value your input, we cannot respond to every message. Also, if you have a comment about a particular piece of work on this website, please go to the page where that work is displayed and post a comment on it. Thank you!

Pardon Our Dust

Teen Ink is currently undergoing repairs to our image server. In addition to being unable to display images, we cannot currently accept image submissions. All other parts of the website are functioning normally. Please check back to submit your art and photography and to enjoy work from teen artists around the world!

• ENCYCLOPEDIA
• IN THE CLASSROOM

Home » Perspective » Why removing protections on social media – in the name of free speech – is bad for peacebuilding

Why removing protections on social media – in the name of free speech – is bad for peacebuilding

By Paul Reilly, the Conversation, published on May 13, 2024

On May 16 the world will mark the U.N. International Day of Living Together in Peace. It is a rallying call for people to  listen respectfully  to others and promote tolerance and understanding. 

Perhaps someone should tell tech entrepreneurs Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk. The online platforms they head up – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X – have become synonymous with fake news, hate speech, misinformation and other online harms. 

Social media has been widely blamed for destabilizing democracies and fomenting civil unrest in Europe and North America. In July 2023, the French president, Emmanuel Macron,  proposed  restricting access to online platforms in order to quell rioting. 

This is a far cry from 2009, when Facebook  proudly claimed  it had created “friendships” between seemingly irredeemably rival groups: Sunni and Shia Muslims, Muslims and Jews, Pakistanis and Indians, Greeks and Turks, conservatives and liberals. 

“Peace on Facebook” was a classic example of what social scientist Nicholas John  refers  to as “social media bulls–t.” Such PR blurbs are designed to convince the public these tech companies are a force for good. They purposefully describe themselves as “platforms” – rather than commercial entities – to emphasize how benign they are. 

In reality, these companies financially benefit from every click, like, share and comment users on their platforms make. The more inflammatory the content, the more profitable it is.  My research  shows that such online incivility only makes it harder to promote peaceful coexistence.

Divisive content

There appears little chance of social media platforms taking stronger action to remove divisive content. Since tech entrepreneur Elon Musk’s acquisition of the X (formerly Twitter) microblogging platform in October 2022, the guardrails designed to protect minorities have, in fact, been dismantled. 

Twitter’s Trust and Safety Council was dissolved in December 2022. This move, among many other policy changes, prompted an insider to go public with fears  that the site could no longer protect users from trolling, disinformation and sexual exploitation.

Musk has reportedly described himself as a  “free-speech absolutist.” This is particularly problematic for those whose real job it is to promote peace in deeply divided societies.

There is already  extensive evidence  that online platforms such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) have been used to spread hate speech. They have been used to incite sectarian violence, too, in countries including  India  and  Myanmar . 

In Sri Lanka, following anti-Muslim rioting in 2018, Facebook  issued an apology  for its role in the unrest. The company hired Article One, the human-rights consultancy, to investigate what had happened. It concluded that the hate speech and misinformation that was amplified by Facebook users online “may have led” to violence offline.

Amplified rumors

My research  shows that rumors, misinformation and disinformation have frequently been amplified by social media during contentious parades and protests in Northern Ireland. There is little evidence that such online activity inevitably leads to sectarian rioting. The indirect effects of online incivility, however, is that it makes it harder to promote reconciliation between former antagonists. 

In effect, online platforms at present focus more attention on what divides rather than unites different communities. 

Research shows that  unsupervised intergroup contact , both on and offline, is unlikely to foster positive peace in societies that are transitioning out of conflict. Reducing prejudices against outgroups is much easier when there are rules in place to respond to content that inflames tensions between different communities. In other words, rival groups are unlikely to find common ground in unregulated online spaces where hate speech flourishes. 

Clearly, frequent exposure to the online hate speech amplified by social media platforms is unlikely to aid peacebuilding. Communities who do not typically share the same physical space are unlikely to think differently about each other when they see such negative stereotypes being perpetuated online.

Social media such as Facebook and X might not be the best place to promote peace. These platforms are designed to generate profit, not improve community relations. 

For intergroup dialogue in contemporary societies to be effective, minorities and vulnerable communities need stronger protections, not less. A  public service internet , guardrails included, might be a better way to promote reconciliation in divided societies. Paul Reilly is senior lecturer in communications, media and democracy at the University of Glasgow. The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.

The Free Speech Center newsletter offers a digest of First Amendment- and news media-related news every other week. Subscribe for free here:  https://bit.ly/3kG9uiJ

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Political lawn signs ordinance in Pa. town ruled unconstitutional

May 13, 2024

Ohio attorney general warns student protesters in masks could face felony charges under anti-KKK law

May 10, 2024

Perspective

New book explores John Stuart Mill’s influence on U.S. free speech protections

May 7, 2024

Nashville Scene reporter describes arrest at Vanderbilt University

April 10, 2024

Explore The First Amendment Encyclopedia

More than 1,700 articles on First Amendment topics, court cases and history