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Have some relaxing and dreamy music while walking to the Dreamland of Media.

We hereby declare that we do not own the rights to this music. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

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Allow us to be your guide to the journey to the dreamland of media. Sleep tight and dream tight, as we will embark to a journey full of wonder, but before you officially read our blogs, let us introduce ourselves first.

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Hi! I'm Christziea Daise D. Manzo from the ABM strand.

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"It's not about what caught your attention, it's about the message. Be cautious, be a Media Literate."

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In today's era most people care only about the information they would have, not thinking if it is misinformation or disinformation. With that attitude, it may lead them in contributing to the so-called cancer of the internet, the fake news.

We all know what information is, it is self-explanatory, but according to Oxford Languages, information is the facts provided or learned about something or someone. While many people are confused with misinformation and disinformation. According to Reader’s Digest, misinformation is false, misleading, or out-of-context content shared without an intent to deceive. While Disinformation is purposefully false or misleading content shared with an intent to deceive and cause harm.

The difference between the misinformation and disinformation is the purpose, one is intently deceiving and the other one is not, while the similarity of the two is both of them shares a false information. According to Reader’s Digest, usually misinformation falls under the free speech while disinformation falls in a hate speech. Also, according to them, misinformation has a smaller scope or isolated as it is not intended while disinformation is intended it usually become more widespread because of connection and power.

Now that we’ve already defined the three variables, maybe some of you will ask “what is it now to us?” It is not just about defining it but to deeper understand what it is about. Sometimes it is hard to identify if it is misinformation or disinformation because we’re not aware if that false information is intended to deceive or not. Misinformation and Disinformation was a spread widely when we are at the height of COVID-19, some people are sharing this and that about the cure of the disease and it results to harm. Nancy Watzman, a strategic advisor at First Draft says that “People die because of misinformation,” “It could be argued that people have died because of misinformation during the pandemic—for example, by taking a drug that’s not effective or even harmful.” Also, spreading news that vaccines are not effective may add to the threats of the disease. Misinformation may affect us in different aspects of our life such as decision making of the least important to the most important thing.

We already understand the meaning, differences and example but the obstacle we need to handle now is how we will recognize them. Information is easy to recognize but misinformation and disinformation is a bit hard. Nancy Watzman recommended that we should stop and wait before we share especially when we are driven by emotions as emotions can lead us to sharing a false information. Another thing she recommend is for us to have a healthy dose of skepticism when looking to images as she also said that “Images can be doctored,” as sometimes people are used in recycling images or media just to deceive others. Let’s be more aware and cautious in anything we see especially on the internet as it might deceive us and may affect in our decisions. Thank you and God Bless!

Budgar, L., & Watzman, N. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.rd.com/article/misinformation-vs-disinformation/

Oxford Languages. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.google.com/search?q=information&sca_esv=566842583&hl=en&source=hp&ei=XooKZbv_D8mghwOnhYO4CA&iflsig=AO6bgOgAAAAAZQqYbui4BZKQlyVtKB_ETdnUHbt_BYl&oq=infor&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IgVpbmZvcioCCAEyCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBMgsQABiABBixAxiDATILEAAYgAQYsQMYgwEyCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBMgsQABiABBixAxiDATILEAAYgAQYsQMYgwEyCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBMgsQABiABBixAxiDATILEAAYigUYsQMYgwEyCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBSLsUUABY5gRwAHgAkAEAmAFvoAHiA6oBAzQuMbgBA8gBAPgBAcICCBAAGIAEGLEDwgIFEC4YgATCAgUQABiABMICCBAuGIAEGLED&sclient=gws-wiz&safe=active&ssui=on

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Hi! I'm Charlize Anne R. Matienzo from the ABM Strand.

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"Digital games can be fun, but excessive use can let your senses gone"

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Digital Games: Its Positive and Negative Effects 

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Digital Games: Its Positive and Negative Effects 

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Since technology entered our world, many people are considering digital games as a form of entertainment. Escaping in reality and playing virtually are exciting for the players who are hugely influenced by the digital games. But the usage of video games should be balance to avoid its negative effects.

A digital video game is any game that people can play with the assistance of a computer or any electronic device. Many people have been influenced by video games because they allow the players to experience excitement and thrills while just sitting in a chair. As stated in the article titled Benefits of Video Games for Kids and Adults, the benefits of playing video games are healthy brain stimulation, development of problem-solving skills, and stress relief. It also stated that researchers and surgeons discovered that those who played video games were faster at performing advanced procedures and made fewer mistakes than those who didn't play digital games. The reason is, video games have controllers that require the skill of the hand; this is called manual dexterity.

The other benefits that are also stated in the article are, video games can increase the brain's gray matter, improve vision, and improve social skills. In one study, researchers found that those who played video games were more likely to see objects more clearly in cluttered spaces because of improved spatial resolution. According to the research of Doug Bolton (2016), students who play more video games are better at social skills and perform better academically. It's because in playing online games, the players have interaction with their teammates and they will think of a strategy to win the game.

Despite its positive effects, it has negative effects too. Excessive use of online games can negatively affect the physical and mental health of a person. As stated in the article, online games has addictive tendencies which can decrease the productivity of a person, and increase the chance of having depression. According to the study, the most common comorbidities of video games addiction are, ADHD, anxiety, and depression with an average of 89%.      Also, spending too much time playing online games can lead to physical health issues such as, poor posture, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, and eye strain.

All things has its positive and negative effects, all we need to do is to be wise, responsible, and control ourselves. Playing are like exploring, expressing yourself, and having fun in the virtual world where you can act as another character. So, continue dreaming and visiting the virtual world, but make sure to wear armor and shield to protect yourself from enemies that will cause you to lose the game.

Benefits of Video Games for Kids and Adults. Retrieved from
https://living.geico.com/home/technology/9-reasons-to-give-video-games-a-try/#:~:text=Past%20research%20involving%20children%20found,to%20some%20types%20of%20games.

Doug Bolton, (2016). Retrieved from
https://www.independent.co.uk/games/video-games-children-learning-intelligence-social-skills-study-a6920961.html

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Games. Retrieved from https://www.educba.com/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-online-games/

Video Games and Depression: Do Video Games Cause Depression? Retrieved from
https://gamequitters.com/do-video-games-cause-depression/#:~:text=In%20addition%2C%20excessive%20gaming%20creates,lead%20to%20feelings%20of%20depression.

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Digital Divide and Its Impact on Democracy

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Digital Divide and Its Impact on Democracy

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In our increasingly interconnected world, the digital divide—characterized by differences in access to and usage of digital technologies—has emerged as a critical problem. By improving access to information, encouraging civic engagement, and facilitating communication, technology has the potential to improve democracy. However, the digital divide poses a threat to these advantages, expanding societal inequality and endangering the democratic process.

Democracy's foundational element is access to information. The internet is a massive repository of information, news, and various points of view in the digital age. The digital divide, however, widens the gap in access to this knowledge. People who only have interrupted internet connectivity cannot fully engage with the information landscape, which puts them at a disadvantage. Due to their lack of access, they are unable to make educated decisions as citizens, which may cause them to cast uninformed votes or engage in fewer civic activities.

The digital divide also has an impact on political participation. Online channels are becoming crucial for political communication, outreach during campaigns, and voter mobilization. It may be difficult for those without internet connections or digital literacy skills to take part in these crucial democratic processes. This exclusion possibly reinforces current power structures by discriminating against particular demographics and limiting the range of views in political debates.

The digital gap has an effect on voting as well. Those without digital connectivity confront challenges to voting in a time when electronic voting systems and online voter registration are becoming more widespread. Furthermore, people with low levels of digital literacy may be disproportionately affected by the dissemination of false information and fake news on digital platforms, leaving them more vulnerable to fraudulent activity and manipulation.

Policymakers must give digital inclusion projects top priority if they are to address how the digital gap affects democracy. This involves expanding broadband availability in communities that are underserved, offering digital literacy instruction, and promoting cost-effective internet solutions. Additionally, social media and internet platform providers need to be held accountable for preventing the spread of misinformation and making sure that their algorithms don't perpetuate echo chambers.

As a result of limiting information availability, hindering political participation, and decreasing election integrity, the digital divide poses a serious threat to democracy. Protecting democratic values and ensuring that all citizens may benefit from the digital age depend on bridging this difference through fair access to digital technologies and fostering digital literacy.

Shirazi, F., Ngwenyama, O., & Morawczynski, O. (2010). ICT expansion and the digital divide in democratic freedoms: An analysis of the impact of ICT expansion, education and ICT filtering on democracy. Telematics and Informatics, 27(1), 21–31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tele.2009.05.001

Hanna, K. T. (2021). digital divide. WhatIs.com. https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/digital-divide

Nadeem, R. (2022, September 15). Conerns about democracy in the digital age | Pew Research Center. Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2020/02/21/concerns-about-democracy-in-the-digital-age/

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Tools for artificial intelligence (AI) have quickly influenced many facets of our lives, including healthcare, banking, and education. These tools have a great deal of promise to improve productivity and innovation, but they also raise significant ethical, social, and economic issues that make us wonder if AI is more of a help or a hindrance.

On the one hand, AI tools have transformed businesses and significantly enhanced many aspects of daily life. AI-driven diagnostic algorithms in healthcare have the potential to quickly and reliably identify medical issues, potentially saving lives. Robots with AI capabilities boost output and cut down on mistakes in manufacturing. Additionally, AI improves personalization in services like recommendation systems on streaming platforms and e-commerce websites, leading to better customer experiences.

But there are issues with the quick adoption of AI tools. Job displacement is an important problem. As tasks are automated by AI, it may result in employment losses in some industries. Although proponents claim that AI can generate new employment opportunities in disciplines such as data science and AI development, there is no guarantee that these chances will completely make up for any jobs that are lost, which could exacerbate economic inequality.

AI tools also present ethical issues, especially in the areas of bias and privacy. Huge volumes of personal data are frequently used in AI algorithms, causing issues with data security and personal privacy. Additionally, biases in training data might be inherited by AI systems, leading to unfair and discriminatory consequences like biased employment practices or biased law enforcement algorithms.

Concerns have also been raised regarding how transparent AI decision-making is. It can be tricky to hold artificial intelligence (AI) systems accountable as they become more complicated and difficult to understand. Because AI systems are incomprehensible, their general adoption may be hampered.

In conclusion, AI tools present society with both enormous benefits and challenges. They clearly have the potential to boost productivity and creativity across a range of industries, but they also raise difficult ethical, financial, and social problems. To make sure that AI continues to be a benefit rather than a burden to our society, smart regulation, ethical concerns, and constant dialogue are necessary to strike the correct balance between utilizing the potential benefits of AI while reducing its potential drawbacks.

Crisc, A. L. C. a. C. C. (n.d.). Artificial Intelligence - A “Help” or  “Hindrance”? www.linkedin.com. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/artificial-intelligence-help-hindrance-anil-lamba-mba-cisa

Dimovski, S. (2023, September 18). More Help Than Hindrance: Making AI Work For Your Portfolio Career. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2023/09/18/more-help-than-hindrance-making-ai-work-for-your-portfolio-career/amp/

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Hi!! I’m Ashlyn Ryza S. Prellejera from the ABM strand

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“Think not just twice but ten times before clicking the key enter”

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Hi! I’m Sydney Audrey M. De Guzman from the ABM Strand.

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"Empowering minds through media, information, and technology literacy is the advocate's toolkit for shaping a world where knowledge leads, truth prevails, and progress thrives."

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HI! I'm  Aira Lian M. Genove from the ABM Strand.

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"Just as literature can transport us to different worlds, digital games have the power to transport us to virtual realms where imagination knows no bounds."

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Welcome to the digital era, where the internet has become an integral part of our lives. It connects us, entertains us, and provides us with a wealth of information. However, lurking within this vast virtual world are hidden dangers that can have serious consequences. In this blog, we will take a journey into the dreamland of media, exploring the potential risks and dangers that we may encounter along the way.

In the dreamland of media, we often feel a sense of security behind our screens. We share personal information, engage in online transactions, and connect with strangers without fully realizing the risks involved. From data breaches to identity theft, the internet can quickly turn from a haven to a breeding ground for cybercriminals. We must be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect our digital identities.

As we navigate to the dreamland of media, we come across a tangled web of deceit. Deceptive material, deceptive advertising, and internet fraud are frequent traps that can cause us to lose our way. It is essential to cultivate our ability to think critically and confirm the credibility of the information we consume. Through this, we can distinguish truth from falsehood and make well-informed choices.

Social media platforms have revolutionized the way we connect and share our lives. However, they also come with their own set of dangers. From cyberbullying to online harassment, the dreamland of media can quickly turn into a nightmare for many individuals. It is essential to promote empathy, kindness, and responsible behavior in the digital realm to create a safer online environment.

The dreamland of media can be addictive, captivating us with its endless stream of entertainment and constant connectivity. This addiction can take a toll on our mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Balancing our online and offline lives is crucial for maintaining a healthy well-being and fostering genuine human connections.

As we delve deeper into the dreamland of media, we must consider the impact it has on the younger generation. Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable to online dangers such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and online predators. It is our responsibility to educate and guide them, promoting digital literacy and ensuring their safety in this ever-evolving digital landscape.

The internet has undoubtedly transformed our lives, opening up a world of opportunities and possibilities. However, it is essential to recognize and address the dangers that come with this digital realm. By staying informed, practicing responsible online behavior, and prioritizing our well-being, we can navigate the dreamland of media with caution and reap its benefits while minimizing the risks. Remember, the internet is a tool, and it is up to us to use it wisely to create a safer and more enriching digital experience for all.

Severan, BJ (2020). What are the dangers of using the internet for kids?

https://milwaukee-criminal-lawyer.com/what-are-the-dangers-of-using-the-internet-for-kids/

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Hello!  I'm Clarabelle M. Balba from the ABM strand

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"Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope"

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The Opportunities, Threats, and Challenges of Media, Information, and Technology Literacy

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The Opportunities, Threats, and Challenges of Media, Information, and Technology Literacy

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Today, we are living in a digital era where we can easily access information which allow us to do our task more efficiently. It provides opportunities for its users to entertain themselves, access information online, and use media to communicate with various people around the world. However, there are also threats and challenges to these opportunities. Some users are exploiting and abusing these literacies, posing a threat to their sustainability.
Let's start by talking about media literacy. It is how we analyze and take in information from the media so that we can evaluate what is being presented. A skill that an individual is required to possess in order to think critically, and allow them to utilize their democratic rights decisively. It gives the user the opportunity to be a wise consumer and to be free from any bad intentions from the media. If a person lacks the ability to be media literate, he is more likely to become a victim of fake news spreading in the media, which poses a threat to that person.

Let us now define information literacy. It is how we perceive information and how we will effectively access, locate, assess, and apply it. It is a necessary ability to have in order to maximize our resources and avoid receiving misleading information. It provides the user with the opportunity to think critically, evaluate, and make use of digital tools. An individual lacking the ability to be media literate, then he is more likely to use false information and fail to maximize his resources.

Finally, let us define technological literacy. It is the ability of a person to access and communicate successfully using new media such as the Internet. In an age where technology is nearly ubiquitous, we must be technologically literate in order to be aware of our surroundings and to use digital devices and platforms. Technology allows us to complete our tasks more easily, effectively, and efficiently. If a person is unable to use technology, he will struggle to complete his assignment and will have to turn to more drastic options.

The threat that all of these faces is user misuse and abuse; some users are dissatisfied with what they have, so they go to discover more, which leads to a negative outcome. Some people purposefully distribute fake news on channels such as social media, hoping that people who are not media literate will fall for their schemes. This is why it is necessary to be literate in all aspects in order to prevent yourself from being a victim of devastating individuals.

Thoman. E. 10 Benefits of Media Literacy Education. Retrieved from: https://www.medialit.org/reading-room/10-benefits-media-literacy-education

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Internet: The Boon and The Bane of the Information Age

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Internet: The Boon and The Bane of the Information Age

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The Internet Revolution has brought about a time of change, particularly for youngsters. The Internet is now widely available and affordable thanks to significant progress. The number of students using the Internet has significantly increased. For research or schoolwork, chat rooms, e-mail, and other things, people use the Internet. Most teenagers, whether at home or school, have some access to the internet. You may obtain knowledge on any subject on the Internet, which is a vast informational resource. Along with keeping in touch with your loved ones, it is the perfect location to learn new things. Additionally, it is a multi-tool having uses in every sphere of our existence. Despite its many benefits, the Internet is nevertheless seen as a dangerous place for students since there is a potential they could become the victims of crime.

When used to give students educational possibilities depending on their skills and interests, the Internet offers one of its biggest advantages. Numerous particular learning advantages, including independent learning, the development of research skills, access to resources, etc., are provided by its use in education.

The internet is a strong source of information and a productive tool for communication. The capacity to acquire relevant and trustworthy information is sharpened by conducting online searches, which can aid in the development of learning skills. The abilities of separating fact from opinion and studying subjectivity and objectivity are established and refined as different sites have different viewpoints on subjects. The Internet also promotes social ideals and standards because it is governed by Protocols, which are standards. Understanding the rules-based society in which they live is possible through learning these protocols and how to abide by them. This encourages kids to appreciate and act decently towards others.

Teenagers in general spend all of their free time on computers. On the internet, they surf, engage in online gaming, chat, and instant messaging. These activities are typically not productive. Poor grades are the eventual effect as schoolwork begins to suffer. The internet should not be used excessively because it is bad for the body and the psyche. Lack of focus, disinterest in other physical activities, etc. cause a weak body and mind that is vulnerable to a number of health issues.

Both good and harmful things can and will be done over the Internet. It's time to see how widely it will be exploited and used. Today's youth use the Internet on a daily basis, thus it cannot be eliminated. Instead, there is a need to choose a middle road where awareness of both its negative impacts and its beneficial potential is shared constructively on a large platform.

Is Internet a Boon or Bane for Students? Retrieved from https://targetstudy.com/articles/is-internet-a-boon-or-bane-for-students.html

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Netiquette refers to rules that tell users how to behave and communicate with others when interacting online. These rules can be used in a variety of online contexts, including email, message boards, and video chats. Since both entail respectfully engaging with others, practising netiquette is similar to practising etiquette.

A person who spends a lot of time online is known as a "netizen," a slang term created by fusing the words "Internet" and "citizen." The majority of us who use the Internet for diverse purposes in our lives can be characterised by the term.

Respecting other online users can be ensured by adhering to netiquette, or internet etiquette. These rules are crucial when communicating with people online for a variety of reasons, including social networking, online learning, and distant work. Learning proper netiquette may improve your communication skills and increase your ability to network online. Additionally, practising netiquette will help you interact with people in a productive way.

On the Internet, there are a lot of materials available for netiquette. Some go into great detail. Some people only talk about the fundamental ideas, however there is consensus on many points.

From one domain to another, netiquette differs. When you first enter a new area of cyberspace, explore the area, spend some time reading the archives or listening to the talk, and then go. Follow the lead of those present and observe how they behave before joining in. So now, we have domains for organisations like the government, schools, and others.

We are able to transcend our physical selves because we are netizens. We may interact with other netizens in real-time, no matter where they are in the world, thanks to our virtual selves, which enable us to be engaged members of online communities of practise and interest. We use materials that are accessible on the web as netizens. We reshare them with our fellow internet users, and occasionally we produce these resources ourselves and distribute them to other internet users. As it is, we internet users have transformed into publishers by being given the opportunity to express ourselves. However, such power should only be used responsibly and cautiously.

What is Netiquette? Retrieved from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/netiquettes

What is Netizen? Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/netizen

Bandalaria, M, dP. Retrieved from https://networks.upou.edu.ph/4338/netizens-and-the-netiquette/

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Think critically! Click Wisely

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It’s obvious to any student with a cell phone that social media is taking our generation by storm. Students who use YouTube, Instagram, Twitch and other platforms to express themselves demonstrate the beneficial effects of social media, but it is important to be wary of the consequences of overuse as well. Responsibly managing your social media use allows you to have the best of both worlds.

Everywhere you look you see people with their heads down staring at a bright screen, often consumed with the endless communication, information and entertainment that an electronic device provides.  Cell phones, tablets, smart watches and computers are everywhere!

Kids and teenagers growing up in this digital age are learning how to use technology at a huge rate of speed.  When used appropriately, there are so many positive benefits that come with technology and using social media.

The Oxford Reference defines social media as “websites and applications that enable users to create and share content or to participate in social networking.”  There are many social media platforms that teenagers use, but some of the most popular among that age group include Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, Tik Tok and Twitter. Facebook, Skype, Pinterest, Vine and Linked In are other popular social media sites that people of various age groups use.

One of the best benefits of social media is it allows people to easily stay connected through messaging, video chats or photographs.  It can provide opportunities to meet people from all areas of the world without even leaving the comfort of your own home.  Social media also provides so many platforms to express feelings, thoughts and opinions. It’s a great way to explore and learn more about various interests and stay informed about current events.

Along with the benefits of social media, risks and negative consequences can arise.  Too much social media use can result in lower interaction with family, friends, or co-workers.  Exposure to inappropriate content like violence and pornography is highly possible without the use of monitoring and parental control applications.  Inappropriate behavior such as bullying, slander, or sending/posting risky pictures can happen because a social media user has a false sense of security behind the screen.

Lack of sleep or interrupted sleep is another negative side effect of too much social media use.  Some people report feeling anxious or depressed after using social media. Pictures and stories often depict someone’s “best of the best” or “highlight reel.”  The pressure to keep posts engaging, picture-perfect and time-worthy can add to feelings of anxiety.

Young people have the ability to be in contact with friends all the time, thus leaving them with a sense of no privacy and “too connected” with peers.  Despite the constant ability to stay in contact, they can also feel lonely at the same time. Due to apps that share your location or show if a message has been read, it can be apparent if someone is ignoring or not including you.

After the invention of blogging, social media began to explode in popularity. Sites like MySpace and LinkedIn gained prominence in the early 2000s, and sites like Photobucket and Flickr facilitated online photo sharing. YouTube came out in 2005, creating an entirely new way for people to communicate and share with each other across great distances.
By 2006, Facebook and Twitter both became available to users throughout the world. Thank youu! Have a great day!

E. Tatum (2019) retrieved from https://www.mvnews.org/using-social-media-responsibly-is-good/

K. Vicki (2020) retrieved form https://youthfirstinc.org/using-social-media-responsibly/

Stephanie (2018) retrieved from https://ruosmblog.wordpress.com/