https://padlet.com/230121926/47mh7lf8i4b9xbxu Ndumiso-230121926 en-us 2023-05-10 20:59:06 UTC 2023-06-13 23:56:32 UTC hello@padlet.com 230121926 https://padlet.com/230121926/47mh7lf8i4b9xbxu/wish/2589319681 Ndumiso-230121926

Social media is a very influential aspect which each and everyone can actually shape their sense of identity as it broadens our horizons and help us see things from different angles nonetheless it is our responsibility to use it in a advantageous and wise way.

Social media can have both positive and negative effects on the youth which may include the following 

- Social media can be a great tool for connecting with others and building relationships, especially for those who may be isolated or have difficulty making friends in person.I am the testament of that Indeed social media can build friendships because I remember when I arrived at university, it was very ,very difficult for me to make friends as a result I took a number from the 1st years’ Whatsapp and initiated a friendship with a student from Joburg , we scheduled a time to meet and we built a friend till this day.
- Social media can be a source of information and education, with many young people using social media to learn about different topics.

And that has been shown during Covid-19 when we could not have contact classes, we had to adjust and initiate online learning.I am talking from experience because I remember 2020 when I was doing grade 10 , having new subjects required a lot of support so I shared my number on Facebook so I could be added on a Whatsapp group where we discussed Math and Science content, it really worked for me because I couldn’t have understood those concepts without that assistance and the fact that it was more like a peer learning programme .

- Social media can provide opportunities for self-expression, creativity, and sharing of ideas and opinions, which can be empowering and help young people develop a sense of identity.

Negative Effects:
- Social media can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, particularly if young people are constantly comparing themselves to others or facing cyberbullying.
- Social media can be addictive, leading to excessive screen time and potentially interfering with schoolwork or other activities.
- Social media can expose young people to harmful content, including violence, sexual content, and hate speech.As much as  Social media can have both positive and negative effects on mental health. On the one hand, it can provide a sense of community and support, but on the other hand, it can also contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Overall, social media can have significant effects on the well-being and development of young people. It is important for parents, educators, and mental health professionals to understand these effects and work with young people to promote healthy and responsible social media use and it important for individuals to be aware of the potential effects and to ise these platforms in a way that is healthy and balanced.

You are more than welcome to share your stories if you once got assistance from Social Media or rather comment on how you see Social Media from your side.]]> 2023-05-13 05:11:00 UTC https://padlet.com/230121926/47mh7lf8i4b9xbxu/wish/2589319681