body of essay about social media

Social Media Essay: A Full Guide

In an era where a single tweet can spark a global conversation and an Instagram post can redefine trends, it's fascinating to note that the average person spends approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes per day on social media platforms. That's more than 900 hours a year devoted to scrolling, liking, and sharing in the vast digital landscape. As we find ourselves deeply intertwined in the fabric of online communities, the significance of understanding and articulating the dynamics of social media through the written word, particularly in an essay on social media, becomes increasingly apparent. So, why embark on the journey of crafting an essay on this ubiquitous aspect of modern life? Join us as we unravel the layers of social media's impact, explore its nuances, and discover the art of conveying these insights through the written form.

Short Description

In this article, we'll explore how to write an essay on social media and the purpose behind these narratives while also delving into a myriad of engaging topics. From the heartbeat of online connections to the rhythm of effective storytelling, we'll guide you organically through the process, sharing insights on structure, approach, and the creative essence that makes each essay unique. And if you're seeking assistance, pondering - ' I wish I could find someone to write my essay ,' we'll also furnish example essays to empower you to tackle such tasks independently.

Why Write a Social Media Essay

In a world buzzing with hashtags, filters, and the constant hum of notifications, the idea of sitting down to craft an essay about social media might seem as out of place as a cassette tape in a streaming era. Yet, there's something oddly therapeutic, almost rebellious, about pausing in the midst of 280-character wisdom to delve deeper into the why behind our digital existence.

So, what is social media essay, and what's the purpose of writing it? Well, it's more than just an exercise in intellectual curiosity. It's a personal journey, a reflective pause in the ceaseless scroll. While writing the essay, we gain the power to articulate the intangible, to breathe life into the pixels that dance across our screens. It's an opportunity to make sense of the chaos, to find meaning in the memes, and perhaps, in the process, to uncover a bit more about ourselves in this digital wilderness.

Let's face it - our online lives are a fast-paced carousel of memes, viral challenges, and carefully curated selfies. So, why bother wrestling with words and paragraphs in a world where brevity is king? The answer lies in the art of unraveling the digital tapestry that envelops us.

There's a magic in articulating the dance between the profound and the mundane that occurs within the confines of our screens. An essay becomes a lens, focusing our attention on the subtleties of social media dynamics – the inside jokes that become global phenomena, the ripple effect of a well-timed retweet, and the silent conversations unfolding in the comment sections.

6 Key Tips for Crafting a Social Media Essay

Now that we've set sail into the realm of essays on the digital landscape, it's only fair to equip ourselves with a few trusty tools for the journey. Think of these tips as your compass, helping you navigate the sometimes choppy, often unpredictable waters of crafting an essay on social media.

Embrace Your Authentic Voice: Just like your favorite Instagram filter can't hide the real you, your essay should reflect your genuine thoughts and feelings. Don't be afraid to let your unique voice shine through – whether it's witty, contemplative, or a delightful blend of both.
Dive into the Details: Social media isn't just about the grand gestures; it's the small, often unnoticed details that weave the most compelling narratives. Explore the minutiae of your online experiences – the peculiar hashtags, the quirky bios, and the unexpected connections that leave a lasting imprint.
Craft Your Hashtag Haiku: Much like poetry, brevity can be your ally in social media essays. Think of hashtags as haikus – succinct, impactful, and capable of conveying a universe of meaning in just a few characters. Choose them wisely.
Engage with the Comments Section: The comments section is the lively pub where digital conversations unfold. Dive in, clink glasses, and engage with the diverse perspectives swirling around. It's in these interactions that the real magic happens – where ideas collide, evolve, and sometimes, transform.
Navigate the Memescape: Memes are the folklore of the digital age, carrying tales of humor, irony, and cultural resonance. Don't shy away from exploring the memescape in your essay. Unravel the layers, decipher the symbolism, and appreciate the humor that often holds up a mirror to society.
Be Mindful of the Clickbait Pitfalls: While clickbait might be the flashy neon sign on the digital highway, it's essential to tread carefully. Ensure your essay isn't just a sensational headline but a thoughtful exploration that goes beyond the surface.

Want to Watch Your Academic Goals Take Flight?

Let us take the reins and help you soar to academic excellence!

Social Media Essay Structure

In the age of viral tweets and digital conversations, tackling the essay format is more than just stringing words together—it's about creating a roadmap. As we navigate this landscape of likes and retweets, understanding the structural foundations becomes key. So, let's cut through the noise and explore the practical aspects of how to write a social media essay that mirrors the rhythm of our online experiences.

Form an Outline

Now that we've acknowledged the importance of structure in your essay, the next step is to build a solid roadmap. Think of it like planning a road trip; you wouldn't hit the highway without a map or GPS, right? Similarly, creating an outline for your essay gives you a clear direction and ensures your thoughts flow smoothly.

So, whether you decide to order an essay online or tackle it yourself, here's a simple way to go about it:

Introduction (Where You Start):

Briefly introduce the topic.
State your social media essay thesis or main idea.
Example: 'Let's begin by introducing the impact of social media on modern communication, focusing on its role in shaping opinions and fostering connections.'

Body Paragraphs (The Journey):

Each paragraph should cover a specific social media essay argument and point.
Use examples or evidence to support your ideas.
Example: 'The first aspect we'll explore is how social media amplifies voices. For instance, hashtags like #ClimateAction mobilize a global audience around environmental issues.'

Transitions (Smooth Turns):

Guide your readers from one point to the next.
Ensure a logical flow between paragraphs.
Example: 'Having discussed the amplification of voices, let's now shift our focus to the influence of social media in spreading information.'

Counter Arguments (Addressing Detours):

Acknowledge different perspectives.
Counter Arguments with evidence or reasoning.
Example: 'While social media can be a powerful tool for connectivity, critics argue that it also contributes to the spread of misinformation. Let's explore this counterargument and analyze its validity.'

Conclusion (The Destination):

Summarize your main points.
Restate your thesis and leave a lasting impression.
Example: 'In conclusion, social media serves as both a bridge and a battleground of ideas. Understanding its nuances is crucial in navigating this digital landscape.'

Creating an outline for your essay not only streamlines the writing process but also ensures your readers embark on a clear and organized journey through your insights on social media. If you're exploring more options, you might even want to buy thesis for more convenience.

Make a Social Media Essay Introduction

Begin your introduction by presenting a concise overview of the key theme or topic you're addressing. Clearly state the main purpose or argument of your essay, giving readers a roadmap for what to expect. Integrate social media essay hooks like a relevant statistic, quote, or provocative question to capture attention.

For instance, if your essay is about the impact of social media on personal relationships, you might start by mentioning a statistic on the percentage of couples who met online.

Social Media Essay Body Paragraph

Structure each social media essay body paragraph around a specific aspect of your chosen topic. Start with a clear topic sentence that encapsulates the main idea of the paragraph. Provide concrete examples, data, or case studies to support your points and strengthen your argument. Maintain a logical flow between paragraphs by using effective transitions.

If your essay focuses on the positive effects of social media on business marketing, dedicate a paragraph to showcasing successful campaigns and how they leveraged different platforms.

Social Media Essay Conclusion

In your conclusion, succinctly recap the main points discussed in the body paragraphs. Reinforce your thesis statement and emphasize its broader implications. Rather than introducing new information, use the conclusion to leave a lasting impression on your readers. Consider prompting further thought or suggesting practical applications of your findings.

For instance, if your essay examined the impact of social media on political discourse, conclude by encouraging readers to critically evaluate the information they encounter online and actively engage in constructive conversations.

Proofread and Revise

In the process of writing social media essay, proofreading and revising are indispensable steps that can significantly enhance the overall quality of your work. Begin by meticulously checking for grammatical errors, ensuring that your sentences are clear and concise. Pay attention to the flow of your ideas, confirming that each paragraph seamlessly transitions into the next.

During the proofreading phase, keep an eye out for any inconsistencies in tone or style. This is an opportunity to refine your language and ensure that it aligns with the intended voice of your essay. Look for repetitive phrases or unnecessary words that might detract from the clarity of your message.

As you revise, consider the effectiveness of your hook. Does it still resonate as strongly as you intended? Can it be tweaked to better captivate your audience? A compelling hook sets the tone for your entire essay, so invest time in perfecting this crucial element.

Furthermore, don't hesitate to seek feedback from peers or mentors. Another perspective can provide valuable insights into areas that may need improvement. Fresh eyes often catch nuances that the writer might overlook. Alternatively, you might also explore the option to buy coursework for additional support.

Social Media Essay Topics

In the vast realm of social media, where every like and share contributes to the digital narrative, choosing the right essay topic becomes a crucial compass for exploration. Let's explore thought-provoking topics that not only capture attention but also invite insightful discussions on the intricacies of our interconnected world.

Impact on Society:

The Role of Social Media in Redefining Friendship and Social Bonds
How Has TikTok Influenced Global Pop Culture Trends?
The Impact of Social Media on Political Polarization
Social Media and Mental Health: Exploring the Connection
The Evolution of Language on Social Media Platforms
Examining the Influence of Social Media on Body Image
Fake News and Its Proliferation on Social Media
Social Media and the Rise of Influencer Marketing
The Intersection of Social Media and Dating Apps
Has Social Media Narrowed or Expanded Cultural Perspectives?
The Role of Social Media in Fostering Global Communities
The Influence of Social Media on Consumer Behavior
Analyzing the Impact of Social Media on News Consumption
The Rise of 'Cancel Culture' on Social Media Platforms
Social Media and Its Role in Spreading Disinformation
The Impact of Social Media on Language and Communication Skills
Social Media and its Influence on Political Movements
The Relationship Between Social Media Use and Sleep Patterns
Social Media and the Accessibility of Educational Resources
The Cultural Significance of Memes on Social Media

Individual and Identity:

The Impact of Social Media Addiction on Personal Relationships and Intimacy
Self-Expression and Authenticity on Social Networking Sites
Social Media and Its Influence on Teenage Identity Formation
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Beauty Standards
Navigating Online Dating and Relationships in the Social Media Age
The Impact of Social Media on Parenting Styles
Social Media and Its Influence on Body Positivity Movements
The Perception of Success: Social Media's Role in Achievement Culture
Social Media and the Construction of Online Persona vs. Real Self
Social Media and Its Influence on Lifestyle Choices
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Career Aspirations
The Intersection of Mental Health Narratives and Social Media
The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem and Well-Being
How Social Media Influences Gender Identity and Expression
Exploring the Concept of Digital Detox in the Social Media Era
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Cultural Identity
The Connection Between Social Media and Impulse Buying
Social Media and Its Influence on Dietary Choices
Balancing Privacy and Self-Disclosure on Social Media
The Impact of Social Media on Friendships Over Time

Digital Activism and Advocacy:

The Effectiveness of Hashtag Movements in Promoting Social Change
Social Media and Its Role in Amplifying Underrepresented Voices
The Impact of Social Media on Global Environmental Activism
Online Activism: The Evolution from Clicktivism to Concrete Action
The Role of Social Media in Advancing LGBTQ+ Rights
Social Media and Its Impact on Anti-Racism Movements
Analyzing the Challenges of Digital Advocacy in Authoritarian Regimes
Social Media and the Global Fight Against Cyberbullying
The Intersection of Social Media and Mental Health Advocacy
Examining the Role of Social Media in Humanitarian Campaigns
Crowdsourcing for Change: How Social Media Fuels Fundraising
The Challenges of Digital Activism in the Age of Information Overload
Social Media and Its Impact on Disability Advocacy
The Role of Social Media in Combating Gender-Based Violence
Online Petitions and Their Influence on Policy Change
Exploring the Intersection of Social Media and Animal Rights Activism
The Impact of Social Media on Indigenous Rights Advocacy
Digital Advocacy and Its Role in Healthcare Reform
Social Media's Influence on Youth Activism
Navigating Challenges in Allyship on Social Media Platforms

Privacy and Ethics:

The Implications of Facial Recognition Technology on Social Media
Social Media Platforms and the Ethics of User Data Collection
The Role of Social Media in Combating Deepfakes
Balancing Freedom of Speech and Moderation on Social Media
Social Media and the Challenges of Regulating Disinformation
Ethical Considerations in Targeted Advertising on Social Media
The Impact of Social Media Algorithms on User Behavior
Social Media and the Right to Privacy: Where to Draw the Line?
The Influence of Social Media on Political Manipulation and Propaganda
Data Security Concerns in the Era of Social Media
The Ethics of Social Media Influencer Marketing
Social Media and Its Role in Combating Cyberbullying
The Impact of Social Media on Juror Bias in Legal Cases
Exploring the Ethics of Incorporating Social Media Usage in Hiring Decisions by Employers
Social Media and Its Role in Combating Hate Speech
Balancing Personalization with Privacy in Social Media Websites
The Influence of Social Media on Public Perceptions of Law Enforcement
Social Media and the Challenges of Content Moderation
Addressing Online Harassment: Ethical Considerations for Platforms
The Responsibility of Social Media Platforms in Protecting User Privacy

Future Trends and Innovations:

The Future of Social Media: Emerging Platforms and Trends
The Role of Augmented Reality (AR) in Shaping the Future of Social Media
Virtual Reality (VR) and Its Potential Impact on Social Media Engagement
The Rise of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and Social Media
Social Media and the Evolution of Live Streaming Culture
The Impact of Voice Search and Voice Assistants on Social Media
Social Commerce: The Future of E-Commerce Through Social Media
Exploring the Influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Social Media
The Role of Blockchain Technology in Enhancing Social Media Security
Social Media and the Integration of Virtual Influencers
The Future of Social Media Content: Short-Form vs. Long-Form
The Influence of User-Generated Content on Future Social Media Trends
Social Media and the Adoption of 5G Technology
The Potential of Gamification in Shaping Social Media Engagement
The Impact of Social Media on the Future of Work and Remote Collaboration
Exploring the Relationship Between Social Media and Mental Health Apps
The Influence of User Privacy Concerns on Future Social Media Developments
Social Media and the Role of Ephemeral Content in Communication
The Intersection of Social Media and Virtual Events
Predicting the Next Wave of Social Media Influencer Trends

If these topics piqued your interest, you'll likely find persuasive essay topics equally fascinating! Dive into our article for a variety of options that might just spark your curiosity and inspire your next writing venture.

Social Media Essay Example

Crafting a standout essay isn't just about the words; it's about weaving a narrative that grabs your reader's attention. Before we say our goodbyes, why not take a peek at our sample essays? Our seasoned writers poured their expertise into creating persuasive pieces, offering you insights into both how to write an essay on social media and the kind of polished language that can elevate your own writing.

Wrapping Up

As our college essay service experts conclude this article, we've journeyed through the emotional complexities, societal reflections, and transformative potentials embedded in our digital narratives. An essay on social media is a portal into the intricate dance of our online lives, urging introspection, empathy, and an awareness of diverse stories. Let your essays authentically reflect, sparking conversations that enrich our collective experience in this ever-evolving digital realm.

Ready to Take Your Writing Skills to the Next Level?

Our expert writers can help you create something truly unique

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Verify originality of an essay

Get ideas for your paper

Find top study documents

Social Media Essay Writing Guide & Example Topics

Updated 17 Jun 2024

Living in modern age where majority of social communications take place online, social media has a great impact on how people interact. Capturing millions of users from all over the world, social media became one of the most popular communication means and information sharing. Starting from news reports, family photos and up to large networks of like-minded professionals, it is a part of life not only for younger generation but for all people with computers, tablet or irreplaceable mobile.

As a result, it is important to research this subject and have a say about it! Social media essay can speak of both positive and negative effects, make strong arguments or call to action. In our essay writing guide provided by our online essay writing service , we will focus on popular online platforms, essay on popular social networks structure, and list social media essay topic examples to inspire and motivate you!

Definition & Most Popular Social Media Networks

When students ask our writers about what is social media essay, it is difficult to give a definite answer because this subject is as simple as it is controversial. Some people may see its benefits, while others may state that it has a negative influence on modern youth. As a result, there are numerous ideas to choose from, depending on the style of writing. For example:

Persuasive Social Media Essay . Such an essay is defined by persuasion about the impacts of social media or statements about cases related to social networks.
Argumentative Essay on Social Media . It is defined by strong argumentation. An opinion is made clear with an explanation, good sources, and analysis.
Personal Reflection on Social Media . In such kind of an essay, speak of personal experience, or make a review from one’s personal viewpoint.
Speech on Social Media . Such an essay is usually shorter and is aimed at particular aspects of networking. Finding a good speech topic may be difficult, so it is good to mind topics rules and structure.

If you focus on a particular site for online interaction, make sure that it fits one of the essay styles above. In practice, it means that if writing about Twitter, it is best to mention why and how it is used by politicians and celebrities. Let us review some popular networks in brief:

Launched first in 2004, Facebook became one of the most popular social media networks for both young and old. Writing about Facebook, make sure to mention cultural, political, economic, advertising, and even environmental aspects because Facebook is not only a place where people spend hours daily but a powerful power resource.

With 9 years since its birth, Instagram is a photo and video-sharing media platform for mobile devices. Writing Instagram related essay, remember to mention how it impacts young people and talk of privacy issues, if relevant.

Definitely, most popular video hosting social media network. From politicians and musicians to travelers and protesters - it is all in YouTube videos. Writing an argumentative essay, think of whether this video platform is a voice of freedom or an archive under clever guidance.

Available in 22 languages, Snapchat is a unique messaging platform with various multimedia features like Live Stories from remote parts of the world and amazing news channels, based on personal preferences. A good choice to analyze when an essay speaks of positive networking impacts.

Instant news and social media network service, famous for short “tweets”. From local news to emergency situations and big political changes, Twitter is where people hear it first. Insignificant in words, yet containing great power. A voice of millions in short messages, indeed!

Read also: Reflective Essay Examples for Better Understanding

Proper Social Media Essay Structure

What makes social media essay successful is correct structure. No matter what type of an essay you are about to write, a basic outline should include :

Introduction with a hook sentence and strong thesis.
3 to 5 body paragraphs.
Conclusion and call to action, if relevant.

As students all over the United States discuss Facebook or Twitter in their essay assignments, they always struggle when brainstorming good hook sentence ideas. It is what catches attention of an audience and makes college professors continue reading with great interest. A hook sentence can be an unusual fact, an argument or even assumption about popular networking outlets that are relevant to body image and attitude. Social Media essay introduction should briefly introduce chosen topic and end up with a strong thesis statement that poses questions or states solid opinionated arguments.

Just like professional creative writers for hire , you have to brainstorm interesting and inspiring ideas for your essay to become interesting and unique. In body paragraphs, try to keep to one statement (idea) - one paragraph rule. If mentioning certain facts, support them with sources, statistics, and evidence, if applicable. Likewise, discussing negative sides, remember to mention opposite opinions as well.

Coming to final part, which is essay conclusion, sum up all discovered facts discovered and make a strong statement, simply re-phrasing. If necessary, make call to action and tell about what has to be done or make assumptions about the future of Instagram, Facebook or any other network chosen.

Read Also: 100 Social Studies Project Topics and Guidelines for Writing Social Study Essays

Need more writing assistance?

Connect with our top writers and receive a Social Media essay sample crafted to your needs.

Positive & Negative Effects of Social Media

In order to help one’s written assignment be strong, it is recommended to focus either on positive and negative effects of social media essay writing. Of course, it is possible to write of both sides, yet make sure that opinion is clear. Let us review positive and negative effects to better understand cons and pros alike.

Good things first:

Social media makes it possible for students to study online, making distance-learning possible.
Helps address important socio-cultural issues, so they become known globally.
Contributes to distribution of valuable information about environmental issues.
Acts as great source of instant news and help in emergency situations.
Networking connects people from different countries, helping diverse cultures live in peace.
Helps to connect professionals and assists them in finding each other in social groups and expert networks listing.
An impact of popular online platforms helps to avoid bias in representation of information from political oppositions and vulnerable minorities.
Promotion related to cultural works and online presence of artists and creative inventors.

Unfortunately, there are negative sides as well, including:

Privacy issues. It often seems that anything that happens instantly appears online.
Sharing of information on Facebook or Instagram can violate personal privacy.
There is a negative impact on body image among young people.
As college students spend time online, their grades drop and performance lowers.
Identity theft risks.
Excessive online interaction negatively impacts physical interaction.
There is very little to almost no control as to what information is shared on Facebook, Instagram or any other site.
Facebook and Instagram can easily become addictive and even dangerous because of constant dependence on peer pressure and bullying.

As one can see, an impact of social media essay can vary from topic to topic, which is another challenging issue that most U.S. students face, thinking of good college essay topics and strong argumentative titles.

Successful Essay Topic Examples

Let us review several good social media essay topics, so get ready to feel inspired as you look through ideas list!

The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem.
Social media's role in democratizing information.
The evolution of communication in the age of social media.
Social media as a tool for social change and activism.
The effects of social media on attention spans and learning.
Privacy concerns in the era of social media.
The trade-off between privacy and convenience on social platforms.
Social media data mining and user privacy.
The impact of social media on personal relationships and privacy.
Strategies for maintaining privacy on social media.
The correlation between social media use and mental health issues.
Social media: A cause of loneliness or a cure?
The psychological effects of social media on teenagers.
Social media addiction: Causes, symptoms, and solutions.
The role of social media in shaping our perceptions of happiness.
The transformation of marketing in the social media era.
The impact of social media on brand reputation.
Social media influencers and consumer behavior.
The role of social media in customer service and engagement.
Strategies for effective social media marketing.
The role of social media in modern political campaigns.
Social media and the spread of misinformation.
The impact of social media on cultural norms and values.
Social media as a platform for artistic expression.
The role of social media in emergency responses and crisis management.
The ethics of social media algorithms and user manipulation.
Cyberbullying and ethical responsibilities of social media platforms.
The moral implications of social media censorship.
Ethical considerations in social media content creation.
The responsibility of social media users in the digital age.
Emerging trends in social media and their potential impacts.
The future of social media: Integration into everyday life.
Virtual reality and social media: The next frontier.
The potential of social media platforms in education.
The sustainability of social media platforms and user engagement.
Social media and the construction of personal identity.
The influence of social media on youth culture and identity.
Social media and the blurring lines between public and private selves.
The role of social media in community building and identity formation.
Social media personas vs. real-life identities.
Tackling the challenge of fake news on social media.
The impact of social media on interpersonal communication skills.
Social media and the phenomenon of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
The challenge of maintaining authenticity on social media.
The digital divide: Social media access and inequality.
The role of social media in the rise of e-sports.
Social media and its impact on the music industry.
The influence of social media on fashion and consumer trends.
Social media platforms as tools for learning and education.
The role of social media in fostering global connections and understanding.

Note: These are only most basic topic ideas to help you choose one that fits best. Remember that any topic can be chosen as long as it has strong argumentation and voices an opinion. It is important to always include sources and statistics that backup specified facts. If a grading rubric requires Works Cited or References page, remember about in-text citing and correct references. It is as much important as getting your final draft proofread.

Writing Plagiarism-free and Excellent Essays is Possible

Now that we have a good topic for an essay and learned more about correct structure, it is time to learn how to avoid plagiarism. It is well-known that topic of online networking is filled with cliches and it is easy to get trapped when quoting someone or repeating well-known facts. As you want to come up with an excellent topic or idea, you may feel stuck or ensure that what you already wrote is good enough.

Our professional writers at EduBirdie are ready to help you feel confident and safe about this particular topic or any other written assignment subject. Just choose a quick essay writer that fits, based on subject and credentials, share your task, and control every aspect of assigned writer’s work.

Unlike many services, EduBirdie keeps entire process transparent and one pays an essay writer only when he or she is fully satisfied with a final result. There are no hidden charges and payments are fully refundable.

Turning to EduBirdie writing help, you receive :

Professional essay writers with years of experience and PhD or Master’s degrees.
Plagiarism-free papers.
Writers database, based on expertise, subject, and number of papers completed.
Free revisions.
You are always in direct contact once writer is assigned.
24/7 support.

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback.

Written by David Kidwell

David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

350+ Informative Speech Topics for Students

Table of contents Informative speech topics about Technology and Science Informative speech topics about Environment Informative spee...

Diversity essay: effective tips for expressing ideas

In today's interconnected and rapidly evolving world, the importance of diversity in all its forms cannot be overstated. From classrooms to workpla...

Join our 150K of happy users

Get original papers written according to your instructions
Save time for what matters most

An Essay About Social Media: Definition, Outline and Examples

An essay about social media is a piece of writing that explores social media’s impact, influence, and consequences on various aspects of society, such as communication, relationships, politics, mental health, culture, and more.

The essay can take on different forms, such as an argumentative essay , a cause-and-effect essay, a critical analysis, or an exploratory essay.

A good essay about social media aims to provide a well-researched and thought-provoking examination of the topic and to help readers better understand the complex nature of social media and its role in our lives.

The essay may address questions such as:

How has social media changed communication?
What are the positive and negative effects of social media on mental health?
How has social media impacted politics and public opinion?
What is the future of social media, and how will it continue to shape our lives?

Why do college students write essays about social media

College students may write an essay about social media for several reasons:

To fulfill an assignment: Many professors assign social media essays as part of a communication, media studies course, or sociology. Writing an essay on social media helps students understand the topic more deeply and grasp its impact on society.
To demonstrate critical thinking skills: Writing an essay about social media requires students to analyze the topic and form an informed opinion critically. It provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their critical thinking skills and shows that they can evaluate complex ideas and arguments.
To develop research skills: Writing an essay about social media requires students to conduct thorough research and gather information from credible sources. This helps students develop important research skills and evaluate the reliability and relevance of different sources.
To express personal views and opinions: Writing an essay about social media allows students to express their views and opinions on the topic. This can be a great opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and thoughtfulness and share their insights.
To prepare for future careers: Social media is a rapidly growing field, and many careers in marketing, advertising, public relations, journalism, and other fields require a deep understanding of the role of social media in society. Writing an essay on social media can help students prepare for these careers by better understanding the topic and its impact on the world around them.

How to write an essay about social media

Step 1: Choose a Topic Before you start writing your essay, you must choose a topic you are interested in and clearly understand. This could be a specific aspect of social media, such as its impact on mental health, or a more general overview of the pros and cons of social media.

Step 2: Research To write an effective essay about social media, gather information and data on your topic from various sources, such as books, articles, websites, and interviews. Make sure to take notes and organize your research to make it easier to reference later.

Step 3: Create an Outline An outline is a roadmap for your essay about social media and will help you organize your thoughts and ideas. A standard essay outline includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Step 4: Write the Introduction In the introduction of your essay about social media, provide background information on social media and introduce your thesis statement. A thesis statement is a sentence that states your argument and sets the direction of your essay.

Step 5: Write the Body Paragraphs The body paragraphs are the main part of your essay, where you will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of social media, its impact on society, and other relevant topics. Each body paragraph should have a topic sentence, supporting evidence, and a conclusion.

Step 6: Write the Conclusion The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis. It should also provide a final thought or call to action, encouraging the reader to think critically about social media and its impact on society.

Step 7: Edit and Revise Once you have completed your first draft, take some time to revise and edit your essay. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, and ensure your ideas are well-organized and presented.

Step 8: Proofread Proofread your essay one last time to catch any mistakes you may have missed in the previous steps. This will help to ensure that your essay is well-written and error-free.

Essay about social media: outline example

I. Introduction

Definition of social media A brief history of social media Importance of social media in today’s world II. Advantages of social media

Connectivity and communication Access to information Improved marketing and advertising Increased global exposure and reach Ability to participate in social movements and activism III. Disadvantages of social media

Cyberbullying and online harassment Addiction and decreased productivity Spread of misinformation and fake news Decreased privacy and security Impacts on mental health and self-esteem IV. Social media and its impact on society

Influence on politics and elections Changes in the way we interact and communicate Increase in consumerism and materialism Impact on journalism and news media Effects on personal relationships and communication skills V. Conclusion

Recap of the advantages and disadvantages of social media Final thoughts on the role and impact of social media in society Call to action for the responsible and mindful use of social media

Example 1: Short social media essay

Social media is a term that refers to the various platforms and websites that allow individuals to communicate, share information and content, and connect with others on the internet. With the rise of social media, the way people communicate, interact and consume information has dramatically changed. Overall, Social media has changed the way we communicate, access information, and interact with others, but its impact on society is both positive and negative, highlighting the need for responsible and mindful use. One of the most significant advantages of social media is the ease of connectivity and communication. Social media has brought people from all over the world together, making it possible to form online communities and interact with others who share similar interests (Lin et al., 2021). This has been especially beneficial for individuals who live in isolated areas or have mobility issues, as social media provides a way to stay connected and engaged with others. In addition, social media has provided unprecedented access to information. The internet has become a vast library of knowledge available to anyone with an internet connection. With the help of social media, people can access the latest news, events, and trends from around the world and learn about various topics and issues from diverse perspectives. However, social media also has its negative aspects. One of the most significant drawbacks is the spread of misinformation and fake news. The ease of creating and sharing content online has led to an increase in misleading information, which can have far-reaching consequences, particularly in politics and public opinion (Kuss & Griffiths, 2017). Additionally, social media can be addictive and can negatively impact productivity, as people spend hours browsing and scrolling through their feeds. Social media has also had a significant impact on the way we interact with one another. The anonymity provided by the internet has led to an increase in online harassment and cyberbullying, which can be particularly damaging to young people’s mental health ()Lin et al., 2021; Kuss & Grifffiths, 2017). Moreover, social media has decreased privacy and security, as personal information can be easily shared and spread online. In conclusion, social media has been both a blessing and a curse for society. On the one hand, it has revolutionized how people communicate, providing a platform for global connectivity and access to information. On the other hand, it has also led to an increase in misinformation, cyberbullying, and privacy concerns. As social media continues to evolve, it is important to find a balance between its benefits and drawbacks and to use it responsibly and mindfully. References

Kuss, D. J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2017). Social networking sites and addiction: Ten lessons learned. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(3), 311.
Lin, L. Y., Sidani, J. E., Shensa, A., Radovic, A., Miller, E., Colditz, J. B., Hoffman, B. L., Giles, L. M., & Primack, B. A. (2021). Association between social media use and depression among US young adults. Depression and Anxiety, 33(4), 323–331.

P.S: Click here if you need help with your social media essay

Example 2: 1000 + words Essay About Social Media

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting us to people and information from around the world. With the rise of platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, social media has transformed the way we communicate, share information, and consume media (Statista, 2021). This essay, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of social media, as well as its impact on society. The overaching assertion is that by understanding the complex role that social media plays in our lives, we can begin to use these platforms in a more responsible and mindful way, ensuring that we are maximizing their benefits while minimizing their negative effects. Advantages of social media Connectivity and communication Social media has made access to information easier and more convenient than ever before. News, entertainment, and educational content are readily available through social media platforms, providing users with a wide range of perspectives and viewpoints. Social media has also made it easier for individuals to access information that would have previously been difficult to find or obtain (Gershon, 2019). For example, people can now easily find information about medical conditions, research studies, and government policies, all of which can be used to make informed decisions about their health, education, and politics. Improved marketing and advertising Social media has revolutionized the way companies market their products and services, enabling them to reach a wider audience and target specific demographics. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have sophisticated advertising algorithms that allow companies to target users based on their interests, location, and behavior (Gershon, 2019). This has made advertising more effective and efficient, resulting in higher engagement and conversion rates. Social media has also enabled small businesses and entrepreneurs to reach customers without the need for expensive marketing campaigns, making it easier to compete with larger corporations. Increased global exposure and reach Social media has given individuals and organizations global exposure, allowing them to reach audiences they would not have been able to reach otherwise. Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram have been used by celebrities and public figures to build their brands and reach a wider audience (Pew Research Center, 2021). Social media has also been used by activists and social movements to raise awareness about issues and mobilize support across the globe. For example, the #MeToo movement, which started as a hashtag on social media, has become a global movement that has led to significant changes in the way society views sexual harassment and assault. Ability to participate in social movements and activism Social media has given individuals the power to participate in social and political movements, making it easier for people to voice their opinions and take action on issues they care about (Mesch, 2018). Social media has been used to organize protests, raise awareness about issues, and mobilize support for causes. It has also given marginalized groups a platform to share their experiences and perspectives, enabling them to demand change and hold those in power accountable. Disadvantages of social media Cyberbullying and online harassment While social media has many benefits, it also has several disadvantages. One of the most significant drawbacks is cyberbullying and online harassment. Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for bullying and harassment, with individuals using anonymity to attack and intimidate others. This can have severe consequences for the victim, including depression, anxiety, and in extreme cases, suicide (Mesch ,2018). Cyberbullying has become a significant concern, with one study finding that 59% of U.S. teens have experienced some form of online harassment (Pew Reserach , 2021). Addiction and decreased productivity Social media can be highly addictive, with users spending hours scrolling through their feeds and engaging with content. This addiction can have detrimental effects on productivity, with individuals spending less time on work or other important activities. Studies have shown that social media addiction can lead to a decrease in academic performance, work productivity, and overall well-being. Spread of misinformation and fake news Another disadvantage of social media is the spread of misinformation and fake news. With the ease of sharing content on social media, it has become easy for false information to be disseminated to a wide audience quickly. This can have severe consequences, as false information can influence people’s beliefs and behaviors, leading to harmful outcomes. The spread of fake news has been a significant concern, with social media companies facing criticism for not doing enough to combat it. Decreased privacy and security Social media has also led to a decrease in privacy and security, with users’ personal information often being collected and shared without their consent. Social media platforms collect vast amounts of data about their users, including their location, interests, and online behavior. This information can be used for targeted advertising, but it can also be used for nefarious purposes, such as identity theft or cyber attacks. Impacts on mental health and self-esteem Social media has been linked to several negative impacts on mental health and self-esteem. Studies have shown that excessive social media use can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Social media has also been linked to negative body image and low self-esteem, with individuals comparing themselves to unrealistic and idealized images presented on social media platforms (Pew Research Center, 2021). Social media and its impact on society Influence on politics and elections Social media has had a significant impact on politics and elections, with candidates and parties using social media to reach and engage with voters. Social media has enabled political campaigns to reach a wider audience, mobilize support, and fundraise (Tufekci, 2018). Social media has also been used to spread propaganda and false information, leading to concerns about its impact on the democratic process. Changes in the way we interact and communicate Social media has transformed the way we interact and communicate with others, with many individuals relying on social media platforms as their primary means of communication. Social media has enabled individuals to connect with people across the globe, but it has also led to a decrease in face-to-face interactions. This can have significant consequences, as face-to-face interactions are crucial for building strong relationships and developing social skills. Increase in consumerism and materialism Social media has contributed to an increase in consumerism and materialism, with individuals being exposed to a constant stream of advertisements and product promotions. Social media platforms have become virtual marketplaces, with individuals being bombarded with messages that encourage them to buy more and consume more. Impact on journalism and news media Social media has also had a significant impact on journalism and news media, with many individuals turning to social media platforms for their news and information. While social media has enabled citizen journalism and given a platform to marginalized voices, it has also led to the spread of misinformation and fake news. Social media has also led to a decrease in traditional news media outlets, with many newspapers and TV stations struggling to compete with social media platforms (Tandoc et al., 2018). Effects on personal relationships and communication skills Finally, social media has had significant effects on personal relationships and communication skills. While social media has enabled individuals to connect with people across the globe, it has also led to a decrease in the quality of interpersonal relationships (Pew Research Center, 2021). Many individuals rely on social media for their social interactions, leading to a decrease in face-to-face interactions and the development of social skills. Additionally, social media has enabled individuals to present a curated and idealized version of themselves, leading to a lack of authenticity and trust in personal relationships. Conclusion In conclusion, social media has become an integral part of our lives, with many individuals relying on social media platforms for communication, information, and entertainment. While social media has many advantages, it also has several significant disadvantages, including cyberbullying, addiction, spread of misinformation, decreased privacy, and negative impacts on mental health and self-esteem. Social media has also had a significant impact on society, influencing politics and elections, changing the way we interact and communicate, contributing to consumerism and materialism, and affecting journalism and news media. As we continue to navigate the complex world of social media, it is crucial to be mindful and responsible in our use of these platforms, ensuring that we are using them to their fullest potential while minimizing the negative impacts. By doing so, we can continue to enjoy the benefits of social media while mitigating its negative effects. References Statista. (2021). Number of social media users worldwide from 2010 to 2026 (in billions). https://www.statista.com/statistics/278414/number-of-worldwide-social-network-users/ Pew Research Center. (2021). Social media fact sheet. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/social-media/ Tufekci, Z. (2018). Twitter and tear gas: The power and fragility of networked protest. Yale University Press. Mesch, G. S. (2018). Social media and social support. In J. Wright (Ed.), International encyclopedia of the social & behavioral sciences (pp. 28–33). Elsevier. Tandoc, E. C., Jr., Lim, Z. W., & Ling, R. (2018). Defining “fake news.” Digital Journalism, 6(2), 137–153. Gershon, I. (2019). Media ideologies: A comparative study of Russian and US journalism. Cambridge University Press.

Social media essay topic ideas

Why social media has changed the way we communicate
A critical analysis of the impact of social media on mental health
How social media has affected politics and public opinion
Where social media has made the biggest impact on society
An examination of the benefits and drawbacks of social media
The role of social media in the spread of misinformation
How social media has changed the advertising industry
The impact of social media on privacy and security
Why social media can be addictive and what can be done to mitigate its negative effects
An exploration of the use of social media in education and learning.
The influence of social media on relationships and personal connections
How social media has impacted the job market and employment opportunities
The role of social media in promoting cultural exchange and understanding
An analysis of the influence of social media on popular culture
The impact of social media on traditional forms of media, such as television and print
The potential of social media for social activism and social change
How social media has changed the way we consume and share information
The impact of social media on the way we perceive and experience events
The role of social media in shaping the future of technology and communication
An examination of the ethical considerations surrounding social media and its use.
The influence of social media on fashion and beauty trends
How social media has impacted the way we perceive and experience travel
An analysis of the impact of social media on professional sports and athletics
The influence of social media on the music industry and artist promotions
The role of social media in fostering online communities and relationships
How social media has changed the way we access and consume news
An examination of the impact of social media on the way we shop and make purchasing decisions
The influence of social media on the way we view and engage with art and creativity
The impact of social media on personal branding and self-promotion
An exploration of the use of social media in crisis management and emergency response.

Essays about social media additional tips

Start with a strong thesis statement that clearly states your argument.
Use reputable sources for your research and reference them properly in your essay.
Avoid using overly technical language or overly casual language.
Use specific examples to support your argument and make your essay more relatable.
Be mindful of the tone of your essay and aim for a balanced, neutral perspective.
Avoid making broad generalizations and instead focus on specific, well-supported claims.
Consider both social media’s positive and negative aspects and provide a nuanced perspective.
Use clear, concise, and well-structured sentences and paragraphs to make your essay easy to read and understand.
Use a variety of sentence structures and avoid repeating the same sentence structure repeatedly.
End your essay with a strong conclusion summarizing your main points and providing a final thought or calls to action.

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.

Useful Resources

Dissertation Writing Services

Essay Writer For Hire

Free Essay Maker

How to Study

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

Social Media Essay: Guide to Structuring an A+ Paper

Icon Calendar 16 June 2024
Icon Page 4141 words
Icon Clock 19 min read

Social media essays resemble other academic papers and focus on a wide range of topics in various subjects. Basically, a unique trait is that such papers focus on social media, which shows their primary focus. In this case, a compelling essay should contain specific sections, like an introduction, body, and conclusion. Firstly, the Introduction entails a hook, summary of main ideas, and a strong thesis statement. Then, the body section must have several paragraphs that relate to a thesis statement. Besides, writers should split a thesis into several justifiable points to form body paragraphs. In turn, a conclusion should bring a paper to a logical closure. Hence, students need to learn how to write such compositions to meet their basic requirements and get a good response from an audience.

General Guidelines

Social media is a useful tool that continues to gain popularity today due to its features. In this case, the most famous networking platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, among others, allow users to be connected with each other, and their distance does not matter. Besides, young individuals are dominant users of such technology. Basically, these defining features make online media an exciting area of study for writing different types of essays . In this case, many scholars write essays and research papers that focus on negative and positive issues related to the continued application of this mode of communication. Moreover, such papers focus on all matters about social media and its influence on all human characteristics. Hence, because online-based communication platforms are a popular means of communication, scholars write essays and research papers concerning their relationships with human lives.

What Is a Social Media Essay and Its Purpose

According to its definition, a social media essay is a written analysis that explores the effects and significance of digital spaces in various contexts. Its main purpose for writing is to examine various facets of online platforms, their impact on society, and how they influence communication, relationships, culture, business, and even politics (Specht, 2019). In this case, typical themes include possible psychological impacts of Internet use, critical issues of privacy and data security, today’s coverage of information and misinformation, actual roles of virtual communities and networks in social movements and activism, and others. On the other hand, writers analyze and reflect on these aspects critically, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of how web platforms shape various spheres of life (Cogni, 2019). By doing so, they promote critical thinking, inform readers about the impacts, benefits, or drawbacks of this technology, and encourage thoughtful discourse on its implications for individuals and society at large. In terms of pages and words, the length of a social media essay can vary significantly depending on academic levels and specific assignment requirements, and general guidelines are:

High School

Length: 0.5-3 pages
Word Count: 100-750 words

College (Undergraduate)

Length: 3-5 pages
Word Count: 750-1,250 words

University (Advanced Undergraduate)

Length: 5-8 pages
Word Count: 1,250-2,000 words
Length: 8-20 pages
Word Count: 2,000-5,000 words
Length: 20-40 pages (or more, depending on the depth of research required)
Word Count: 5,000-10,000 words (or more)

Definitions of Key Terms

Term	Definition
Algorithm	A set of rules, codes, or calculations used by online platforms to determine the content shown to users.
Engagement	Measures the interaction between users and content, including likes, shares, comments, and views.
Influencer	An individual with a significant following on web networks who can affect opinions and behaviors.
Hashtag	A word, term, or phrase preceded by the ‘#’ symbol and used to categorize and search for corresponding content themes.
Viral	Describes content that rapidly spreads across digital platforms, gaining widespread attention.
Echo chamber	A situation where users are exposed only to information or opinions that reflect and reinforce their own.
Misinformation	False or inaccurate information spread unintentionally on Internet networks.
Disinformation	Deliberately false information spread to deceive or mislead people.
User-generated content (UGC)	Content developed and published by users rather than professional content creators or brands.
Privacy settings	Options available on online platforms that allow users to control who can see their information and activity.
Analytics	Tools and digital techniques used to measure and analyze user metrics, such as engagement and reach.
Cyberbullying	Harassment or bullying that takes place over digital devices and web platforms.
Digital activism	The use of online platforms to promote social, political, or environmental causes.
Followers	Individuals who subscribe to a user’s updates on networking platforms.
Content curation	The process of gathering, organizing, writing, and sharing relevant content.
Troll	A person who deliberately posts provocative or inflammatory comments on digital channels to elicit reactions.
Influence	The capacity to have a specific effect on a character, development, action, or behavior of someone or something via Internet networks.
Monetization	The process of earning revenue from online activities, such as through advertisements, sponsorships, or selling products.
Digital footprint	The trail of data that a user leaves behind when using the Internet, including web interactions.
Engagement rate	A metric that measures interaction levels (likes, comments, shares, etc.) when some piece of content receives, and it is relative to the number of followers.

Examples of Topics

Selecting a suitable topic is the first and most important step toward writing a good social media essay. Basically, it can be an overwhelming task for college students to develop new themes for their essays and research papers (Redman & Maples, 2017). In turn, free examples of social issues essay topics in various disciplines are:

Cultural shifts in privacy perception post-social media .
Influence of social media on modern society .
Impacts of social media on society: Progress or peril?
How does digital space influence society?
What are the influences of online environments on social relations?
Is web networking a problem or a solution?
Understanding the impact of social media on teenage self-image .
How does digital communication influence the mental well-being of teenagers?
Describe effective ways in which people use to overcome Internet addiction.
Do online environments inspire cyberbullying?
Body image perceptions and web networking influence.
Digital space and online anxiety in interpersonal relationships.
Describe some ways in which social media impacts education.
What role does online networking play in improving grades?
In what ways has digital technology changed education?
The use of educational apps for personalized learning.
Teacher-student interaction in virtual learning environments.
Gamification and its effects on learning outcomes.
Impacts of social media on companies and businesses.
How do Internet channels transform the world of business?
Has digital networking opened a new way of doing business?
Customer engagement strategies using digital platforms.
Online customer service and its impact on brand loyalty.
The influence of online marketplaces on small business growth.
Influences of social media on teen mental health .
Effects of online channels on healthy aging.
Does web interaction enable people to lead healthy lives?
Negative impacts of digital networks on mental health.
Online health communities and patient support.
Digital health interventions for preventive care.
Virtual reality and its potential impact on social media
Impacts of social media and internet algorithms on user experience .
Roles of digital environments in promoting technological innovativeness.
Is web networking used for mass surveillance?
How does online communication reflect modern technological advancement?
Augmented reality’s impact on user experience in digital platforms.

Identifying Central Themes

Students can learn if they need to write social media essays and research papers quickly. In most cases, the topics have the words “social media” (Redman & Maples, 2017). Basically, this feature distinguishes these essays from other essay topics. Moreover, such papers follow a unique essay structure that enables students to express their thoughts effectively (Cogni, 2019). Besides, one can identify different types of essays based on the kind of argument presented on a topic. In turn, to start a social media essay, writers begin with a compelling hook, provide relevant background information, and clearly state their thesis sentences. Hence, basic guidelines on how one may identify various types of social media essays are:

Argumentative Formats

An argumentative social media essay should have a strong argument. Basically, this essay’s topic should prompt a person to pick one side of a discussion and provide the necessary support (Specht, 2019). Besides, argumentative prompts require one to use facts and analysis from credible sources. In turn, one may identify these argumentative essay topics quickly since they encourage writers to give an opinion.

Persuasive Ideas

A persuasive social media essay focuses on urging readers to accept a particular belief or idea. For example, corresponding persuasive topics require students to use logical concepts to support the main argument (Redman & Maples, 2017). Besides, such themes focus on promoting critical thinking skills when dealing with a specific idea. In turn, one may identify such persuasive essay topics easily because such themes contain keywords, like “effects,” “impacts,” “causes,” and “pros and cons,” among others.

Satirical Concepts

A satirical writing style requires learners to use sarcasm when criticizing a subject. In this case, satirical social media essay topics compel writers to use irony and hyperbole elements to communicate their points (Cogni, 2019). On the other hand, students may identify such issues easily since such assignments require them to use creativity with a good sense of humor. In most cases, such topics relate to “addiction” or “isolation.”

Social Media Essay Format

Section	Description
Title	Provide a clear and unique title that reflects an assigned topic or argument.
Abstract (optional)	Write a brief summary of an essay’s content and main findings (usually 150-250 words).
Introduction	Introduce the topic.
	Provide background information or context.
	State a central thesis or main argument.
Literature Review (optional)	Overview of existing research, knowledge gap, and theories related to Internet networks.
Body Paragraph 1	Start with a single topic sentence that introduces the first main point.
	Provide supporting evidence, examples, or research.
	Add analysis and explanation of how this point supports the thesis.
Body Paragraph 2	Begin with another topic sentence that introduces the second main point.
	Provide supporting evidence, examples, or research.
	Add analysis and explanation of how this point supports the thesis.
Body Paragraph 3	Include a good topic sentence that introduces the third main point.
	Provide supporting evidence, examples, or research.
	Add analysis and explanation of how this point supports the thesis.
Counterarguments	Present potential opposing views or counterarguments.
Counterarguments	Provide supporting evidence, examples, or research.
Refutations (optional)	Refute counterarguments with evidence and reasoning.
Refutations (optional)	Provide supporting evidence, examples, or research.
Discussion (optional)	Discuss the wider impact of study findings and how they contribute to the understanding of digital channels.
Conclusion	Restate the thesis in light of the evidence presented.
	Summarize the central points discussed in the body.
	Offer final thoughts, implications, or suggestions for future research.
References/Bibliography	List all sources cited in a written essay, formatted according to the required citation style (e.g., APA 7, MLA 9, Harvard, Chicago/Turabian, etc.).
Appendices (optional)	Include additional materials, such as charts, graphs, or questionnaires, that are referenced in a composition.

Note: A general format presented in a table above works not only for organizing an essay but also for writing a social media research paper. In this case, optional sections are necessary for organizing research papers, while other parts are needed for writing a typical essay on social media. Moreover, some sections can be combined in a single paragraph or added and deleted depending on a writer’s scope of research. Finally, to write a social media essay, writers start by introducing an engaging topic and thesis, then develop body paragraphs with evidence and analysis, address counterarguments, and conclude by summarizing key points and reiterating a main idea of a composition.

All essays require a proper structure, just like other academic papers. For example, a typical structure of a social media essay includes an introduction part with a corresponding thesis statement, several body paragraphs presenting evidence and analysis, a section addressing counterarguments, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and restates a central claim (Redman & Maples, 2017). As such, the first step in writing a successful media paper is to develop a correct essay outline, which shows all the necessary sections. In turn, students may use the following structure:

Introduction

Outstanding social media essays should have a good college essay introduction that captures the reader’s attention with an impressive hook. For example, to structure a social media essay, writers begin with an introduction and thesis statement, follow with body paragraphs presenting evidence and analysis, write a counterargument section with an opposing position, and conclude with a summary and restatement of a thesis (Specht, 2019). Moreover, an engaging hook sentence makes people interested in reading an entire essay. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning a social media essay include:

As modern media continues to be integrated into every aspect of human daily life, the implications include … .
In examining the transformative power of digital platforms, it becomes evident that … .
The popularity of online platforms has not only shaped a way of communication but also … .
In the middle of the current digital revolution, media channels stand out as a bridge for … .
Web use and privacy rights raise complex questions about … .
With today’s growth and popularity of online influencers, the dynamics of … .
A better understanding of the web’s impact on mental health reveals … .
The role of networking channels in contemporary political discourse underlines the need to … .
As digital technologies reshape the landscape of information dissemination, its influence on … .
Exploring the ethical aspects of Internet networking use highlights the tension between … .

Keywords and Summary

Writing a good introduction for a social media essay includes keywords and an overview of the main ideas. In particular, people should include keywords that relate to a topic in question (Boot et al., 2021). Moreover, opening paragraphs should consist of catchy words, while they allow readers to have a clear picture of an intended message. In turn, a clear summary of the main ideas allows the targeted audience to develop a clear understanding of a topic. Besides, such brief details reveal writing an essay’s scope.

Outstanding social media essays should have a clear thesis statement that reveals the main message. Basically, a good thesis statement should show the writer’s unique thoughts and perception of a topic (Redman & Maples, 2017). Besides, one should create a debatable thesis statement that seeks to prove something about a subject in question.

The body of social media essays provides ideas required to support a central claim. In this case, writers have a mandate to provide adequate evidence to support a thesis statement (Specht, 2019). Basically, the essay’s body should contain different sections related to a thesis statement. Hence, writers must follow a specific structure of body paragraphs.

Topic Sentence

Each body paragraph must begin with a topic sentence that relates to a thesis statement. In practice, a body paragraph in any essay must focus on writing one idea. To make a social media essay stand out, writers offer unique insights, support their arguments with strong evidence, and present a well-balanced analysis of different perspectives (Capriotti & Zeler, 2023). Moreover, a topic sentence should relate to a single idea connected to a central argument. In turn, this strategy enables one to communicate intended ideas to the audience clearly.

Students must provide the necessary evidence to support an idea presented in a topic sentence. As a rule, one should use real-life examples or evidence from reliable sources to support a topic sentence. Basically, this approach makes a media essay appear compelling and relevant to issues that affect readers (Schulz et al., 2022). Moreover, writers can use social media posts as references in their essays, but they must ensure they are from credible sources and appropriately cited. In turn, one should provide correct citations for evidence by using appropriate referencing formats, such as APA 7, MLA 9, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian, among others.

Explanation

Writers must provide a clear and relevant description of evidence cited from academic sources to avoid plagiarism and write effectively. Moreover, readers need to understand corresponding connections between an example given, a topic sentence, and a thesis statement. In this case, one should provide one or two sentences that explain how the evidence supports an idea presented in a paragraph (Cogni, 2019). Besides, a prudent writer uses transitional words in a paragraph to enhance the flow of ideas and separate sentences for a friendly reading. In turn, readers should have a seamless flow of concepts as they go through a text.

Concluding and Transitioning Sentences

Each body paragraph must end with a concluding and transitioning statement. For instance, all the body paragraphs should have a unique relationship between key ideas presented in these sections (Redman & Maples, 2017). On the other hand, readers should not experience unnecessary disruptions and obstructions as they move from one paragraph to another. In this case, the last sentence of each body paragraph must provide a clear summary of the main ideas presented in a section. Besides, this sentence should be linked to a topic sentence of the next paragraph. Hence, students must ensure all body paragraphs are connected with each other to keep the audience glued until the end of an essay.

The Number of Body Paragraphs

The ideas presented in a thesis statement determine the number of body paragraphs that one should use when writing a social media essay. As a rule, one should focus on communicating the main message effectively (Boot et al., 2021). Moreover, one must evaluate a thesis statement and split it into different ideas to convey the central idea effectively. For persuasive essay topics, one must use several paragraphs that show facts effectively. To ensure their social media essay is unbiased and objective, writers rely on credible sources, present multiple perspectives, and avoid letting personal opinions dominate an entire analysis. Hence, a good essay should have several sections that enhance a logical representation of ideas.

A social media essay must have a concluding paragraph that brings a paper to a logical closure. Basically, students not only focus on being creative when writing the conclusion part but also reiterate the main points discussed in a body section with a thesis statement by using different wording (Specht, 2019). Unfortunately, some writers make mistakes in introducing new information and evidence in the conclusion section. Besides, such flaws undermine the essay’s quality and lower the ability to communicate the intended message. As a rule, one should restate a thesis statement and summarize the ideas presented in all topic sentences. Besides, the closing paragraph should include any appropriate call to action. Hence, the conclusion should bring an entire essay to a logical closure that reveals the ideas presented.

Example of a Written Social Media Essay

Topic: Is Social Media a Problem or a Solution?

Introduction Sample

Social media is a primary cause of the major problems today. Basically, the emergence of this technology has enabled people to maintain close interaction with friends from all over the world. Besides, such applications make digital channels a suitable solution to societal issues and interests. However, it results in many social ills. Although some people argue that digital technologies solve societal problems, their continued wide use leads to long-lasting hatred problems.

Examples of Body Paragraphs

Argument: Hatred

Social media leads to hatred among teenagers. For instance, most teenagers rely on digital devices to establish relationships with their peers. In this case, they tend to spread hatred in their social circles. Moreover, web bullying and victimization are the primary causes of teenage suicide. In turn, hatred caused by this online technology can lead to terminal consequences. Hence, online communication can be a significant cause of hatred among teenagers despite having some benefits.

Counterargument: Benefits

On the other hand, social media communication provides a unique way of establishing unique solutions. For instance, teenagers create friends through online platforms. In turn, this strategy allows them to share ideas and issues that affect their lives. Eventually, they manage to address many challenges that affect their lives. Hence, web-based spaces support the establishment of unique societal solutions.

Weaknesses of a Counterargument: Proper Use

The counterclaim is weaker than the main argument since it ignores that only a small number of people use social media constructively. For example, new web users may face bullying and other mistreatments that lead to anger and resentment. Besides, addiction to its usage leads to psychological problems like stress.

Conclusion Sample

In summary, some people argue that social media solves societal problems. However, such arguments tend to disregard the impact of the continued widespread application of internet-based communication methods, which causes long-lasting problems of hatred. Unfortunately, the significance of such disgust may include suicide among teenagers.

Another Writing Sample

Topic: Describe Two Undesirable Effects of Social Media

Example of an Introduction

Online-based communication methods form an indispensable fragment of human life. Basically, many individuals rely on social media for communicating and maintaining close contact with friends and family members. Despite the presence of such benefits, the wide use of web platforms leads to adverse effects. Because online networking is a popular mode of communication, it continues to cause negative impacts, like cyberbullying and suicidal thoughts.

Body Sample

Effect 1: Cyberbullying

The wide use of social media platforms leads to cyberbullying among teenagers. For example, the majority of teenagers who use online platforms have experienced cyberbullying in the form of name-calling and rumor-spreading. Basically, these abusive online behaviors lead to damaging resentments and unmatched hatred among teenagers. In turn, this problem leads to chronic stress among victims. Hence, such platforms expose youths to cyberbullying, including suicidal thoughts.

Effect 2: Suicidal Thoughts

Social media use has a direct contribution to a suicidal way of thinking. For example, many scientists show in their study reports how the Internet and other networking platforms influence suicidal thoughts. In this case, damaging resentments from cyberbullying and intimidation in online environments motivate youths to think about suicide as a way to get out of problems they face. Moreover, online interactions expose teenagers to enter cults and groups that consider suicide as an easier way of escaping social challenges. Hence, interactions through digital spaces are a source of motivation for teenagers to develop suicidal thoughts.

Example of a Conclusion

In summary, social media is a popular mode of communication today. In particular, the development of online platforms as a suitable tool of interaction exposes teenagers to adverse effects like cyberbullying. Moreover, many youths develop anger and resentment that may lead to suicidal thoughts. Thus, scientists need to develop new methods of how to overcome such outcomes of media use.

Common Mistakes

Lack of a Clear Thesis: Failing to present a concise thesis statement and outline the main argument or focus of an entire essay.
Overgeneralization: Making broad, sweeping statements without backing them up with specific examples or evidence.
Ignoring Counterarguments: Not addressing opposing viewpoints or potential criticisms of a central argument.
Inadequate Research: Relying on outdated or unreliable sources or not using enough credible articles to support key points.
Excessive Jargon: Using too much technical language, terms, or jargon without proper explanation, making a written composition difficult to understand.
Neglecting Structure: Poor organization of ideas, leading to a lack of coherence and clarity in a particular paper.
Ignoring Ethical Considerations: Overlooking important ethical issues related to digital channels, such as privacy and data security.
Lack of Analysis: Simply describing web trends without analyzing their implications or significance.
Personal Bias: Writing personal opinions in an entire content without providing objective analysis or evidence.
Grammatical and Typographical Errors: Failing to proofread and edit a final essay, resulting in distracting errors that undermine its credibility.

Digital platforms are popular methods of communication in the twenty-first century. In this case, many students write essays and research papers on connections between the use of online-based communication methods and human lives. Moreover, social media essays are unique academic papers that focus on a wide range of topics. Hence, easy steps that learners should consider when writing social media essays are:

Start with an introduction that hooks readers.
Develop body paragraphs that contain real-life examples or evidence from credible sources, like studies, reports, books, scholarly articles, and news articles with relevant explanations.
Finish writing an entire essay with a summative conclusion.

Boot, A. B., Dijkstra, K., & Zwaan, R. A. (2021). The processing and evaluation of news content on social media is influenced by peer-user commentary. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications , 8 (1), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-021-00889-5

Capriotti, P., & Zeler, I. (2023). Analysing effective social media communication in higher education institutions. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications , 10 (1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-023-02187-8

Cogni, M. (2019). From sentences to essays: A guide to reflective writing through reflective thinking . Vernon Press.

Redman, P., & Maples, W. (2017). Good essay writing: A social sciences guide . SAGE Publications Ltd.

Schulz, A., Fletcher, R., & Nielsen, R. K. (2022). The role of news media knowledge for how people use social media for news in five countries. New Media & Society , 26 (7), 4056–4077. https://doi.org/10.1177/14614448221108957

Specht, D. (2019). The media and communications study skills: Student guide . University of Westminster Press.

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

How Many Paragraphs Are in an Essay or How Long It Is in Words?

Icon Calendar 21 September 2020
Icon Page 3457 words

945 Psychology Research Topics & Good Ideas

Icon Calendar 19 September 2020
Icon Page 9532 words

Social Media Essay: Benefits and Drawbacks of Social Networking Sites

The advent of various social media channels has revolutionized the internet landscape by introducing us to global networking. Today, an individual can connect with another in a completely different part of this world just in a matter of seconds. We will take you through various notions and opinions associated with social media and how they impact our everyday lives. Also, there are some incredible tips to give you a better insight into how to write a social media essay.

Sep 03 2020 ● 8 min read

What is social media essay, how do you write a social media essay, structure of social media essay, various tones of a social media essay, incorporate an attractive topic.

As you know, an social media essay is a piece of writing that is used to introduce an essential topic to the world with its underlying advantages and disadvantages. These aspects are driven solely by facts and should not contain the opinions of the writers. It is drafted to give others a better understanding of the subject in hand.

No matter which subject it pertains to, an essay ends with a conclusion where the writers are permitted to give their opinion after weighing the advantages and disadvantages.

Similarly, a social media essay is written to appreciate the positive aspects and highlight the negative impacts of social media in this time and day. The conclusions include the analysis of the two elements by the writers in their own lives and give an open-ended point of view. Depending upon the essay writer or paper writing service , the decision can be decisive, too, but that is not encouraged.

Today, the use of social networks, whether it is Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, or LinkedIn, has increased exponentially. An average millennial spends 2 hours and 58 minutes per day on social media platforms like Facebook. While some say that the platform is super-informative, others argue that all the information gathered on this platform is trivial and doesn't justify long hours invested in the use of social media.

The above arguments make using social media by individuals with a debatable issue, and this is why a lot of students are required to write an essay on social media. So, here are some incredible tips to help you out in writing an essay on social media even if you don't have marketing skills .

A classic essay consists of 3 parts – the introduction, main body, and the conclusion.

The Introduction

As you introduce the main topic, always begin with how it is relevant to the current scenario. You can do this by providing some background information. The information can be made richer by adding some reliable stats and data . Once you have established the topic, you need to give a strong thesis statement of the hypothesis on which your essay is based.

The thesis statement in your essay should be precise and debatable. If not, the arguments that you are going to put forward in the essay would make no sense.

The main body of your text should consist of logical arguments in relevance to your hypothesis. Make sure you put forward one statement in one paragraph and start a new one with another section. This will make your essay look more organized.

Also, when developing ideas, only include the ones you can write clearly about. If not, avoid them. Make sure that the essay develops coherently.

To conclude the essay about social media, bring back your hypothesis, and state how the aspects you discussed earlier support or nullify it. Make it a point to summarize all ideas, but do not start adding more ideas when you are about to conclude. You can now give an, ideally, open end to your essay.

A great conclusion is the one that provokes thought and will make your readers question the use of social media in their everyday lives.

Also, remember that essays do not have to include pros and cons always. They can either be full of pros or cons or both, depending upon your hypothesis. Just ensure they are relevant.

You might believe that an essay is an essay, and two of them would be similar, but that's a misconception. Different essays have varying tones depending on how the author is treating the thesis statement through the main body of the text. Here are a few examples of essays on social media in different tones.

Sample of a Persuasive Essay

If you are asked to write an academic paper about the effects of social media on the mental health of teenagers and young adults, you should make it persuasive. For this, just writing about the topic is not enough. It would help if you had an impactful thesis, followed by powerful arguments to support or question your theory.

The perils associated with social media addiction are forcing parents and "grown-ups" to throw their benefits in bad light today. In the race to become best in academics and non-academic activities, people are losing their grip on how social networks bring people together. They empower individuals with knowledge about various cultures and languages, which might not have been possible otherwise.

Social media sites can be addictive, and students might waste their formative years scrolling through the trivial feed and gain nothing but superficial knowledge. But that is just because neither parents nor the school is encouraging positive social media behavior. If these institutions start offering tips to students to limit and utilize their time on social media , one would be amazed to see their achievements.

Is social media a catalyst for the downfall of student life? Well, social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and more are teeming with inspirational achievers and content creators who go the extra mile to share their stories and inspire students. If the children are taught to see their access to social media as an opportunity to grow rather than a competition for likes and followers, they are bound to work harder and achieve goals that seemed insurmountable earlier.

Sample of Negative Essay about social media

If you have been asked to highlight the negative aspects of social media, your teacher does not mean that you have to cross all limits to present the use of social media in a bad light. Instead, what they are asking for is some logical and believable arguments that tell us why social media is harmful to society.

Social media is destroying family links by creating a virtual shell for each individual, which dissociates them with their own parents and siblings. The kids are adversely affected by increased access to social media if parents are always indulged in their devices and ignore them. Eventually, even kids start using tools to connect to other people, ignoring their family members.

Since kids and teenagers are the most impressionable age groups, they start believing that everything that glitters on social media platforms is gold, and they become materialistic. Their lives start revolving around likes, comments, and followers/subscribers. No matter whether their minds are prepared for such exposure or not, social media exposes them to the best and the worst about this world, which might turn them into rebels. They start valuing their online friends more than their offline lives and go to unimaginable extents to keep them entertained.

So, parents and elders need to pay attention to their children and limit their social media use so that they can learn to form real relationships and values.

Weighing the pros and cons

Another way in which you can present your social media essay is by comparing the positive and negative aspects associated with it. In such essays, the conclusion is better left open for the readers to decide their own take on social media.

One cannot argue that social media has taken the world by storm by allowing like-minded individuals to connect and share their experiences with the world. You can use these platforms to make new friends and discover the ones who have lost touch. You can talk to everyone on your friend list and share your content on these channels to become a part of the creators' community. There is no dearth for talent on social media and its admirers.

On the other hand, if you use social media sites for long stretches of time in one go, you run the risk of addiction. Gradually, a social media addict starts to build a cocoon for themselves, which they find hard to step out of. This leads to a disconnect between you and the family you already have and love. One might feel too confined yet comfortable in their space that they have no urge left to step out, pushing them towards social seclusion, or worse – depression.

When you flip the coin again, you will discover that social media has become an incredible platform for small businesses to grow and earn good profits . The grass-root companies do not have to invest much for advertising and promotion or even own an establishment. All they have to do is to create a grassroots marketing strategy for themselves, and their brand will start selling in no time!

In the end, social media is a game-changer on the World Wide Web. It allows people to connect with the virtual world with the risk of disconnecting with the real world. Then again, businesses are doing well on these platforms. There are indeed two sides to social media, one positive and another negative, and it is up to you which one you lean towards more.

Argumentative social media essay

A challenging but equally exciting type of essay on social media you should know about is an argumentative essay. It is often written when you are tasked with altering the point of view of the reader, which is of a completely opposite belief. Here is a sample for your better understanding.

Social networks have an uncertain future with the string impression they leave on users, especially the younger generations. Parents panic with the first mention of social media sites by their children and learning about their presence on these platforms because they are afraid of cyberbullying. They do not want their children to get cat-fished by some stranger on Reddit when they are not around.

Moreover, social media platforms are the reason why several individuals are losing their confidential data every day to corporate houses. These businesses are using the information to bug users with ads about stuff they do not want to buy.

If such instances carry on, the day is not far when the government will start to keep checks on the likes of Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other channels. Massive surveillance will be imposed on these sites to prevent malicious minds from harming innocent teenagers physically or by hacking into their systems. So, before you get a chance to ask " have I been hacked ", know that someone is taking care of it.

Having an attractive topic for your social media essay does not mean using poetic words in it. You should have an issue relevant to the current scenario. In the process of selecting a fascinating topic, do not forget to keep it within the extents of your knowledge. If it becomes too complicated for you to write about, you will be stuck when coming up with arguments and ideas.

The perfect topic would be the one which offers good potential for research and is interesting for the readers too. Even if you present profound arguments about such topics, they should be in a logical, comprehensible, and readable format for people to understand easily.

Writing a social media essay is no cakewalk, whether you are a high-school student or university student. All you need to do is, structuralize it properly, be clear with the ideas and arguments you are planning to present, pick the tone of your essay, and began writing. Do not forget to top your essay up with a catchy topic so that your entire hard work doesn't fall flat.

Published on Sep 03 2020

Gintaras is an experienced marketing professional who is always eager to explore the most up-to-date issues in data marketing. Having worked as an SEO manager at several companies, he's a valuable addition to the Whatagraph writers' pool.

Create your first marketing report using Whatagraph

Marketing analytics & reporting · 5 mins

9 Techniques for Mastering B2B Lead Nurturing to Grow Your Business

Agency guides · 10 mins

Demonstrating Value To Clients: Tips For Marketing Agencies

Why Client Reporting Matters: 5 Outstanding Client Report Examples + Templates

Marketing analytics & reporting · 10 mins

Best Marketing Analytics Tools and Software in 2024

Agency guides · 5 mins

Building Trust with Clients: Tips for Marketing Agencies

Agency guides · 7 mins

How to Exceed Client Expectations as Marketing Agency

Get marketing insights direct to your inbox.

By submitting this form, you agree to our privacy policy

Social Media Essay: A Comprehensive Guide

Emily Scott

In an age when one tweet can start a global conversation and an Instagram picture may change trends, it's amazing to realize that the typical person spends about 2 hours and 31 minutes every day on social media sites. That's more than 900 hours a year spent scrolling, enjoying, and sharing in the huge digital world. As we grow more enmeshed in the fabric of online communities, the need of understanding and communicating the dynamics of social media through the written word, particularly in a social media essay, becomes clearer. So, why begin on the adventure of writing an essay about this common feature of modern life?

Social Media Essay Introduction

In this post, we'll look at how to write an essay on social media and why these narratives exist, as well as a variety of other interesting topics. From the heartbeat of internet relationships to the rhythm of good narrative, we'll walk you through the process, giving tips on structure, technique, and the creative soul that distinguishes each essay. And whether you're seeking assistance or wondering

Why Write a Social Media Essay

In a world filled with hashtags, filters, and the continual hum of notifications, sitting down to write an essay about social media may appear as out of place as a cassette tape in a streaming era. However, there's something strangely cathartic, almost rebellious, about pausing in the midst of 280-character wisdom to delve deeper into the why of our digital existence.

So, what exactly is a social media essay, and why would you write one? It's more than just a test of intellectual curiosity. It's a personal trip, a meditative break in the never-ending scroll. While writing the essay, we get the ability to articulate the intangible, to give life to the pixels that dance across our screens. It's an opportunity to make sense of the chaos, find meaning in the memes, and, perhaps, learn a little more about ourselves in this digital wilderness.

Let's be honest: our online lives revolve around memes, viral challenges, and meticulously edited selfies. So, why bother wrestling with words and paragraphs in a world when brevity reigns supreme? The solution lies in the art of unraveling the digital fabric that surrounds us.

There's something magical in articulating the dance between the sublime and the banal that happens within the limits of our screens. An article serves as a lens, focusing our attention on the nuances of social media dynamics, such as internal jokes that become global phenomena, the ripple effect of a well-timed retweet, and the quiet conversations that occur in the comment sections.

6 Key Tips for Writing a Social Media Essay

Now that we've embarked on a journey of writing essays about the digital landscape, it's only fair to arm ourselves with a few reliable tools. Consider these guidelines to be your compass, guiding you through the sometimes turbulent, often unforeseen waters of writing a social media essay.

Define your angle : Choose a specific aspect of social media to focus on. Will you explore its impact on education, mental health, political discourse, or something else entirely? Having a clear angle will guide your research and make your essay more cohesive.

Research like a pro : Don't just rely on personal anecdotes or opinions. Dig into academic journals, credible news sources, and relevant statistics to support your arguments. Consider interviewing experts or everyday users of social media to gain diverse perspectives.

Strike a balance : Acknowledge both the positive and negative impacts of social media. Avoid portraying it as a simple "good" or "bad" phenomenon. Show your critical thinking skills by presenting a nuanced discussion of its complexities.

Engage your audience : Use vivid language, relatable examples, and even humor (if appropriate) to keep your reader hooked. Remember, you're competing with the constant distractions of social media itself, so make your essay engaging and thought-provoking.

Support your claims : Every point you make should be backed up with evidence. This could include factual data, quotes from experts, or personal stories that illustrate your arguments. Use relevant and credible sources to strengthen your essay's credibility.

Conclude with a bang : Don't just summarize your points. Offer a thoughtful conclusion that ties everything together and leaves your reader with something to ponder. Perhaps propose solutions to identified problems or suggest areas for further research.

Social Media Essay Topics

In the huge world of social media, where every like and share adds to the digital story, selecting the proper social media essay titles and topics becomes an important compass for inquiry. Let's look at thought-provoking themes that will not only hold your interest but also spark thoughtful discussions about the complexities of our linked world.

Individual & Identity:

The impact of social media on self-esteem and body image.

How social media shapes our sense of identity and belonging.

The rise of "fake personas" and the concept of online authenticity.

Social media and the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.

The impact of social media on mental health and anxiety.

Society & Culture:

The role of social media in spreading misinformation and propaganda.

The rise of "echo chambers" and political polarization.

How social media influences social movements and activism.

The influence of social media on conventional media and journalism.

The ethics of data gathering and privacy issues on social networking.

Business & Marketing:

The effectiveness of social media marketing for businesses and brands.

The development of influencer marketing and its effects on consumer behavior.

Social media advertising presents both obstacles and opportunity.

The ethical considerations of targeted advertising and data use.

The future of social media and its role in the global economy.

Specific Platforms:

The unique impact of specific platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, etc.

The evolution of social media platforms and their changing features.

The impact of social media on specific demographics like teenagers, young adults, or seniors.

The ethical concerns and controversies surrounding specific platforms.

The future of specific platforms and their potential impact on society.

If these subjects sparked your attention, you'll probably find persuasive essay ideas to be just as fascinating! Dive into our post to discover a selection of possibilities that can catch your interest and inspire your next writing project.

Wrapping Up

As our university essay writing service professionals wrap up this post, we've explored the emotional intricacies, societal reflections, and transformative potentials buried in our digital narratives. An article on social media offers a glimpse into the delicate dance of our online lives, encouraging introspection, empathy, and knowledge of other stories. Allow your articles to honestly reflect, sparking discussions that deepen our collective experience in this ever-changing digital universe.

Book Your Assignment

For your response..

We will revert back soon!! Your information is 100% safe with us.

What Are Open Educational Resources (OER)? Top 7 Benefits

How will telehealth impact the future of nursing, advantages and disadvantages of an er-model, capstone projects for nursing programs, how to understand a nursing case study concept.

Academic (29)
Accounting (25)
Assignments (83)
Biochemistry (1)
Business (8)
Business Law (2)
Case Study (4)
Celebration (22)
Communication (1)
Computer Network (2)
Computer Science (19)
Coursework Help (1)
Cybersecurity (1)
Dissertation (13)
Economics (18)
Engineering (21)
English (5)
Essay Writing (50)
Events (34)
Finance (12)
Holmes Institute (1)
Homework (6)
International Students (2)
Leadership (1)
Lifestyle (8)
Management (39)
Marketing (14)
Mass Communication (2)
Mathematics (9)
Medical (6)
Miscellaneous (21)
News and Information (23)
Nursing (14)
Perdisco (2)
Programming (18)
Proofreading Services (1)
Science (19)
Social Science (4)
Statistics (3)
Study Abroad (5)
Taxation (2)

Essay on Social Media for School Students and Children

500+ words essay on social media.

Social media is a tool that is becoming quite popular these days because of its user-friendly features. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more are giving people a chance to connect with each other across distances. In other words, the whole world is at our fingertips all thanks to social media. The youth is especially one of the most dominant users of social media. All this makes you wonder that something so powerful and with such a massive reach cannot be all good. Like how there are always two sides to a coin, the same goes for social media. Subsequently, different people have different opinions on this debatable topic. So, in this essay on Social Media, we will see the advantages and disadvantages of social media.

Advantages of Social Media

When we look at the positive aspect of social media, we find numerous advantages. The most important being a great device for education . All the information one requires is just a click away. Students can educate themselves on various topics using social media.

Moreover, live lectures are now possible because of social media. You can attend a lecture happening in America while sitting in India.

Furthermore, as more and more people are distancing themselves from newspapers, they are depending on social media for news. You are always updated on the latest happenings of the world through it. A person becomes more socially aware of the issues of the world.

In addition, it strengthens bonds with your loved ones. Distance is not a barrier anymore because of social media. For instance, you can easily communicate with your friends and relatives overseas.

Most importantly, it also provides a great platform for young budding artists to showcase their talent for free. You can get great opportunities for employment through social media too.

Another advantage definitely benefits companies who wish to promote their brands. Social media has become a hub for advertising and offers you great opportunities for connecting with the customer.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Disadvantages of Social Media

Despite having such unique advantages, social media is considered to be one of the most harmful elements of society. If the use of social media is not monitored, it can lead to grave consequences.

Thus, the sharing on social media especially by children must be monitored at all times. Next up is the addition of social media which is quite common amongst the youth.

This addiction hampers with the academic performance of a student as they waste their time on social media instead of studying. Social media also creates communal rifts. Fake news is spread with the use of it, which poisons the mind of peace-loving citizens.

In short, surely social media has both advantages and disadvantages. But, it all depends on the user at the end. The youth must particularly create a balance between their academic performances, physical activities, and social media. Excess use of anything is harmful and the same thing applies to social media. Therefore, we must strive to live a satisfying life with the right balance.

FAQs on Social Media

Q.1 Is social media beneficial? If yes, then how?

A.1 Social media is quite beneficial. Social Media offers information, news, educational material, a platform for talented youth and brands.

Q.2 What is a disadvantage of Social Media?

A.2 Social media invades your privacy. It makes you addicted and causes health problems. It also results in cyberbullying and scams as well as communal hatred.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

Travelling Essay
Picnic Essay
Our Country Essay
My Parents Essay
Essay on Favourite Personality
Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
Essay on Knowledge is Power
Essay on Gurpurab
Essay on My Favourite Season
Essay on Types of Sports

Download the App

Persuasive Essay Writing

Persuasive Essay About Social Media

Learn How to Write a Persuasive Essay About Social Media With Examples

Published on: Jan 26, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

Brief Overview of Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay persuades the reader or audience to take a particular stance on an issue. It is used to present an opinion on any subject, and it typically takes the form of an academic essay. It includes evidence and facts supporting its arguments.

The writer must use facts and reliable sources to back up his or her claims.

It is also important that the essay should be well-structured. It should have clear arguments and a logical flow from one point to another.

Learn more about crafting perfect persuasive essays with the help of our detailed guide.

Persuasive Essay Examples About Social Media

Are you a student unsure how to write persuasive essays successfully? Well, never fear!

We've got examples of some amazing persuasive essays about social media that will surely give you inspiration. Letâs take a look at a short persuasive essay example:

Social media is a double-edged sword that has both positive and negative impacts on our society. On one hand, it serves as a powerful tool for communication, connectivity, and information dissemination. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram allow people to connect with friends and family, share experiences, and stay updated on current events. This connectivity can foster a sense of community and bridge geographical gaps.

However, the darker side of social media cannot be ignored. The rise of cyberbullying, misinformation, and the addictive nature of these platforms raise concerns about their impact on mental health and societal well-being. The constant comparison fueled by curated online personas can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, especially among the younger demographic.

Moreover, the rapid spread of fake news and misinformation on social media platforms poses a threat to the integrity of public discourse. The echo chamber effect, where users are exposed to information that aligns with their existing beliefs, further polarizes society and hinders constructive dialogue.

Despite these drawbacks, social media has undeniably played a pivotal role in movements for social justice and political change. The Arab Spring and various hashtag movements demonstrate the power of social media in mobilizing communities for positive societal transformations.

In conclusion, the impact of social media on our society is nuanced. While it facilitates communication and connectivity, it also brings forth challenges related to mental health, misinformation, and polarization. The key lies in striking a balance, leveraging the positive aspects while addressing the negative consequences through responsible usage, digital literacy, and regulatory measures. It is crucial for society to harness the potential of social media for collective benefit while mitigating its harmful effects.

Check these FREE downloadable samples of persuasive essays!

Persuasive essay about social media on students

Persuasive essay about social media addiction

Persuasive Essay about Social Media Platforms are Danger to Our Privacy

Persuasive essay about social media beneficial or harmful

Persuasive essay about social media privacy

Persuasive essay on social media is bad for students

Examples of Argumentative Essay about Social Media

To help get your creative juices flowing, look at these example argumentative essays about social media below!

Argumentative essay about social media advantages and disadvantages

Argumentative essay about social media addiction

For more examples of persuasive essays, check out our blog on persuasive essay examples .

How Can You Write a Persuasive Essay About Social Media?

A persuasive essay about social media can be an interesting and challenging task.

Understanding what makes a persuasive essay unique and how to craft arguments that effectively communicate your point of view is important.

These are a few steps you should follow before writing an effective persuasive essay on social media.

Step 1: Decide Your Stance

First, you must decide on your stance regarding the issue at hand. Are you for or against the use of social media? Are you in support of social media?

After you decide your stance, move on to the research process.

Step 2: Conduct Due Research

Once you have established your position, you must research the topic and develop an argument that supports your stance.

Make sure to include facts, statistics, and examples to back up your points.

Step 3: Outline Your Essay

Create a structured persuasive essay outline before delving into detailed writing. This roadmap will help organize your thoughts, ensuring a logical flow of arguments. Outline your introduction, key points, counterarguments, and conclusion.

Step 4: Craft Your Introduction

The introduction should provide context, state the thesis statement , and grab the reader's attention. It precedes deciding your stance and initiates the overall writing process.

Read this free PDF to learn more about crafting essays on social media!

Persuasive essay about social media introduction

Step 5: Write the Body

Organize your arguments logically in the body of the essay. Each paragraph should focus on a specific point, supported by research and addressing counterarguments. This follows the introduction and precedes maintaining a persuasive tone.

Step 6: Address All Counterarguments

It is important to anticipate potential counterarguments from those who oppose your stance.

Take time to address these points directly and provide evidence for why your opinion is more valid.

Step 7: Maintain a Persuasive Tone

To maintain your audience's attention, it is important to write in a confident and persuasive tone throughout the essay.

Use strong language that will make readers take notice of your words.

Check out this video on persuasive writing tones and styles.

Step 8: Conclude Your Essay

Finally, end your essay with a memorable conclusion that will leave your audience with something to think about.

With these important steps taken into account, you can create an effective persuasive essay about social media!

Step 9: Revise and Edit

After completing your initial draft, take time to revise and edit your essay. Ensure clarity, coherence, and the effective flow of arguments. This step follows the conclusion of your essay and precedes the final check for overall effectiveness.

Persuasive Essay About Social Media Writing Tips

Here are some additional writing tips to refine your persuasive essay on social media.

Highlight Numbers: Use facts and numbers to show how important social media is.
Tell Stories: Share real stories to help people connect with the impact of social media.
Use Pictures: Add charts or pictures to make your essay more interesting and easy to understand.
Answer Questions: Think about what people might disagree with and explain why your ideas are better.
Talk About What's Right: Explain why it's important to use social media in a good and fair way.

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

Social Media Persuasive Essay Topics

Take a look at these creative and enticing persuasive essay topics. Choose from one of them or get inspiration from these topics.

Should social media platforms be held accountable for cyberbullying?
Should age restrictions be stricter for social media access to protect younger users from its negative effects?
Should social media companies be mandated to prioritize user privacy over targeted advertising?
Should schools integrate mandatory education on the pitfalls of social media for students?
Should governments regulate the amount of time users spend on social media to prevent addiction?
Should social media influencers face stricter guidelines for promoting unrealistic body standards?
Should there be more transparency about how algorithms on social media platforms amplify divisive content?
Should employers be allowed to consider an applicant's social media profiles during the hiring process?
Should there be penalties for social networking sites that propagate false information?
Should there be a limit on the amount of personal data social media platforms can collect from users?

Check out some more interesting persuasive essay topics to get inspiration for your next essay.

Wrapping up,

Learning how to write persuasive essays about social media matters in today's digital world is crucial whether you are a high school student or a college student. These examples guide us in exploring both the good and bad sides of social media's impact.

We hope this persuasive blog on social media has given you a few new ideas to consider when persuading your audience.

But if you are struggling with your essay assignment do not hesitate to seek professional help. At CollegeEssay.org , our writing experts can help you get started on any type of essay.

With our professional persuasive essay writing service , you can be confident that your paper will be written in utmost detail.

So don't wait any longer! Just ask us ' write my essay ' today and let us help you make the most of your writing experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good persuasive essay topics.

Good persuasive essay topics can include topics related to social media, such as

whether or not it should be regulated more heavily,
the impact of social media on society,
how social media has changed our daily lives.

How do you write an introduction for social media essay?

You should start by briefly explaining what the essay will cover and why it is important.

You should also provide brief background information about the topic and what caused you to choose it for your essay.

What is a good title for a social media essay?

A good title for a social media essay could be "The Impact of Social Media on Society" or "Social Media: Regulation and Responsibility."

These titles indicate the content that will be discussed in the essay while still being interesting and thought-provoking.

Cathy A. (Marketing, Literature)

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.

Chapter 6: 21st-century media and issues

6.10.2 Social media and communication (research essay)

Lindsey Matier

English 102, April 2021

Communication is extremely important in today’s world, whether it be verbal or nonverbal. It can take place through many different forms such as through writing, speaking, listening and physical actions. These forms of communication evolve and continue to improve over time. As humans, we rely on communication for almost everything and it is a way of life. Communication has evolved from talking to writing letters to texting or talking over the phone. Every time a new form of communication is brought up and becomes more popular, we have to adapt and evolve to that new lifestyle. Throughout all the new forms of communication and ways of evolving, social media has been one of the most influential so far. Social media has allowed us to create new ways of communicating, such as texting or posting through different apps. It can connect us with people all over the world and give us a platform to express ourselves in ways that have not been possible before. While social media started off as a small form of technology, it has morphed into aspects of our everyday life. Now there are apps for everything from social media profiles to online shopping. While social media and technology itself has evolved, this has also affected our communication with each other and the world. Social media has created a fast track for information in a matter of seconds. It can give people a platform with millions of followers overnight for doing practically anything. It can help people express themselves in new ways and connect with people who have similar interests. The end goal of social media is to make people happy and ultimately make lives easier.

Introduction

With all this being said, it is evident that social media is in our everyday lives and will continue to change. It has a very strong grip on society as social media usage continues to rise throughout the years. Generalizing social media, we are exposed to forms of media at almost all times of the day. Answering the question of what media is will help give a better understanding of social media as a whole. Media can be defined as a way of mass communication. This could include siting in the car listening to ads on the radio all the way to scrolling on twitter. We are exposed to social media less often than generalized media, but it tends to come in greater quantities when exposed. For example, for people that wake up and check twitter it is an instant flood of information with every scroll. Everything from politics to sports to celebrity news is available at the fingertips. The concern is not all focused on the overwhelming information, but also the overwhelming number of comments and opinions. If we wanted to debate or talk about something before social media it had to be done in person, face to face. Now with social media, we are able to fight with people in comment sections on a backup account with a different name and no connection to who we really are. This new form of communication takes away the vulnerability of speaking to people and having genuine conversation, and makes up for it in internet trolls. Overall, social media is impacting the way we communicate with each other and the real questions are: Is social media impacting us in a positive or negative way? Do the positive aspects outweigh the negative aspects? Is social media hindering the way we communicate in person with each other? Is their more room for improvement when it comes to dealing with communication in the social media spectrum? How is social media impacting younger generation’s communication versus older generation’s communication? How can we help improve our communication skills on social media and in real life?

Personal Research

Along with the other studies that I found from the sources I chose, I also conducted my own study to determine more accurate and recent data. I asked students mostly within high school and college range questions relating to social media and communication. I tried to get a wide range of data dealing with social media apps, screen time, and overall communication as a result of social media. I expected to see almost all negative responses about social media and communication. I figured that most people would respond saying that it has affected them negatively rather than positively, but the results were different compared to what I expected.

The first questions I asked had to do with social media itself. I asked questions about their most used social media apps, screen time, what age they were allowed to start using social media, and whether or not they think social media has had a negative or positive impact on them. As expected, most of the social media apps were some of the most popular ones like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok. Overall, the average screen time for all apps was evenly split between 4-6 and 6-8 hours, which I also expected. Something that did surprise me was the amount of time spent on certain social media apps. The data was split pretty evenly three ways and all between 1-4 hours. The next two questions dealt with when they group surveyed started using social media. I asked these questions because a lot of the points I want to discuss later in my paper have to deal with age and whether younger generations are suffering when it comes to communication. More than half the people surveyed said that they wished that they had waited to get social media until they were older. Some said that it is not appropriate for younger kids and that it is just toxic in general. Something that I really like that a couple people mentioned was that in reality, social media at a young age is stupid and useless. A lot of people said they wish they would have enjoyed their childhood more and they would be more extroverted now if they had not been exposed that early. The last question of this section that I asked was if they thought social media has had a more positive or negative impact on them. Overall, the data was split but leaning slightly towards the more positive side. The positive answers mostly dealt with being able to talk to stay in contact with people and meeting new friends. The negative answers all related to mental health and feeling bad about themselves. A lot of people said it is toxic and very controlling and takes up too much of our time.

The next set of questions I asked had to do more with communication and interaction with and without social media. I asked questions like how they feel about social media and how it has impacted their communication, their mental health, and if it has made our lives easier. I decided to ask questions like these because I figured I would get a wide range of responses and a lot of people’s different opinions. I started off by asking if people are an introvert or an extrovert to get an idea of what the responses would be like, and 66% said somewhere in between the two. The response for the next question really shocked me because I received such a one-side response. I asked if they think social media has impacted their communication and the way they interact with others and 75% (18/24 people) said yes. This is the information that I was looking for along with the next two questions. The next question asked if they think social media has negatively impacted their mental health and 50% said yes. I also plan on using this as a research question to show that social media can affect our mental health and therefore affect the way we interact with and around other people. The last two questions are similar but the responses were both very good. Almost everyone answered yes to the question asking if social media has made our lives easier. Everyone that answered yes said they think so because it helps them talk to friends, stay in touch with people they do not see as much, and meet new people that they are comfortable talking to. The people that said no also made good points such as it takes over our lives and it is filled with too much hate and cancel culture. I agree with both sides and am very happy that people can feel a positive response especially when it comes to communicating with other people online. The last question I asked was used to wrap up the whole survey and topic. I asked if they think social media has made our generation’s communication improve or worsen. The data was pretty evenly split, and most people gave a positive and a negative. The people that said improve gave that answer because they said it broadens our communication and allows us to talk to people at a wider range. The people who said it has made it worse all said that it is ruining our face-to-face interaction and causing us to lose emotion. They said that some people do not even know how to have a proper in person conversation and that they are too dependent on their phones. Overall, I agree with both arguments that people made but I do think that the positives outweigh the negatives in most of these situations and questions.

Research Questions

The first question I want to ask has to deal with the overall social media and communication connection and has multiple other questions I would like to cover within it. The main question is: Is social media hindering the way we communicate with each other? I also want to touch on questions like: Is social media impacting us in a positive or negative way? Do the positives outweigh the negatives? The second set of research questions I have is: Is their more room for improvement when it comes to dealing with communication in the social media spectrum? How can we help improve our communication skills on social media and in real life? How is social media impacting younger generation’s communication versus older generation’s communication?

Research Question One

Social media and communication have a direct connection to each other and both have a strong impact on the outcome of the other. My first research question has to do with that. My questions center around how social media has impacted our communication, and whether or not it is positive or negative. First, I think it is important to note the changes and different characteristics that come into play when talking about this. Things like age and problems going on in our world can affect our social media usage and communication. While we connect to people on a deeper level when talking to the in person, social media has also given us a newer and more broad way of communicating. The article “How Social Media Affects Our Ability to Communicate” by Stacey Hanke, talks about different ways social media has impacted our communication. Social media has become so relevant in our day to day lives and Hanke describes it in a couple different ways. She describes it as information binging and the fear of missing out, social graces and conversational boredom. Within these, she explains how social media has become an excuse and escape to talk to people face to face. Hanke also talks about how even though it is limiting our in person communication, it can sometimes make communicating in general easier, by being able to talk to each other in just a few words (Hanke 1). In another article by Ryan J. Fuller titled “The Impact of Social Media Use on Our Social Skills”, he discusses similar topics to Hanke’s article but also brings up more positive attributes of social media. Fuller starts of his article by giving some statistics, stating that 75% of teens own cellphones and 25% of them using it for social media, and also says that they use 7.5 hours a day using it (Fuller 1). I am glad that this was brought up because it is important to know how much time is spent on social media, scrolling through feed. Next, Fuller starts to discuss some of the benefits of social media. He briefly explains how social media is beneficial because we are able to stay in touch with our friends and family, and share important parts of our lives with them. He also explains how it helps people reach out to new friends and provide themselves with more opportunities (Fuller 1). Overall, I really like that he mentioned these because it is important to keep in mind the vast majority of social media and communication. While some use it for more simpler purposes likes just keeping up to date with what is going on in the world, others use it to make new friends, find new job opportunities, and stay in touch with people. Another topic I find important when it comes to answering this research question is how Covid affected everything. With the pandemic, we were left inside with nothing to do but what was at our fingertips. This pandemic increased social media usage drastically. The article “Social Media Insights Into US Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Longitudinal Analysis of Twitter Data” by Danny Valdez et al, shows extensive research into determining just how much social media usage in the United States increased during the pandemic. They did experiments and surveys to determine multiple responses to research questions and show how much we rely on social media to communicate with each other. During the pandemic, everyone spent more time on their social media and their phone in general, probably more than they would like to admit. The article helps give more insight into this claim. There is the idea that social media was meant as an addition to our lives. For some people, it has become an addiction and a new piece of their life. The article focuses on how social media could be a toxic place and have a negative effect on our mental health. The time period for this information focuses around the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from Twitter, Valdez created a study to determine the mood of people during the pandemic and the usage throughout (Valdez et al 2). Collecting tweets with certain hashtags and during time periods, the goal was to determine how much the pandemic affected people’s moods, and how much they put out and shared on social media. They used hashtags, timeline data, and tweets from different periods such as the first lockdown, different stay at home orders, etc. Given the responses to the data, they were able to determine the increase in social media usage. We cannot determine if this had a positive or negative effect on the people who were using Twitter, but we can infer that social media is becoming a key part of our lives. Not being able to talk to people as much in person during the first few months of the pandemic greatly affected communication, in positive and negative ways. Communication over the phone increased due to the amount of free time that people had and were able to spend talking to others. Contrary to that, in person communication also decreased given that people were not really allowed to leave the house. The next article by Tayebi et al, “The Role of Information Systems in Communication Through Social Media” focuses a lot about how we have evolved over time with social media and communication. They start off by talking about how social networks are like social media societies. They explain it by resembling it to a human society, as it is filled with people communicating, regardless of time or place. They also exemplify other aspects such as emotional support, information, emotions (Tayebi 2). Social media is constantly looked at through such a negative light due to some of the major bad events that have taken place. While it can be difficult at times to look past the negatives, it is important to recognize and acknowledge the positives. The growth of scientific research would not be possible without the amount of information received from the media (Tayebi 3). Without social media and media in general, we would not be where we are today as a society. As mentioned earlier, it is so easy to get lost in the negative aspects of social media and discard the positive ones. Positive parts of social media such as widespread communication and unlimited access to information makes it all worth it. Staying on topic with positive aspects of social media and communication, social media in the workplace has also broken down barriers for communication. The article “A Guide to the Successful Use of Social Media in the Workplace” by Clark Boyd gives insight into how social media has improved the workplace, and ultimately communication and interaction as a whole. Companies can use social media as a form of branding and way to communicate their products (Boyd 4). Boyd states, “Harvard Business Review finds that 82% of employees believe social media improves work relationships. Left to their own devices, your teams will connect and communicate on social networks, both inside and outside the office.” This directly relates to the research question asking whether social media hinders our communication with each other. Social media also helps when it comes to dealing with complaints placed online. By seeing these through social media, it can help the company communicate either with the person or their company the concerns that are being stated (Boyd 9). Overall, it is safe to say that social media has directly affected communication throughout different aspects of our lives.

Research Question Two

My second set of research questions has a lot to do with the future and how we can improve. Questions such as: Is their more room for improvement when it comes to dealing with communication in the social media spectrum? How can we help improve our communication skills on social media and in real life? How is social media impacting younger generation’s communication versus older generation’s communication? The article “What is Literacy” by James Paul Gee talks a lot about the basics of communication. I find this an important article to talk about before I go into more detail with this second research question. Gee explains discourse as a socially accepted way of speaking, thinking, and acting (Gee 1). It is important to note this because social media has changed that discourse for us. We no longer communicate and interact the same way in which we use to therefore almost giving us a new discourse. Another thing Gee discusses is identity kits. Gee explains identity kits as “appropriate costumes and instructions on how to act and talk” (Gee 2). This relates to social media because there is a certain way we communicate online that we wouldn’t do in person. For example, we use emojis and abbreviations to communicate on social media or over text, but this is something we would not do when communicating face-to-face. There are also some basic well-known rules of social media that follow along the lines of an identity kit. Such as, for Instagram it is a common idea not to like people’s pictures from too long ago. When you say this aloud it sounds like it is not a big deal and silly almost, but for people that use social media it is something that makes sense. The next article is going to focus more on the question that has to do with room for improvement of communication. The article “The Positive Effect of Not Following Others on Social Media” by Francesca Valsesia, Davide Proserpio, and Joseph C. Nunes involves how we deal with social media and how we react to it. The article has a lot to do with pyramid schemes and marketing schemes on social media, simply due to follower count. Social media has a lot of power over us and the content we see. Influencers have too much impact on what we see every day and this overall effects our communication (Valsesia 1). Social media feeds us information at our fingertips, whether it be true or false. Valsesia is trying to get the point across that social media has no impact on our lives without the phone and therefore, having a smaller follower count is better for our communication and overall wellbeing in the first place. Leading into my next article, social media can have a huge impact on the younger generation. This leads into part of my second research question dealing with the younger generation and their communication. The article “The Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health: Challenges and Opportunities” by Jacqueline Nesi shows how social media is a very complex brand of information and makes it complicated for everyone. Younger kids having access to it and multiple devices like computers and phones makes it that much more difficult. There are a lot of positives and negatives for younger kids having access to social media and the internet in general. It has an impact on their mental health and studies show it leads to signs of depression, body dysmorphia, eating disorders (Nesi 2). It can also affect their communication and outward identity due to things such as bullying, internet drama, and behavioral problems. While it does have serious negative risks, social media also can bring a lot of new positive ones. Things like creative ideas, humor and entertainment, and being able to explore their identity are all really great positives that social media gives us (Nesi 4). Most of them using it as a way to connect with friends and family and help them feel a sense of acceptance and belonging (Nesi 4). Similarly to this, social media has given a great outlet for kids and young adults to speak out on issues going on in the world. The article “Building Bridges: Exploring the Communication Trends and Perceived Sociopolitical Benefits of Adolescents Engaging in Online Social Justice Efforts” by Mariah Elsa Kornbluh goes into detail about the racial injustices in the world and how they are communicated through social media. Social media networks can help connect kids to different backgrounds and aspects of their lives (Kornbluh 1). Kornbluh expresses how a society only can flourish under civic engagement and being able to express ourselves, and social media is helping us do that. It is helping the younger generation prepare for the civic role that they will undergo (Kornbluh 2). Social media helps play a major role in participating in political movements and bringing awareness to topics (Kornbluh 3). This all is done by the younger generation and would not be possible without them. So, while it is easy to look at the negative parts of social media and how it effects the younger generation, it also brings great awareness to real life problems in our world. This last article I wanted to go over dealing with this research question has to do with the pandemic. The article “Responses to COVID-19 in Higher Education: Social Media Usage for Sustaining Formal Academic Communication in Developing Countries” by Abu Elnasr E. Sobaih, Ahmed M. Hasanein and Ahmed E. Abu Elnasr briefly talks about communication with social media in higher education systems. Education systems had to switch from in person learning and communication to online learning, which was a struggle for everyone. Throughout the time that this took place, results showed that social media had a positive effect on students dealing with this (Sobaih 1). Students used social media to build a community and help support each other through this rough time. Through these results, proper usage of social media can be shown as a positive result for a new era of learning (Sobaih 1). This is just one more reason why social media can help us improve our future.

After answering my research questions, it has become clear to me that while social media does have negative aspects, the positive aspects outweigh them. Between the articles and my own research, I have enough evidence to prove that social media does effect communication, but in a more positive way. The way we act and present ourselves is heavily influenced by social media and communication between generations are different and can be seen that way. It is important to note the accomplishments we have made as a society with social media and the media in general. It has helped connect families, provide support groups, and provide entertainment in desperate times. Our communication has changed because of social media but has changed and helped us for the better in the long run. Keeping social media a positive place and staying away from the toxic people on it will only help us grow and learn new things about ourselves.

Works Cited

Boyd, Clark. “A Guide to Using Social Media in the Workplace in 2021.” The Blueprint , The Blueprint, 13 May 2020, www.fool.com/the-blueprint/social-media-in-the-workplace/.

https://www.fool.com/the-blueprint/social-media-in-the-workplace/

D, Valdez, et al. “Social Media Insights Into US Mental Health During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Longitudinal Analysis of Twitter Data.” Journal of Medical Internet Research , vol. 22, no. 12, 14 Dec. 2020, pp. 1438–8871.

http://eds.b.ebscohost.com.proxy.ulib.csuohio.edu:2050/eds/detail/detail? vid=8&sid=ff59b04c-b868-44cd-b864-4538e112a2ea%40sessionmgr103&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWRzLWxpdmUmc2NvcGU9c2l0ZQ%3d%3d#AN=33284783&db=mnh

J, Nesi. “The Impact of Social Media on Youth Health: Challenges and Opportunities.” North Carolina Medical Journal , vol. 81, no. 2, 2020, pp. 116–121.

http://eds.b.ebscohost.com.proxy.ulib.csuohio.edu:2050/eds/detail/detail?vid=10&sid=ff59b04c-b868-44cd-b864-4538e112a2ea%40sessionmgr103&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWRzLWxpdmUmc2NvcGU9c2l0ZQ%3d%3d#AN=32132255&db=mnh

Gee, James Paul. “What is literacy.” Negotiating academic literacies: Teaching and learning across languages and cultures (1998): 51-59.

https://academic.jamespaulgee.com/pdfs/Gee%20What%20is%20Literacy.pdf

Hanke, Stacey. “How Social Media Affects Our Ability to Communicate.” Thrive Global , 13 Sept. 2018, thriveglobal.com/stories/how-social-media-affects-our-ability-to-communicate/.

https://thriveglobal.com/stories/how-social-media-affects-our-ability-to-communicate/

http://eds.a.ebscohost.com.proxy.ulib.csuohio.edu:2050/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=4&sid=467b825c-34f8-4e47-95df-e5b2b61bbaf4%40sessionmgr4006

Kornbluh, Mariah Elsa. “Building Bridges.” Youth & Society , vol. 51, no. 8, 2017, pp. 1104–1126., doi:10.1177/0044118×17723656.

https://journals-sagepub-com.proxy.ulib.csuohio.edu/doi/pdf/10.1177/0044118X17723656

Retchin, Sarah, et al. “The Impact of Social Media Use on Social Skills.” New York Behavioral Health , 1 Dec. 2020, newyorkbehavioralhealth.com/the-impact-of-social-media-use-on-social-skills/.

https://newyorkbehavioralhealth.com/the-impact-of-social-media-use-on-social-skills/

Sobaih, Abu Elnasr E., et al. “Responses to COVID-19 in Higher Education: Social Media Usage for Sustaining Formal Academic Communication in Developing Countries.” MDPI , Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 12 Aug. 2020, www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/16/6520/htm.

https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/16/6520/htm

Tayeb, Seyed Mohammad, et al. “The Role of Information Systems in Communication through Social Media.” International Journal of Data and Network Science , vol. 3, no. 3, 2019, pp. 245–268., doi:10.5267/j.ijdns.2019.2.002.

http://www.growingscience.com/ijds/Vol3/ijdns_2019_15.pdf

Valsesia, Francesca, et al. “The Positive Effect of Not Following Others on Social Media .” Journal of Marketing Research , vol. 57, no. 6, Dec. 2020, pp. 1152–1168.

https://www.francescavalsesia.com/uploads/1/0/5/1/105151509/the_positive_effect_of_not_following_others_on_social_media.pdf

Understanding Literacy in Our Lives by Lindsey Matier is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Social Media — Social Media Pros and Cons

Social Media Pros and Cons

Categories: Effects of Social Media Internet Social Media

About this sample

Words: 889 |

Updated: 7 November, 2023

Words: 889 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Advantages of social media, disadvantages of social media, video version.

Hook Examples for Argumentative Essay on Social Media

A Startling Statistic: Did you know that over 3.6 billion people worldwide use social media? Join me as we explore the impact of this global phenomenon on our lives and society as a whole.
An Intriguing Quote: As Oscar Wilde once remarked, “Everything in moderation, including moderation.” These words prompt us to examine the balance between the benefits and drawbacks of social media in our lives.
A Personal Revelation: My own journey with social media led me to question its role in my life. Join me as I share my experiences and insights into the pros and cons of this omnipresent digital landscape.
A Societal Mirror: Social media reflects the best and worst of our society, from fostering connections to perpetuating misinformation. Explore with me how it both mirrors and shapes our cultural landscape.
An Evolving Debate: As technology advances and society changes, so does our understanding of social media’s impact. Join me in examining the ever-evolving debate surrounding the pros and cons of this powerful communication tool.
Van der Bank, C. M., & van der Bank, M. (2014). The impact of social media: advantages or disadvantages. African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure, 4(2), 1-9. (http://www.ajhtl.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_17_vol4(2)july-nov_2015.pdf)
Abudabbous, N. (2021). Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media and Its Effects on Young Learners. Available at SSRN 4002626. (https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4002626)
Holmes, W. S. (2011). Crisis communications and social media: Advantages, disadvantages and best practices. (https://trace.tennessee.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1003&context=ccisymposium)
Roebuck, D., Siha, S., & Bell, R. L. (2013). Faculty usage of social media and mobile devices: Analysis of advantages and concerns. Interdisciplinary Journal of E-Learning and Learning Objects, 9, 171. (https://digitalcommons.kennesaw.edu/facpubs/3171/)
Farrugia, R. C. (2013). Facebook and relationships: A study of how social media use is affecting long-term relationships. Rochester Institute of Technology. (https://www.proquest.com/openview/04bf6121089bb04b74dcaba7486bd814/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750)

Cite this Essay

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

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

Expert in: Sociology Information Science and Technology

+ 120 experts online

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!

Related Essays

6 pages / 2525 words

3 pages / 1329 words

6 pages / 2596 words

2 pages / 689 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Social Media

Phillips, D. (2016). The 2016 Cyberbullying Report. Cyberbullying Research Center. . Available: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2017/06/30/a-run-down-of-social-medias-effects-on-our-mental-health/?sh=5153a3861e2e

Shannon, C. E., & Weaver, W. (1949). The Mathematical Theory of Communication. University of Illinois Press.Lasswell, H. D. (1948). The Structure and Function of Communication in Society. In L. Bryson (Ed.), The Communication of [...]

Social media platforms have revolutionized the way information is disseminated and consumed, offering unparalleled connectivity and instant access to a vast array of content. However, this technological advancement has also [...]

ABC News. (2011). Twitter: The Political Sex Scandal Response Tool of the 21st Century. Retrieved from [...]

In the era of science and technology, it would be quite unusual to find anyone who does not have a social media account. Based on a research carried out by the Pew Research Center in 2013, forty-two percent of the internet users [...]

Ever since social media was introduced as such a necessary and almost vital part of our lives, several concerns have risen about the boundaries at which we must draw in terms of our privacy. The mass of information users pour [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

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

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

Social Media Essay

Essay on Social Media

Social media is the communal interaction among people in which they create, share or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities. It has become the basic need and quality of human beings to be social. The spectacular developments in communications and innovative and astonishing entertainment have given access to information and the ability to provide a voice for people who would never have been heard. The current generation is fortunate enough to witness some of the most amazing technological developments ever in history. It has become the rage of this age.

What are Some of the Most Widely used Social Media Platforms?

Simply put, let us understand the factors that have contributed to the popularity and widespread use of social media platforms in recent years. Many observers believe that the number of "active users" has something to do with the situation. This factor has a significant impact on the growth of the organization, its attractiveness, and its participation.

These applications serve as the building blocks for a large number of other applications as well. Currently, Facebook is the most popular social networking site on the planet, with more than 2.7 billion active monthly members worldwide. Each social media platform owned by the same company, including Facebook (the company's most popular forum), WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram, has more than 1 billion monthly active users.

In addition, as the number of people who use social media continues to grow, it becomes increasingly clear how important social media has become in today's society.

Monograph on Social Media Use - An Introduction

People always want to connect themselves with society in some or another way. In earlier days, the modes of communication were limited. People socialized with others in their tracks. Earlier, socializing was narrowed to visiting each other’s places, having big gatherings, meetings in clubs, parks, and other public areas.

Now the time has changed. People have minimized their social life because of hectic life and increase in geographical distance and economic concerns. With the arrival of technology, social networking websites and applications have heralded a revolution in the world. It has indeed brought people from all over the globe closer by creating, sharing, or exchanging information and ideas in virtual communities and networks. These social networking sites are based on web-based technologies and create highly interactive platforms. It has gained momentum globally because of its better features, access, frequency, immediacy, usability, and permanence. It has been recognized so widely, and its usage has increased so incredibly today that it has moved from desktop computers to laptops to mobile phones. The platform is undoubtedly easily obtainable and accessible.

Today, every person is addicted to social media, and that too at a glaring speed. Some important social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, etc., have provided us with the prospect to connect with people and foster better relationships with friends and acquaintances with whom we cannot meet personally and share the happenings of our lives. Some tools like YouTube, Instagram, Whatsapp, etc., have provided the platform to share pictures and videos with friends and relatives living in distant places.

B2B social, reviews, and travel sites in social media have made it easy and exciting for people to shop and discuss with friends and others about what they are buying. Some sites offer collective buying offers to give consumers a fun-filled shopping experience.

Social Media and Its Significance

Every person's daily routine involves some kind of social media interaction. Anyone, anywhere, at any time, can connect with you through social media as long as you have access to the internet.

While everyone was confined to their homes, unable to speak with anybody other than family and friends, it is critical to communicate with friends and family during Covid-19 to avoid being isolated. The outbreak resulted in social media being an essential tool for individuals to make entertaining videos and engage in social media challenges and activities, which helped keep people busy during these challenging circumstances.

As a result of the quick rise and extension of digital marketing, social media has played an essential part in this expansion. It's also a fantastic resource for finding information on a wide variety of topics. People may learn a great deal and stay up to date with the newest news worldwide by utilizing this. But there is always a drawback to every good that comes with it, no matter how beneficial. As a consequence, the following are some of the most significant advantages and disadvantages of social media in today's fast-paced society.

Benefits of Social Media

Social media sites are erasing differences in age and class. It has assumed a different dimension altogether through interactive sharing. It has now become a medium of mass reach at a minimum cost. Today, one can benefit from social sharing to build a reputation and bring in career opportunities.

They target a broad audience, making it a valuable and effective tool for society.

It reaches people even in remote areas, and the information is spread like fire.

Distance is no more a limitation because of social media. You are constantly updated with the latest news and happenings in the society and environment through social media websites.

Sites and blogs like Orkut, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and many more have become tools for people to connect across the globe. People can attend live talks or live sessions, or lectures happening anywhere in the world while staying at home.

Teachers and professors can teach on different topics from remote places.

You can now identify great possibilities for a job through multiple social media sites like LinkedIn, Google, Naukri, and job search.

Social media enables companies to use these sites as a network to generate awareness about their product, promote their brand, and increase their sales. It saves the cost of marketing and advertising.

These networking sites on social media provide a comprehensive platform for young aspiring artists to showcase their passion and skills.

Political leaders use the platform of social media for spreading social communication to mass. These days, the political candidates are also communicating with the voters through social media.

Nowadays, a person’s fame or popularity is determined by the number of links he has created with these social media sites.

It is an excellent educational tool.

It has the potential to increase public awareness of a range of societal issues.

Due to the speed with which data is transmitted over the internet, consumers can stay current on the latest developments.

Social media can be used to disseminate information to the media.

Additionally, there are some social benefits, such as communicating with long-distance family and friends.

It has the potential to open up incredible career opportunities online.

We believe that social media has a lot of positive effects, but we also recognize that, like anything else, it has some negative ones. Keep reading to gather an idea on the same.

Disadvantages of Social Media

However, social media has caused addiction to users. Despite huge benefits, it has some unfavorable consequences.

Users of social media are becoming victims of fraudulent and online scams that seem to be genuine.

It opens up a possibility for hackers to commit fraud and launch virus attacks.

The productivity of people is getting hampered due to extreme usage and indulgence in these social media sites.

Harmful and disrespectful comments and reviews from employees about the company hamper its image tremendously.

Students, too, are exceedingly active on social media sites these days, limiting them from outdoor activities.

Students indulge in disputes because of these social media, and sometimes school has to resolve the conflicts.

Some sites are used to express personal anger or dispute, due to which a lot of chaos and confusion is created.

Investigate whether it is possible to cheat on tests.

As a result, students' grades and performance have suffered.

Users are more vulnerable to cybersecurity threats such as hacking, data theft, spamming, and other similar crimes due to a lack of privacy.

Social media has both benefits and drawbacks. Using it productively can be a tool of immense help, but over usage can become a silent enemy. Thus, we as users have to learn to balance and not control ourselves by this technology.

FAQs on Social Media Essay

Q1. What do you Understand by Social Media?

Social media is the communal interaction among people in which they create, share or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities.

Q2. How has Social Media benefited Society?

Social media has incredibly benefited society. It has erased the age and class barrier. Social media sites target a wide audience. People can connect with each other from any corner of the world. Distance is no more a limitation. Teachers and students are connecting through social media tools. People find jobs, shop and share reviews and discuss with others. It is a comprehensive platform for people to showcase their talents and passion.

Q3. What are the disadvantages of Social Media?

The disadvantages of social media are that youth is getting hooked to it inappropriately. People are falling into prey to fraudulent and illegal activities. Too much indulgence in social media is hampering the productivity of people.

Q4. How has Social Media brought a Change in Human’s Lives?

In earlier days, humans did not have too many means of communication. This was the reason why they did not socialize much. Even if they did, their socialization was narrowed to meeting their own relatives or friends in a close circle. People could not explore much about what was happening around the globe. The job seekers were restricted to finding jobs through someone or a newspaper. Now, technology has brought a revolution in the lives of people. Distance is no more a constraint for communication. People can communicate with anyone from anywhere in the world. The entire information about what is happening across the globe is available at the touch of our fingertips. Job seekers have not only widened their horizon of finding jobs but also given interviews on social media platforms. Social media has made the lives of people much simpler, easier, and faster.

Q5. In what ways does social media influence our lives?

The emergence of social media has had a considerable influence on people's lives. Using social media in one's everyday life allows one to communicate, interact, and be sociable while also learning about current events, creating a variety of meals, educating oneself, traveling to any place, and taking advantage of many other perks.

Q6. Which social networking sites are the most well-known?

There are several social media platforms where you may utilize Youtube Messenger. These include Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, Whatsapp, and Pinterest.

Q7. Does social media have a role in our overall well-being?

Social media sites have the following roles in our overall well-being.

Social media addiction may cause physical and psychological harm to the person using it excessively, including eye strain, social disengagement, and disturbed sleep.

If you spend too much time fighting and disagreeing, this might harm your health in the long run.

In terms of emotional relationships, social media may be a great way to meet new people and keep in contact with individuals you already know. Building relationships with others is beneficial.

Social media is a veritable informational treasure trove when it comes to staying healthy. This has several benefits. Doubtful information might be just as damaging as not thoroughly investigating it.

Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Read our research on:

Full Topic List

Regions & Countries

Publications
Our Methods
Short Reads
Tools & Resources

Read Our Research On:

Which social media platforms are most common, who uses each social media platform, find out more, social media fact sheet.

Many Americans use social media to connect with one another, engage with news content, share information and entertain themselves. Explore the patterns and trends shaping the social media landscape.

To better understand Americans’ social media use, Pew Research Center surveyed 5,733 U.S. adults from May 19 to Sept. 5, 2023. Ipsos conducted this National Public Opinion Reference Survey (NPORS) for the Center using address-based sampling and a multimode protocol that included both web and mail. This way nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race and ethnicity, education and other categories.

Polls from 2000 to 2021 were conducted via phone. For more on this mode shift, read our Q&A.

Here are the questions used for this analysis , along with responses, and its methodology .

A note on terminology: Our May-September 2023 survey was already in the field when Twitter changed its name to “X.” The terms Twitter and X are both used in this report to refer to the same platform.

YouTube and Facebook are the most-widely used online platforms. About half of U.S. adults say they use Instagram, and smaller shares use sites or apps such as TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter (X) and BeReal.

Year	YouTube	Facebook	Instagram	Pinterest	TikTok	LinkedIn	WhatsApp	Snapchat	Twitter (X)	Reddit	BeReal	Nextdoor
8/5/2012		54%	9%	10%		16%			13%
8/7/2012									14%
12/9/2012			11%	13%					13%
12/16/2012		57%
5/19/2013									15%
7/14/2013									16%
9/16/2013		57%	14%	17%		17%			14%
9/30/2013									16%
1/26/2014									16%
9/21/2014		58%	21%	22%		23%			19%
4/12/2015		62%	24%	26%		22%			20%
4/4/2016		68%	28%	26%		25%			21%
1/10/2018	73%	68%	35%	29%		25%	22%	27%	24%
2/7/2019	73%	69%	37%	28%		27%	20%	24%	22%	11%
2/8/2021	81%	69%	40%	31%	21%	28%	23%	25%	23%	18%		13%
9/5/2023	83%	68%	47%	35%	33%	30%	29%	27%	22%	22%	3%

Note: The vertical line indicates a change in mode. Polls from 2012-2021 were conducted via phone. In 2023, the poll was conducted via web and mail. For more details on this shift, please read our Q&A . Refer to the topline for more information on how question wording varied over the years. Pre-2018 data is not available for YouTube, Snapchat or WhatsApp; pre-2019 data is not available for Reddit; pre-2021 data is not available for TikTok; pre-2023 data is not available for BeReal. Respondents who did not give an answer are not shown.

Source: Surveys of U.S. adults conducted 2012-2023.

Usage of the major online platforms varies by factors such as age, gender and level of formal education.

% of U.S. adults who say they ever use __ by …

RACE & ETHNICITY
POLITICAL AFFILIATION

	Ages 18-29	30-49	50-64	65+
Facebook	67	75	69	58
Instagram	78	59	35	15
LinkedIn	32	40	31	12
Twitter (X)	42	27	17	6
Pinterest	45	40	33	21
Snapchat	65	30	13	4
YouTube	93	92	83	60
WhatsApp	32	38	29	16
Reddit	44	31	11	3
TikTok	62	39	24	10
BeReal	12	3	1	<1

	Men	Women
Facebook	59	76
Instagram	39	54
LinkedIn	31	29
Twitter (X)	26	19
Pinterest	19	50
Snapchat	21	32
YouTube	82	83
WhatsApp	27	31
Reddit	27	17
TikTok	25	40
BeReal	2	5

	White	Black	Hispanic	Asian*
Facebook	69	64	66	67
Instagram	43	46	58	57
LinkedIn	30	29	23	45
Twitter (X)	20	23	25	37
Pinterest	36	28	32	30
Snapchat	25	25	35	25
YouTube	81	82	86	93
WhatsApp	20	31	54	51
Reddit	21	14	23	36
TikTok	28	39	49	29
BeReal	3	1	4	9

	Less than $30,000	$30,000- $69,999	$70,000- $99,999	$100,000+
Facebook	63	70	74	68
Instagram	37	46	49	54
LinkedIn	13	19	34	53
Twitter (X)	18	21	20	29
Pinterest	27	34	35	41
Snapchat	27	30	26	25
YouTube	73	83	86	89
WhatsApp	26	26	33	34
Reddit	12	23	22	30
TikTok	36	37	34	27
BeReal	3	3	3	5

	High school or less	Some college	College graduate+
Facebook	63	71	70
Instagram	37	50	55
LinkedIn	10	28	53
Twitter (X)	15	24	29
Pinterest	26	42	38
Snapchat	26	32	23
YouTube	74	85	89
WhatsApp	25	23	39
Reddit	14	23	30
TikTok	35	38	26
BeReal	3	4	4

	Urban	Suburban	Rural
Facebook	66	68	70
Instagram	53	49	38
LinkedIn	31	36	18
Twitter (X)	25	26	13
Pinterest	31	36	36
Snapchat	29	26	27
YouTube	85	85	77
WhatsApp	38	30	20
Reddit	29	24	14
TikTok	36	31	33
BeReal	4	4	2

	Rep/Lean Rep	Dem/Lean Dem
Facebook	70	67
Instagram	43	53
LinkedIn	29	34
Twitter (X)	20	26
Pinterest	35	35
Snapchat	27	28
YouTube	82	84
WhatsApp	25	33
Reddit	20	25
TikTok	30	36
BeReal	4	4

This fact sheet was compiled by Research Assistant Olivia Sidoti , with help from Research Analyst Risa Gelles-Watnick , Research Analyst Michelle Faverio , Digital Producer Sara Atske , Associate Information Graphics Designer Kaitlyn Radde and Temporary Researcher Eugenie Park .

Follow these links for more in-depth analysis of the impact of social media on American life.

Americans’ Social Media Use Jan. 31, 2024
Americans’ Use of Mobile Technology and Home Broadband Jan. 31 2024
Q&A: How and why we’re changing the way we study tech adoption Jan. 31, 2024

Find more reports and blog posts related to internet and technology .

1615 L St. NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 USA (+1) 202-419-4300 | Main (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax (+1) 202-419-4372 | Media Inquiries

Research Topics

Email Newsletters

ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts .

Social Media and Body Image Essay

How it works

Have you ever looked in the mirror and said something negative about yourself?

According to the Merriam Webster dictionary body image is, “”a subjective picture of one’s own physical appearance established both by self-observation and by noting the reactions of other. Negative body image and low self-esteem are real problems and I want to discover the causes, how much of a factor social media is, and ways that people can get help to move past it.

Many people see things they do not like about their body that others do not even notice.

Negative body image is on the rise and some believe that it could be due to mass media. There is a high quantity of research being done because negative body image does not need to happen. Most researchers are focusing on the main causes of low self-esteem and body image, the effects mass media has created, and how someone can overcome their problems.

Researchers are identifying what in the first-place causes someone to one day love their body to all of the sudden hating it. Negative body-image and low self-esteem are very similar things. Low self-esteem is when someone lacks confidence in themselves often. According to the “”Department of Health & Human Services, (Department of Health & Human Services May 2014), some of the causes for low self-esteem are an unhappy childhood, poor academic performance, a stressful life, poor treatment from a partner or parent, ongoing medical issues, and also mental illness. In another article the Department of Health & Human Services, (Department of Health & Human Services August 2014) states that things such as, being teased about the way one looked in their childhood, having dieting parents, and the medias tendency to promote thinner people, are all causes of negative body image. All of these things that are listed above are things that could lead to low self-esteem and create a negative body image. Through exploration one can discover that there are many things that are said to cause negative body image and low self-esteem. Another cause of negative body image is fat talk.

Some researchers are also discovering what fat talk is and why it happens. Fat talk is as simple as its name suggests. It is talking about someone’s body in a negative way while emphasizing on weight and shape. In the journal, “”Body Image, (Chow, Hart, Tan 2018) it states that 93% of young women had fat talked while only 11% of men had been in this situation. Fat talk could be talking about oneself or it could also be talking about someone else’s body. No matter how it is being done such as about oneself, someone else’s body, or even their appearance it could affect them more than people realize. In the article, “”Fat Talk, written by Sarah Royal for “”The National Eating Disorder Information Centre (Fat Talk 2012) she states that fat talk often happens, and it is not realized that it is being done. These fat talk conversations also happen very often in the dressing room while people are trying on clothing. Social media is said to have caused a raise in the amount of fat talk online.

Researchers are discovering what amount of negative body image and low self-esteem that mass media is blamed for. Social media can be used for very good things, but it can also cause some not so good things. There have been studies that show that when someone looks at a picture of a skinny model they then compare themselves to that model. In the journal “”#SocialMedia, (Santarossa & Woodruff 2017), it explains that the online environment is full of pictures of celebrity and models for someone to compare themselves to other people. Social media is also used as a platform for influencers to help others with things that they themselves have gone through in the past. Richard Perloff says that the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia have all conducted experiments and research that have evidence that social media has effects on body image problems (Perloff 2014). With the rise of users on social media there are a lot of opportunities for people to see others and compare their body to the fit model on social media. Fat talk and social media may cause negative body image and low self-esteem but how does someone who has these things get over it?

Once someone has low self-esteem and see their body negatively, it is very important that they seek help or work on gaining confidence themselves. According to “”The Department of Health and Human Services a few ways to build one’s self-esteem are talking to oneself positively, do not compare yourself to others, do not worry, and there are also many more small things someone can do. People should always talk positively about themselves but if someone is going through low self-esteem it is very important that they find something positive to talk about. One way that would be very simple is to find something positive that they like about themselves every day and this will eventually be a habit. Comparing to others is a very easy thing to do especially because with every advertisement if there is someone on the ad then it is normally a skinny, beautiful girl or a fit, muscular guy. If someone worries often then it is very easy to worry about their body and what everyone else thinks about them but that should not matter. What other people say about you should not bother you at all, but this is easier to say then to actually do. As Bob Marley said, “”Don’t worry be happy.

According to the BYU Counseling Center, at any one point in time 50% of women are on a diet. BYU also reports that 14% of five-year-old girls say that they go on diets. It also stated in the article that 98% of people who diet gain their weight back in five years (Ways to Overcome a Negative Body Image, BYU). Another thing to take in to account when someone is trying to get over their negative body image is their genetics. Everyone is made a different way and not one person looks exactly the same as another. According to “”Building Self-esteem: A Self-Help Guide (Building Self-esteem: A Self-Help Guide), a few other things someone can do to help themself are things such as, wear outfits that make someone feel good about themselves, do things nice to other people and it will make them feel good, and they could also reward themselves for little things that they have accomplished. In conclusion there are many ways for someone to get over their negative body image and low self-esteem problems.

As you can see, negative body image and low self-esteem are major problems in our society today. This can be caused by things such as social media, family problems, academic problems, fat talk, and many other things. People are constantly researching to find what specific things trigger negative body image and low self-esteem. As often as they are researching what causes it, they are also researching what can be done to help people who have already been affected to get over this. There are many more things to be discovered about negative body image and its causes.

In the future I plan on arguing that women are more effected with body image and self-esteem problems than men. Everyone needs to be informed about the causes of negative body images and also how to recover from negative body images and self-esteem, but I want to look at the research on who is affected more and I believe it is young women.

Cite this page

Social Media and Body Image Essay. (2019, Aug 23). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/social-media-and-body-image-essay/

"Social Media and Body Image Essay." PapersOwl.com , 23 Aug 2019, https://papersowl.com/examples/social-media-and-body-image-essay/

PapersOwl.com. (2019). Social Media and Body Image Essay . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/social-media-and-body-image-essay/ [Accessed: 22 Jun. 2024]

"Social Media and Body Image Essay." PapersOwl.com, Aug 23, 2019. Accessed June 22, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/social-media-and-body-image-essay/

"Social Media and Body Image Essay," PapersOwl.com , 23-Aug-2019. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/social-media-and-body-image-essay/. [Accessed: 22-Jun-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2019). Social Media and Body Image Essay . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/social-media-and-body-image-essay/ [Accessed: 22-Jun-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

Supported by

Surgeon General Calls for Warning Labels on Social Media Platforms

Dr. Vivek Murthy said he would urge Congress to require a warning that social media use can harm teenagers’ mental health.

Share full article

Surgeon General Vivek Murthy speaking and holding a microphone. He is wearing a dark blue military jacket.

By Ellen Barry and Cecilia Kang

The U.S. surgeon general, Dr. Vivek Murthy, announced on Monday that he would push for a warning label on social media platforms advising parents that using the platforms might damage adolescents’ mental health.

Warning labels — like those that appear on tobacco and alcohol products — are one of the most powerful tools available to the nation’s top health official, but Dr. Murthy cannot unilaterally require them; the action requires approval by Congress.

The proposal builds on several years of escalating warnings from the surgeon general. In a May 2023 advisory, he recommended that parents immediately set limits on phone use, and urged Congress to swiftly develop health and safety standards for technology platforms.

He also called on tech companies to make changes: to share internal data on the health impact of their products; to allow independent safety audits; and restrict features like push notifications, autoplay and infinite scroll, which he says “prey on developing brains and contribute to excessive use.”

In an interview, Dr. Murthy said he had been deeply frustrated by the platforms’ reluctance to do so.

“I don’t think we can solely rely on the hope that the platforms can fix this problem on their own,” he said. “They’ve had 20 years.”

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber? Log in .

Want all of The Times? Subscribe .

Three teenage girls sitting outdoors on concrete wall and looking at their smartphones.

Surgeon general’s call for warning labels on social media underscores concerns for teen mental health

Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Disclosure statement

Emily Hemendinger does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus provides funding as a member of The Conversation US.

View all partners

Amid growing concerns over the effects of social media on teen mental health, on June 17, 2024, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called for warning labels to be added to social media platforms, similar to surgeon general warnings on cigarettes and alcohol.

Murphy’s warning cited research showing that teens who use more than three hours of social media a day face double the risk of mental health problems .

This comes a year after Murphy issued a major public advisory over the links between social media and youth mental health.

As a specialist in eating disorders and anxiety , I regularly work with clients who experience eating disorder symptoms, self-esteem issues and anxiety related to social media .

I also have firsthand experience with this topic : I am 16 years post-recovery from an eating disorder, and as a teenager, I grew up when people were beginning to widely use social media. In my view, the impact of social media on mental health, especially on diet and exercise patterns, cannot simply be mitigated with a warning label. However, it is an important starting point for raising awareness of the harms of social media.

Links, associations and causal effects

Experts have long suspected that social media may be playing a role in the growing mental health crisis in young people . However, the surgeon general’s 2023 warning was one of the first government warnings supported by robust research .

Critics of the call for warning labels argue that it oversimplifies a complex issue and that limiting social media access in any way would do more harm than good. Some supporters feel that it is a step in the right direction and far less restrictive than trying to start with more widespread privacy regulations.

And so far, calls for action over regulating social media have fallen flat .

Researchers are limited to only studying associations, which make causal links difficult to establish. But there are numerous studies that do show a relationship between viewing media and worsened self-esteem, body image and mental health.

Additionally, there is scientific data that has shown the effectiveness of including warning labels to deter use of substances such as tobacco and alcohol .

However, the strategy of warning labels has been used for eating disorder content and digitally altered images on the internet, with mixed results . These studies showed that the warning labels do not reduce the negative impact of the media on body image. Some of the research even found that the warning labels might increase body and appearance comparisons , which are thought to be key reasons why social media can be harmful to self-esteem.

Potential harms

Research shows that images of beauty as depicted in movies, social media, television and magazines can lead to mental illness , issues with disordered eating and body image dissatisfaction .

Body dissatisfaction among children and adolescents is commonplace and has been linked to decreased quality of life, worsened mood and unhealthy eating habits.

The mental health of adolescents and teens has been declining for the past decade , and the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to worsening youth mental health and brought it into the spotlight. As the mental health crisis surges, researchers have been taking a close look at the role of social media in these increasing mental health concerns.

The pros and cons of social media

About 95% of children and adolescents in the U.S. between the ages of 10 and 17 are using social media almost constantly . A 2023 study found that teens spend about five hours per day on social media.

Research has shown that social media can be beneficial for finding community support . However, studies have also shown that the use of social media contributes to social comparisons, unrealistic expectations and negative mental health effects .

In addition, those who have preexisting mental health conditions tend to spend more time on social media. People in that category are more likely to self-objectify and internalize the thin body ideal . Women and people with preexisting body image concerns are more likely than others to feel worse about their bodies and themselves after they spend time on social media.

A breeding ground for eating disorders?

A recent review found that, as with mass media, the use of social media is a risk factor for the development of an eating disorder , body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating. In this review, social media use was shown to contribute to negative self-esteem, social comparisons, decreased emotional regulation and idealized self-presentation that negatively influenced body image.

Another study, called the Dove Self-Esteem Project , published in April 2023, found that 9 in 10 children and adolescents ages 10 to 17 are exposed to toxic beauty content on social media, and 1 in 2 say that this has an impact on their mental health.

Researchers have also found that increased time at home during the pandemic led to more social media use by young people and therefore more exposure to toxic body image and dieting social media content.

While social media alone will not cause eating disorders, societal beliefs about beauty , which are amplified by social media, can contribute to the development of eating disorders.

‘Thinspo’ and ‘fitspo’

Toxic beauty standards online include the normalization of cosmetic and surgical procedures and pro-eating-disorder content, which promotes and romanticizes eating disorders. For instance, social media sites have promoted trends such as “thinspo,” which is focused on the thin ideal, and “fitspo,” which perpetuates the belief of there being a perfect body that can be achieved with dieting, supplements and excessive exercise.

Research has shown that social media content encouraging “clean eating ” or following a diet based on pseudoscientific claims can lead to obsessive behavior around food. These unfounded “wellness” posts can lead to weight cycling, yo-yo dieting , chronic stress, body dissatisfaction and higher likelihood of muscular and thin-ideal internalization .

Some social media posts feature pro-eating-disorder content , which directly or indirectly encourages disordered eating. Other posts promote deliberate manipulation of one’s body, using harmful quotes such as “nothing tastes as good as thin feels.” These posts provide a false sense of connection, allowing users to bond over a shared goal of losing weight, altering their appearance and continuing patterns of disordered eating.

While young people can often recognize and understand toxic beauty advice’s effects on their self-esteem, they may still continue to engage with this content. This is in part because friends, influencers and social media algorithms encourage people to follow certain accounts.

Phone-free zones

Small steps at home to cut down on social media consumption can also make a difference. Parents and caregivers can create phone-free periods for the family. Examples of this include putting phones away while the family watches a movie together or during mealtimes.

Adults can also help by modeling healthy social media behaviors and encouraging children and adolescents to focus on building connections and engaging in valued activities .

Mindful social media consumption is another helpful approach. This requires recognizing what one is feeling during social media scrolling. If spending time on social media makes you feel worse about yourself or seems to be causing mood changes in your child, it may be time to change how you or your child interact with social media.

This is an updated version of an article originally published on June 7, 2023 .

Social media
Eating disorders
Youth mental health
Self-esteem
Warning labels
Social media use
Body dysmorphia
Eating disorders in teens

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

Health Safety and Wellbeing Advisor

Social Media Producer

Dean (Head of School), Indigenous Knowledges

Senior Research Fellow - Curtin Institute for Energy Transition (CIET)

Essay on Body Shaming

Introduction

You’re scrolling through your social media feed, and all you see are perfectly sculpted bodies, flawless faces, and curated lifestyles. It’s a common scenario in today’s digital age, where the pressure to adhere to unrealistic beauty standards is ubiquitous. This pervasive phenomenon, known as body shaming, extends far beyond the confines of the online world, infiltrating our daily lives and shaping our perceptions of self-worth. Body shaming appears in various forms, ranging from subtle remarks about weight to blatant ridicule based on appearance, impacting individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. In this essay, we delve into the depths of body shaming, examining its origins, impacts, and the imperative need for change in our society.

Understanding Body Shaming

Body shaming refers to making critical, derogatory, or judgmental comments about someone’s body size, shape, appearance, or physical attributes.

Watch our Demo Courses and Videos

Valuation, Hadoop, Excel, Mobile Apps, Web Development & many more.

Weight-based: This is perhaps the most prevalent form of body shaming, where individuals are ridiculed or stigmatized for being either underweight or overweight. Terms like “fat,” “skinny,” “obese,” or “anorexic” are used to label and marginalize people based solely on their body size.
Appearance-based: Body shaming can also target specific physical features such as height, facial features, skin color, or body proportions. People may face mockery or discrimination for traits they have little control over, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-consciousness.
Disability-based: Individuals with visible disabilities or differences often experience body shaming due to societal misconceptions and prejudices. They may be subjected to pity, objectification, or derogatory remarks, further marginalizing them and reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
Age-based shaming is discriminating against individuals based on their age, such as ridiculing older individuals for signs of aging or younger individuals for their youthful appearance.
Verbal: Directly commenting on someone’s appearance or making derogatory remarks about their body in conversation or online.
Non-verbal: Expressing disapproval or judgment through gestures, facial expressions, or body language.
Digital: Engaging in body shaming through social media platforms, including posting hurtful comments, sharing memes, or participating in online harassment.

3. Perpetrators

Individuals: Friends, family members, peers, or strangers who make negative remarks.
Media: Advertisements, movies, TV shows, and magazines that promote unrealistic beauty standards.
Society: Cultural norms and societal expectations that reinforce body shaming behaviors.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

Body shaming isn’t a recent occurrence but has deep historical and cultural roots. Understanding its historical and cultural contexts provides valuable insights into its origins and evolution:

Ancient Civilizations: Physical beauty was highly esteemed in ancient civilizations such as Rome and Greece, but ideals varied significantly from modern standards. For example, ancient Greeks often associated a fuller figure with fertility and prosperity, while ancient Romans favored a more slender physique. However, even in these societies, there were standards of beauty that not everyone could attain, leading to exclusion and judgment based on physical appearance. Individuals who deviated from these ideals were often marginalized or ridiculed.
Medieval and Renaissance Periods: Throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, beauty standards transformed in tandem with societal and religious convictions. For instance, in medieval Europe, plumpness was considered a sign of wealth and abundance, reflecting one’s ability to afford food. However, the Renaissance ushered in a revival of classical ideals, emphasizing symmetry, proportion, and idealized body shapes inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art. This aesthetic shift marginalized individuals who did not conform to these standards.
Victorian Era and Industrial Revolution: The Victorian era created a strict moral code emphasizing modesty and virtue, particularly for women. Society expected women to maintain a delicate and demure appearance, and corsets and restrictive clothing shaped their bodies to fit ideals. The Industrial Revolution further exacerbated body image issues, as mass production and consumerism commodified beauty products and fashion. Advertisements promoted unattainable beauty standards, fostering insecurities and self-doubt among the populace.
20th Century and Modern Era: The 20th century witnessed significant shifts in beauty standards, influenced by changes in fashion , media, and social norms. The rise of Hollywood and the fashion industry propelled thinness and youthfulness to the forefront of beauty ideals, perpetuating the myth of the “perfect” body. With the advent of television , magazines, and later, the internet and social media, body shaming became more pervasive and insidious. Celebrities and influencers became arbiters of beauty, setting unrealistic standards that many felt compelled to emulate.
Cultural Diversity: Cultural attitudes toward body image vary significantly across different regions. For instance, in certain African cultures, larger body size is linked with wealth, health, and fertility, while in Western societies, thinness is often idealized. In Japan, a cultural phenomenon known as “kawaii culture” celebrates cuteness and youthful innocence. However, this emphasis on youthfulness can also create pressure to maintain a petite and childlike appearance, leading to body dissatisfaction among some individuals.

The Impact of Body Shaming

Body shaming has profound psychological, emotional, and social repercussions on individuals, eroding their self-esteem and leading to various adverse consequences. Understanding the impact of body shaming is essential to grasp the seriousness of this issue and its far-reaching consequences:

Low Self-Esteem and Body Image Disturbance: Body shaming erodes self-esteem and contributes to a distorted body image, where individuals perceive themselves negatively and feel dissatisfied with their appearance. Constant criticism and ridicule about one’s body size, shape, or features can lead to feelings of shame, self-consciousness, and inadequacy.
Anxiety and Depression: The relentless pressure to conform to societal beauty standards perpetuated by body shaming can exacerbate anxiety and depression. Individuals may experience heightened levels of stress, fear of judgment, and social anxiety , leading to persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.
Eating Disorders: The emergence of eating disorders such as bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa is strongly associated with body shaming. Criticism and pressure to achieve an idealized body shape or weight can trigger disordered eating behaviors as individuals resort to extreme measures to attain perceived perfection and control over their bodies.
Social Withdrawal and Isolation: The stigma and shame linked to body shaming can prompt individuals to withdraw from social interactions and steer clear of situations where they feel exposed or vulnerable. Fear of judgment and rejection may lead to social isolation, loneliness, and a diminished quality of life.
Impact on Relationships: Body shaming can strain interpersonal relationships, affecting both romantic partnerships and friendships. Individuals may struggle to trust others, express vulnerability, or maintain intimacy due to feelings of insecurity and inadequacy stemming from body shaming experiences.
Workplace Discrimination: Body shaming can spill over into professional settings, where individuals may face discrimination or bias based on their appearance. Research has shown that overweight individuals, in particular, are more likely to experience workplace discrimination, including lower job opportunities, salary disparities, and negative performance evaluations.
Health Consequences: Beyond the psychological and social impacts, body shaming can have tangible health consequences. Stress-related conditions, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and immune system dysfunction, are associated with chronic exposure to stigma and discrimination.
Long-Term Effects: The effects of body shaming can persist long-term, influencing life choices, behaviors, and overall well-being. Individuals may internalize negative beliefs about themselves, leading to a lifelong struggle with body image issues and mental health disorders.

The Role of Social Media in Body Shaming

Social media platforms have become both a battleground and a breeding ground for body shaming, perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and facilitating the spread of harmful attitudes and behaviors. Memes and viral examples often serve as poignant illustrations of how social media contributes to body shaming:

The “Body Transformation” Trend: Social media platforms are rife with before-and-after photos showcasing dramatic body transformations achieved through dieting, exercise, or cosmetic procedures. While some may celebrate these transformations as inspirational success stories, they can also perpetuate harmful messages about the importance of achieving a certain body ideal. Furthermore, prioritizing physical appearance over health and well-being can induce feelings of inadequacy and pressure to conform.
The “Thinspiration” and “Fitspiration” Phenomenon: Hashtags like #thinspiration and #fitspiration are commonly used on social media to share images, quotes, and motivational messages about weight loss, dieting, and fitness. While intended to inspire and motivate, these posts can often promote unhealthy behaviors, body dissatisfaction, and comparison. They may also reinforce the misconception that thinness or muscularity equals happiness, success, or self-worth.
The Rise of “Body Positive” Influencers: In response to the prevalence of body shaming on social media, many influencers and content creators advocate for body positivity, self-love, and acceptance. These influencers use their platforms to challenge beauty norms, celebrate diversity, and promote inclusivity. By sharing authentic, unfiltered content that celebrates bodies of all shapes, sizes, and abilities, they offer a counter-narrative to mainstream media’s narrow beauty ideals.
The “Expectation vs. Reality” Meme: One prevalent meme format on social media juxtaposes idealized images of celebrities, influencers, or models with unfiltered, candid snapshots of real people. These memes highlight the stark contrast between the curated perfection on social media and the everyday reality of human bodies. By reinforcing the idea that perfection is unattainable and often deceptive, these memes shed light on the detrimental effects of comparing oneself to unrealistic standards.
The Spread of Viral Challenges and Trends: Social media platforms often host viral challenges and trends that inadvertently promote body shaming or encourage risky behaviors. For example, challenges like the “waistline challenge” or the “collarbone challenge” encourage individuals to measure their physical attributes against arbitrary beauty standards, fostering feelings of inadequacy and body dissatisfaction.
The Influence of Filters and Photo Editing Apps: Filters, editing tools, and photo manipulation apps allow users to alter their appearance in photos, smoothing out imperfections, enhancing features, and achieving an idealized version of themselves. While these tools can be enjoyable and inventive, they contribute to unrealistic beauty standards and distort perceptions of reality. Users might feel compelled to portray a flawless image of themselves online, resulting in feelings of insecurity and comparison with unattainable standards.

Importance of Self-Acceptance and Body Positivity:

Here are several reasons highlighting their importance:

Enhanced Mental Health: Self-acceptance and body positivity are closely related to improved mental health outcomes, such as increased stress resilience, decreased anxiety and depression symptoms, and increased self-esteem. Regardless of appearance, embracing oneself as worthy and valuable cultivates a sense of inner peace and contentment.
Increased Self-Confidence: Embracing one’s body and accepting oneself as deserving of love and respect boosts self-confidence and self-efficacy. When individuals feel comfortable and confident in their skin, they are more likely to pursue their goals, assert themselves in social situations, and engage in meaningful relationships without fear of judgment or rejection.
Promotion of Diversity and Inclusivity: Body positivity celebrates diversity and challenges narrow beauty ideals, promoting inclusivity and acceptance of bodies of all sizes, shapes, and abilities. By embracing diverse representations of beauty, individuals can cultivate empathy, compassion, and respect for others’ unique experiences and perspectives.
Improved Body Image Satisfaction: Embracing self-acceptance and body positivity fosters a more positive body image. Individuals appreciate and celebrate their bodies for their strength, resilience, and inherent worth. People can concentrate on fostering healthy relationships with their bodies based on self-care and self-compassion instead of aiming for unachievable perfection.
Empowerment and Self-Expression: Body positivity and self-acceptance enable people to take back control of their bodies and claim their freedom of expression. By rejecting external judgments and embracing authenticity, individuals can explore their identities, pursue their passions, and advocate for their needs and boundaries without apology or shame.
Social and Cultural Change: Embracing self-acceptance and body positivity is transformative on an individual level and contributes to broader social and cultural change. One way that people can promote equality, diversity, and inclusion for all bodies is by opposing long-standing systems of oppression and discrimination through policies, practices, and representations.

Combating Body Shaming

Body shaming is a pervasive issue that requires concerted efforts from individuals, communities, and institutions to address effectively. Taking proactive steps to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviors, promote body positivity, and foster a culture of acceptance and respect. Here are several strategies for combating body shaming:

Promote Self-Acceptance and Self-Love: Encourage individuals to embrace self-acceptance and practice self-love by celebrating their unique qualities, strengths, and accomplishments. Create a welcoming atmosphere where people of all shapes and sizes feel appreciated and respected.
Educate and Raise Awareness: Raise awareness of the need to promote body positivity and the negative repercussions of body shaming. Provide education and resources on body diversity , media literacy, and the impact of societal beauty standards on mental health.
Challenge Stereotypes and Beauty Ideals: Challenge narrow beauty ideals and stereotypes perpetuated by media, advertising, and popular culture. Celebrate diverse representations of beauty and challenge harmful messages that equate worth with appearance.
Practice Empathy and Compassion: Cultivate empathy and compassion towards individuals experiencing body shaming or body dissatisfaction. Listen without judgment, validate their experiences, and offer support and encouragement.
Call Out Body Shaming Behaviors: Speak out against body shaming behaviors in everyday online or offline interactions. Challenge derogatory comments, jokes, or stereotypes that perpetuate harmful attitudes toward body size, shape, or appearance.
Promote Positive Body Image in Media and Advertising: Advocate for responsible and inclusive media representation that reflects the diversity of human bodies and celebrates authenticity. Support brands and content creators that promote positive body image and reject harmful beauty standards.
Support Body-Positive Movements and Organizations: Get involved in body-positive movements and organizations that advocate for change and promote acceptance of all bodies. Support initiatives that challenge discrimination, promote self-care, and foster empowerment.
Lead by Example: Lead by example and embody the principles of body positivity in your own life. Embrace self-acceptance, challenge internalized biases, and advocate for yourself and others. By demonstrating a commitment to acceptance and respect , you can inspire others to do the same.

What Can Schools and Parents Do?

Both schools and parents play crucial roles in shaping young individuals’ perceptions of themselves and others. Here are ways schools and parents can address body shaming and promote body positivity:

For Schools

Implement Body Positive Curriculum: Integrate body positivity and self-esteem-building activities into the school curriculum to promote acceptance and appreciation of diverse body types.
Provide Education on Media Literacy: Teach students critical media literacy skills to help them deconstruct and challenge unrealistic beauty standards portrayed in the media.
Create Inclusive Environments: Foster inclusive and supportive school environments where all students feel accepted, respected, and valued regardless of appearance.
Address Bullying and Discrimination: Implement anti-bullying policies and programs that specifically address body shaming and discrimination based on appearance.
Offer Counseling and Support Services: For students who might be having problems with their bodies or emotional suffering due to body shaming, make counseling and support groups available.

For Parents

Model Positive Body Image: Be mindful of your attitudes and behaviors towards body image and avoid negative comments about your or others’ appearances.
Encourage Open Communication: Create a secure area where they may voice their worries and emotions without worrying about being judged.
Promote Healthy Habits: Focus on promoting healthy habits such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep rather than focusing solely on weight or appearance.
Monitor Media Consumption: Monitor and limit exposure to media perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and promoting body dissatisfaction. Encourage critical thinking about media messages and imagery.
Be Supportive and Affirming: Offer unconditional love and support to your children, affirming their worth and value regardless of appearance. Focus on praising their efforts, achievements, and positive qualities.

Legal and Policy Measures

Legal and policy measures are critical for addressing systemic issues related to body shaming and promoting a culture of inclusivity and respect. These are a few possible legislative and policy actions. :

Anti-Discrimination Legislation: Enact and enforce anti-discrimination laws that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on body size, appearance, or physical attributes in employment, education, healthcare, housing, and public accommodations. Provide legal recourse for individuals who experience discrimination or harassment due to body shaming.
School Policies and Protocols: Develop and implement school policies and protocols that address body shaming, bullying, and harassment in educational settings. Schools should have clear procedures for reporting and addressing body shaming incidents and train staff to recognize and respond to such behavior.
Media Representation Guidelines: Establish guidelines and regulations for media representation to promote diversity, inclusivity, and responsible portrayal of body image in advertising, entertainment, and digital media. Require media outlets to adhere to standards that minimize promoting unrealistic beauty ideals and harmful stereotypes.
Social Media Regulation: Implement regulations and oversight mechanisms to address harmful content related to body shaming on social media platforms. Hold social media companies accountable for enforcing community standards prohibiting bullying, harassment, and hate speech based on appearance.
Healthcare Guidelines and Training: Develop healthcare guidelines and training programs for healthcare providers to address body shaming and promote patient-centered care. Require medical professionals to receive training on recognizing and addressing bias, stigma, and discrimination related to body size and appearance.
Employment Protections: Extend employment protections to include body size and appearance as protected characteristics under anti-discrimination laws. Enact policies that forbid employers from discriminating against employees or job applicants due to their appearance and mandate reasonable accommodations for individuals with body-related disabilities or medical conditions.

Addressing body shaming requires a multifaceted approach encompassing legal, policy, educational, and societal interventions. As per a study from the Body Image Council, in the last year, 20% of adults felt shame, 34% felt down or low, and 19% felt disgusted by their body image. Among teenagers, 37% felt upset, and 31% felt ashamed about their body image. Furthermore, concerns about body image led to suicidal thoughts or feelings in 13% of adults. By enacting anti-discrimination legislation, promoting media literacy, and fostering supportive environments in schools and communities, we can combat harmful beauty standards and promote body positivity. Empowering individuals to embrace their bodies, celebrate diversity, and cultivate self-acceptance is imperative. Together, we can create a world where everyone is respected and valued, irrespective of appearance. Always remember that YOU ARE PERFECT!

*Please provide your correct email id. Login details for this Free course will be emailed to you

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

Valuation, Hadoop, Excel, Web Development & many more.

Forgot Password?

This website or its third-party tools use cookies, which are necessary to its functioning and required to achieve the purposes illustrated in the cookie policy. By closing this banner, scrolling this page, clicking a link or continuing to browse otherwise, you agree to our Privacy Policy

Explore 1000+ varieties of Mock tests View more

Submit Next Question

🚀 Limited Time Offer! - 🎁 ENROLL NOW

US Surgeon General calls for warning labels on social media amid mental health 'emergency'

The U.S. Surgeon General called for social media companies to be required to use safety warning labels in a New York Times opinion essay published Monday.

Citing research that shows social media could be negatively impacting youth mental health , Dr. Vivek H. Murthy said a surgeon general's warning on social media platforms, similar to those on tobacco and alcohol products, could raise awareness for parents about the potential harm of the platforms.

"One of the worst things for a parent is to know your children are in danger yet be unable to do anything about it," Murthy wrote. "That is how parents tell me they feel when it comes to social media — helpless and alone in the face of toxic content and hidden harms."

NetChoice , a trade organization representing some social media companies, said in a statement shared with USA TODAY that the responsibility should be on the parents to protect their children's mental health, not the government or tech companies.

Research shows social media could come with benefit and harm

Murthy said social media is a major factor in the mental health crisis among young people, which he called "an emergency."

Social media has become nearly ubiquitous among youth. The 2023 U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health found that nearly 95% of youth aged 13 to 17 use a social media platform , with more than a third saying they use it "almost constantly."

The advisory concluded that more research is needed to fully understand the impacts of social media. But it showed there are some benefits and "ample indicators that social media can also have a profound risk of harm to the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents."

Potential benefits identified in the advisory were community, connection and self expression. It also stated that social media can support mental health of LGBTQ youth to help develop their identities. Additionally, seven out of 10 girls of color reported encountering identity-affirming content related to race on social media, the advisory stated.

Potential harms of using social media included greater risk of suffering from depression and anxiety. Some studies also showed greater risk of negative health outcomes for adolescents girls including disordered eating and poor sleep.

Murthy praises dairy recall, Boeing response as examples of swift action

In the NYT letter, Murthy pointed to the F.A.A.'s swift grounding of Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes after a door plug came off mid-flight earlier this year and widespread recalls of cheese products due to risk of listeria contamination .

"Why is it that we have failed to respond to the harms of social media when they are no less urgent or widespread than those posed by unsafe cars, planes or food?," Murthy wrote. "These harms are not a failure of willpower and parenting; they are the consequence of unleashing powerful technology without adequate safety measures, transparency or accountability."

Several state bills seeking to limit youth access to social media have been passed by legislatures but blocked in court. Those lawsuits were often brought by NetChoice.

NetChoice vice president and general counsel Carl Szabo said in a statement that the onus is on parents to protect their children from harm online.

"A warning label oversimplifies this issue, and it is a simplistic way to approach this that assumes that every child is the exact same. In reality, every child is different and struggles with their own challenges," Szabo said. "Parents and guardians are the most appropriately situated to handle these unique needs of their children—not the government or tech companies."

The Definition of Body Image and Social Media Essay

To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
As a template for you assignment

Data Collection Methods to Study Body Image and Social Media

Body checking questionnaire (bcq), reference list.

The definition of body image and the perceptions driven by social media are topics that attract significant attention from scholars. According to Alebachew and Ashagrie (2017, p. 330), body image encompasses a multidimensional paradigm describing a person’s perception or depiction of their outward look. Thus, it revolves around mental images held by individuals regarding their physical appearance. Vannucci and Ohannessian (2018, p.786) point out that body image dissatisfaction (BID) is one of the hypothesized concepts that discuss the incongruity between the ideal and current physical appearance, mainly body size estimation (Ho, Lee and Liao, 2016). Saiphoo and Vahedi (2019, p. 260) assert that social media affects the behavioural, cognitive, affective, and evaluative components of an individual.

Therefore, social media is associated with body image due to its power to influence the psychological aspects of a person that translates to feelings of discontentment with physical appearance (Fardouly, Pinkus and Vartanian 2017, p. 31). Media and culture significantly influence an individuals’ perception of their physical appearance and overall body image. Jung and Jeong (2017, p. 268) allude that exposure to idealised images makes a person feel dissatisfied with their body. As a result, victims exhibit depression and low self-esteem. Thus, people exposed to idealised beauty through social and mainstream media develop or reinforce negative feelings.

Social media has positive impacts on individuals’ perception of their physical appearance based on comparison attributes. For instance, some people feel motivated when they compare themselves to others with better physical attributes (Cramer, Song and Drent 2016, p. 742). In this regard, Social Comparison Theory (SCT) posits that individuals liken their looks to assess their abilities (Robinson et al ., 2017, p. 69). It confirms that people who compare themselves constructively on social media maintain a positive outlook of their body image. Slater, Varsani, and Diedrichs (2017, p. 91) assert that females who read inspiration statements on social media have better physical satisfaction, high positive mood and appreciate their body compared to those who view unbiased images.

Conversely, social media adversely affects an individual’s view of their body appearance. Consequently, they engage in binge eating or food deprivation to attain ideal body size ( The link between social media and body image , 2019). Individuals also change how they look by participating in disordered eating behaviours due to social comparisons (Santarossa and Woodruff, 2017). Social media triggers low self-esteem in people dissatisfied with their body image. A study in the United Kingdom established by Kelly et al . (2018, p. 59) found that girls demonstrate low self-esteem (12.8%) and body-weight displeasure (78.2%) more often compared to 8.9% and 68.3% in boys, respectively. The outcomes underscore the adverse effect of social media on self-esteem due to negative body image perceptions.

Body Image Avoidance Questionnaire (BIAQ)

BIAQ is one of the leading tools used to collect data for evaluating the implication of social media on body image perception. BIAQ includes self-reported questions that focus on behavioural avoidance of situations or practices that influence body image-related distress or displeasure. According to Legenbauer et al . (2020 p. 3), the form contains 19 components spread across four subcategories, which include clothing, social activities, restraint, and grooming/weighing. However, a German version of the questionnaire encompasses three elements; it contains clothing, eating restraint, and social activity, founded on 11 sublevels. The survey consists of a 6-pointscoring scale that establishes the occurrence of targeted behaviour; it starts with never (0) and ends with always (5) (Sandoz et al ., 2020). BIAQ measures behavioural evasion across several purviews that reflect body image discernments.

Therefore, the scale is useful in helping clinicians understand body image concerns demonstrated by patients. Internal consistency validates BIAQ’s significance as a tool for assessing the implication of social media on physical appearance perception. Legenbauer et al . (2020, p. 3) confirm that the questionnaire has good internal consistency marked by a Cronbach’s α=0.64-0.76. Besides, it shows stable test-retest reliability between α=0.64 and α=0.81. Another evaluation by Stapleton, McIntyre and Bannatyne (2016, p.103) found that BIAQ has a dependable internal validity between α=0.64 and α=0.8 based on psychometrical measurements. The tool also provides appropriate, discriminate data across age and gender and between clinical and non-clinical groups.

Body Image Assessment Scale-Body Dimensions (BIAS-BD)

BIAS-BD is an assessment tool examined in 2009 by Gardner et al . that helps collect data to examine how body size affects females’ perception of their physical appearance. The survey utilizes a pictographic scale of profile figures intended to characterise different body proportions ranging between 60% and 140% of a representative Body Mass Index (BMI) of females. Wagner, Aguirre and Sumner (2016) explain that the U.S. Air Force created BIAS-BD through the Material Command Unit with the help of the Generator of Body Data (GEBOD) program. Accordingly, the developers used a sample of 4,325 respondents and ran a regression analysis to produce outlines within intervals of five per cent for each size of a female body (Wagner, Aguirre and Sumner, 2016). Thus, it contains 17 shapes representing diverse BMIs while upholding body dimensions. BIAS-BD is useful in predicting BMI as a positive correlation component associated with people’s sense of dissatisfaction with physical appearance (Sharif, 2017, p. 718). A review by Wagner, Aguirre and Sumner (2016) shows that BIAS-BD produces significant results when assessing the influence of social media on body image elements, such as actual size and dissatisfaction. For instance, the bivariate correlation study conducted by Lewallen (2016, p. 109) indicates that Instagram induces a moderately positive relationship between real BMI and dissatisfaction. Both components had a mean of 21.59 and 13.76 and standard deviation of 3.17 and 11.74, respectively, at r = 0.44 and p < 0.001 (Wagner, Aguirre and Sumner, 2016). Although there is no sufficient evidence to ascertain the validity of BIAS-BD, the statistics exemplify its significance in collecting data to investigate the correlation between social media and body image.

BCQ is a self-administered survey used to collect data for assessing the ways people react to their bodies when exposed to elements, such as social media, which influence their perception. The survey contains 23 items ranked using a Likert scale ranging from one to five (Maïano et al ., 2019). The rating helps to determine how usually a particular behaviour occurs when exposed to triggering factors. Reas (2017) expounds that BCQ considers the total score of individual components between 23 and 115. Besides, it includes a single measurement factor (Body checking), which is compared to interrelated sub-factors. In addition, an Idiosyncratic Checking Scale (ICS) with five elements is integrated into BCQ to examine unusual control behaviour. Legenbauer et al . (2020, p. 3) confirm that BCQ has a reliable internal consistency with Cronbach’s α=0.83-0.92. A German version of BCQ shows similar validity levels marked by Cronbach’s alpha between 0.83 and 0.95. The robust stability makes BCQ a useful tool for collecting data to study the implication of social media on body image perception.

Alebachew, F. and Ashagrie, M. (2017) ‘The body-image concept analysis of youth and adolescent’, American Journal of Biomedical and Life Sciences , 5(6), pp. 130-134.

Cramer, E.M., Song, H. and Drent, A.M. (2016) ‘Social comparison on Facebook: motivation, affective consequences, self-esteem, and Facebook fatigue’, Computers in Human Behavior , 64, pp. 736-746.

Fardouly, J., Pinkus, R.T. and Vartanian, L.R. (2017) ‘The impact of appearance comparisons made through social media, traditional media, and in person in women’s everyday lives’, Body Image , 20, pp. 31-39.

Ho, S. S., Lee, E. W., & Liao, Y. (2016) ‘Social network sites, friends, and celebrities: the roles of social comparison and celebrity involvement in adolescents’ body image dissatisfaction’, Social Media+ Society , 2(3).

Jung, M.R. and Jeong, E. (2017) ‘Convergence factors influencing body image in adolescents’, Journal of Digital Convergence , 15(8), pp. 267-275.

Kelly, Y. et al . (2018) ‘Social media use and adolescent mental health: findings from the UK Millennium Cohort Study’, EClinical Medicine , 6, pp. 59-68.

Legenbauer, T. et al. (2020) ‘The body image approach test (BIAT): a potential measure of the behavioral components of body image disturbance in anorexia and bulimia nervosa?’ Frontiers in Psychology , 11, p. 30.

Lewallen, J. (2016) ‘When image isn’t everything: the effects of Instagram frames on social comparison’, The Journal of Social Media in Society , 5(2), pp.108-133.

Maïano, C. et al . (2019) ‘Psychometric properties of the body checking questionnaire (BCQ) and of the body checking cognitions scale (BCCS): a bifactor-exploratory structural equation modeling approach’, Assessment.

Reas D.L. (2017) ‘Body checking questionnaire (BCQ)’, in Wade, T. (ed), Encyclopedia of feeding and eating disorders . Singapore: Springer. pp. 65-69

Robinson, L. et al . (2017) ‘Idealised media images: the effect of fitspiration imagery on body satisfaction and exercise behaviour’, Body Image , 22, pp. 65-71.

Saiphoo, A.N. and Vahedi, Z. (2019) ‘A meta-analytic review of the relationship between social media use and body image disturbance’, Computers in Human Behavior , 101, pp. 259-275.

Sandoz, E.K. et al . (2020) ‘Relative associations of body image avoidance constructs with eating disorder pathology in a large college student sample’, Body Image , 34, pp. 242-248.

Santarossa, S. and Woodruff, S.J. (2017) ‘# SocialMedia: exploring the relationship of social networking sites on body image, self-esteem, and eating disorders’, Social Media+ Society , 3(2).

Sharif, P.S. (2017) ‘Development and psychometric evaluation of the breast size satisfaction scale’, International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, 30 ( 8), pp. 717-727. Web.

Slater, A., Varsani, N. and Diedrichs, P.C. (2017) ‘# fitspo or# loveyourself? the impact of fitspiration and self-compassion Instagram images on women’s body image, self-compassion, and mood’, Body Image , 22, pp. 87-96.

Stapleton, P., McIntyre, T. and Bannatyne, A. (2016) ‘Body image avoidance, body dissatisfaction, and eating pathology: is there a difference between male gym users and non–gym users?’ American Journal of Men’s Health , 10(2), pp. 100-109.

The link between social media and body image (2019) Web.

Vannucci, A. and Ohannessian, C.M. (2018) ‘Body image dissatisfaction and anxiety trajectories during adolescence’, Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology , 47(5), pp. 785-795.

Wagner, C., Aguirre, E. and Sumner, E. M. (2016) ‘The relationship between Instagram selfies and body image in young adult women,’ First Monday , 21(9). Web.

Becton Dickinson: Recommendations to Improve HR Functions
Arthritis NSW Corporation
Becton Dickinson: Human Resource Management
Social Media Effect on Sports Teams’ Exposure
Suicide and How the Media Affects It
Media Influence on Coronavirus Perception
Changing the Culture via YouTube: Creating and Consuming Streaming Videos
The Concentration of Media Ownership
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2022, February 23). The Definition of Body Image and Social Media. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-definition-of-body-image-and-social-media/

"The Definition of Body Image and Social Media." IvyPanda , 23 Feb. 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/the-definition-of-body-image-and-social-media/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'The Definition of Body Image and Social Media'. 23 February.

IvyPanda . 2022. "The Definition of Body Image and Social Media." February 23, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-definition-of-body-image-and-social-media/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Definition of Body Image and Social Media." February 23, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-definition-of-body-image-and-social-media/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Definition of Body Image and Social Media." February 23, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-definition-of-body-image-and-social-media/.

Social media is heating up over why Asians don’t have body odor

Photo of woman sweating and holding a fan

While some extra deodorant swipes can feel like a necessity during these sweltering temps, there’s one group that’s not really sweating it.

Social media users are using the heat wave as a chance to point out many Asians simply don’t smell. According to experts, there’s actually a gene mutation behind it.

Between 80 and 95% of East Asians have a dysfunction of the ABCCII gene, which is linked to smelly pits, a number of studies say. And this means their bodies don’t release the same acidic odor smell the rest of the population does when exposed to hot temperatures and perspiration.

“It’s just going to be a lot less pungent and a lot less prevalent,” Dr. Madalyn Nguyen , an Oregon-based dermatologist, said of those with East Asian ancestry , including herself. “So we can go a little bit longer without needing to mask our body odor.”

With the heat kicking in, body odor has been on many people’s minds. Dermatologist Heather Kornmehl posted an Instagram video earlier this month explaining how “the potential for stinky armpits is genetically determined.” The video went viral with more than 4 million views.

Another TikTok video shared Thursday by dermatologist Dr. Daniel Sugai pokes fun at the empty experience of “asking your East Asian friend what’s their fav deodorant.”

Nguyen explained that body odor is primarily associated with apocrine sweat glands, found in the armpit and groin areas. For those without the mutation in the ABCC11 gene, protein in those sweat glands helps transport fatty compounds, or lipids, from the cell into the sweat. The bacteria on the skin breaks down those lipids in the oilier, thicker sweat to produce body odor. But for those with the mutation, the protein doesn’t function that way.

“That transporter doesn’t work. And we don’t have those same lipids that cross into the earwax and into the sweat,” Nguyen explained of East Asians, adding that a dysfunctional ABCC11 gene is also connected to drier, less goopy earwax. “So less of that means less body odor, and also translates to dry earwax.”

While an overwhelming amount of East Asians have the mutation, it is present in only up to 3% of European and African populations, according to a 2010 study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Among East Asians, Koreans have the highest prevalence of the mutation, but Chinese, Vietnamese and others also tend to have the dysfunction of the gene.

“I’m not talking about modern East Asia. I’m talking about East Asia from tens of thousands of years ago, which includes Southeast Asians,” Nguyen said. “That can also be tracked to Native Americans as well, because tens of thousands of years ago they migrated from East Asia. So many Native Americans also have this loss of function gene.”

So far, there isn’t a definitive explanation for why the mutation is so common among East Asians. However, the 2010 study floated the possibility that, with a historically “more pronounced tradition of cleanliness and personal hygiene,” people with less body odor may have been preferred as mates, resulting in the larger population with the dysfunction of the gene.

“We evolve to manifest more of certain traits depending on whatever our environment is,” Nguyen said. “So Scandinavian people are much lighter than people who live near the equator. And it’s because people who live near the equator needed to create more melanin to protect their skin.”

This isn’t to say that those with the mutation can skip showers, Nguyen said, as they still secrete substances from the apocrine glands. These sweat glands are in part activated by compounds called catecholamines, which are secreted in times of stress.

From a dermatological standpoint, body odor isn’t an unhealthy thing, either, Nguyen said. But for those concerned about the smell, she actually doesn’t recommend deodorant as it fails to do much aside from adding a perfume scent to the B.O.

“You can use a benzoyl peroxide wash in your armpits,” she said. “The trick is leaving it on for like a minute or two before washing it off. And that just decreases the surface bacteria that breaks down the lipids in your sweat.”

Applying antiperspirant to dry armpits at night can also help, Nguyen said.

“It actually gets into those sweat glands rather than being washed out by the sweat that’s already in them,” she explained.

For more from NBC Asian America, sign up for our weekly newsletter .

Kimmy Yam is a reporter for NBC Asian America.

Follow PetaPixel on YouTube
Follow PetaPixel on Facebook
Follow PetaPixel on Twitter
Follow PetaPixel on Instagram

US Surgeon General Can’t Even Convince Himself That Social Media Warning Labels Are a Good Idea

A person with long hair leans on a table, their face not visible. They are using a smartphone with their right hand, wearing bracelets on their left wrist. The background is blurred, showing indistinct shapes and colors.

As U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy attempted to advocate for warning labels on social media, he made a stronger case against the practice.

In a New York Times guest essay published on Monday, Murthy plead Congress to issue warning labels on social media, similar to those that appear on tobacco products, notifying parents against the negative effects the platforms can have on adolescents. However, as the op-ed continues, the argument shifts away from the effectiveness of labels and in favor of larger solutions — and it’s a far more convincing case.

Murthy first acknowledges the mental health crisis seen in young people, especially those who are social media users. It’s a valid point and a strong foundation for a call to action. The Surgeon General compares the issue to more tangible health concerns like tobacco use or car crashes. The latter further sets up a fine analogy by way of warning labels, which Murthy says helped reduce the use of tobacco products.

“Evidence from tobacco studies show that warning labels can increase awareness and change behavior,” Murthy writes.

Yet, the similarities seem to end there. Murthy never offers an example of how his proposed labels would look, which is especially nebulous considering the warnings would be for parents rather than the adolescent users. Surgeon General warnings on a pack of cigarettes, for example, are seen by those smoking them, and that’s who the message is for.

However, a warning on social media might not be seen by parents or guardians who aren’t on the same platforms as their children. Further, it’s unclear where and how the label would show up. Would it appear when someone downloads an app? Would it appear every time someone loads the platform? And would it appear for all users, including adults without children? It seems Murthy is asking for something without knowing exactly what the something is. That, or he hasn’t taken the time to illuminate those he’s trying to convince on the details of his plan.

And the stats he boasts regarding the effectiveness of tobacco product warnings don’t translate to ones for social media.

“When asked if a warning from the surgeon general would prompt them to limit or monitor their children’s social media use, 76 percent of people in one recent survey of Latino parents said yes,” he says, providing the only solid figure for such a use case. It hardly tells anyone how parents as a whole might respond.

The Surgeon General’s public health comparisons continue while further moving away from his original argument for warning labels.

“There is no seatbelt for parents to click, no helmet to snap in place, no assurance that trusted experts have investigated and ensured that these platforms are safe for our kids,” Murthy notes.

The line underscores where the similarities between a mental health crisis worsened by social media and something like car safety start and end. Both pose serious public health concerns and need to be addressed. The problem is they cannot be addressed in exactly the same ways.

Murthy makes this evident himself in his emotional pleas, putting desperate parents at the center of his ask.

“One of the worst things for a parent is to know your children are in danger yet be unable to do anything about it,” he writes. “That is how parents tell me they feel when it comes to social media — helpless and alone in the face of toxic content and hidden harms.”

Murthy continues, detailing the heartbreaking story of a diligent mother who nonetheless lost her child to suicide after enduring online bullying. This mother seemed to do everything right, “monitoring her daughter’s accounts and phone daily,” in the Surgeon General’s own words.

What, then, would a warning label provide other than a condescending reminder of the anxieties already plaguing this mother?

“As a father of a 6- and a 7-year-old who have already asked about social media, I worry about how my wife and I will know when to let them have accounts,” Murthy adds, admitting his own limitations. “How will we monitor their activity, given the increasingly sophisticated techniques for concealing it? How will we know if our children are being exposed to harmful content or dangerous people? It’s no wonder that when it comes to managing social media for their kids, so many parents are feeling stress and anxiety — and even shame.”

This is not to disparage Murthy or the mother he highlights, nor any other parent struggling to contend with the dangers of social media. But if the person hoping to issue the warning doesn’t have the answers, how will any other parents fare in the face of a mere label?

Not far into his guest essay, Murthy emphasizes the need for other solutions as well, namely legislation. Here, the Surgeon General is not only more convincing, but he seems more passionate as well, possibly because those were his first arguments.

“The advisory I issued a year ago about social media and young people’s mental health included specific recommendations for policymakers, platforms and the public to make social media safer for kids,” he notes in the New York Times op-ed. “Such measures, which already have strong bipartisan support, remain the priority.”

It feels as though the warning labels are a last-ditch effort after seeing little to no action following Murthy’s first recommendation. With that, it’s easy to see why the Surgeon General’s warning label plea to Congress feels so meek. It is. And rather than focusing on Murthy’s latest argument on how to respond to the negative impact of social media on children, we should revisit Murthy’s original arguments on the matter.

Image credits: Header photo licensed via Depositphotos .

Four people stand side by side against a wall, all focused on their smartphones. They are casually dressed: the first person wears a white T-shirt and headphones, the second a flannel shirt over a beige top, the third a white T-shirt and denim shorts, and the fourth a blue polo shirt.

Latest Latest
The West The West
Sports Sports
Opinion Opinion
Magazine Magazine

It’s possible to boost your body image with social media, according to research. Here’s how

Social media influencers are normalizing things like bloating and endometriosis.

By Sydney Jezik

Social media is normalizing body positivity through posts on issues like endometriosis, weight gain and bloating, according to The New York Times . Why is this happening — and is it a good thing?

Many internet influencers and their followers would say that it is. A growing amount of scientific research suggests that it is, too.

Here’s how you can benefit from the positive side effects of online conversations about body issues.

Talking about body issues is becoming the norm

The hashtag #bloating recently trended on TikTok, according to NBC News .

Nadya Okamoto dressed up as pregnant Rihanna for a friend’s birthday party. While not pregnant herself, Okamoto felt that the outfit worked because, as she said: “I literally had a watermelon-sized bloat.”

Nearly 4 million people viewed her video on TikTok. People began commenting that they, too, related to her concerns, and expressed gratitude for her openness.

@nadyaokamoto #constipated Queen lol #constipation #outfitinspo #ibs #hotgirlshaveibs ♬ original sound - h ౨ৎ

“This made me feel so much better!!” one commenter wrote. “I’ve had a bloated stomach since I was little and I was so insecure about it today.”

Along with TikTok, Instagram and Facebook are increasingly full of body commentary.

Influencers spread information about issues ranging from weight to acne to periods, according to Metricool . As a result, communities spring up around these issues, sharing tips and support.

“I find that I encounter more body positive content than negative,” said high school student Alexis to The New York Times . “When I see body positive content on social media, I find that it just makes me (feel) normal for the body I have. Positive content can show people that your body doesn’t define you. ... The thing it promotes most, though, is that if you want to get ... healthier, then the only person you should do it for is yourself.”

What does the research say?

Not everyone finds that social media has a positive effect on their body image. Studies and anecdotal evidence report that negative body content can lead to dissatisfaction, depression and harmful behaviors like eating disorders, per Healthline .

Nevertheless, a growing amount of research indicates that social media, used wisely, can positively benefit body image and mental health.

A 2023 study split 159 women between the ages of 18 and 25 into three groups, where one group viewed body-neutral Facebook posts, one group viewed body-positive Facebook posts and a control group used Facebook as they normally did, per PsyPost .

The researchers found that women who viewed a controlled number of body-positive posts felt much better about their bodies for several weeks and refrained from comparing their bodies to others. Women who viewed body-neutral posts (meaning posts that did not discuss the body or beauty) similarly felt more positive about their own bodies than women in the control group, though not as much as women in the body-positive group, PsyPost reported.

Though the effects wore off after several weeks of regular social media usage, the study indicates that body-positive content can improve self-esteem.

“We see this strategy as a micro-intervention — a small change we can make to improve people’s experiences on social media and how they feel about themselves in everyday life,” said Jasmine Fardouly, who authored the study, per UNSW Sydney . “Just one post a day was potentially enough to induce positive effects. More exposure may be even more effective.”

How to use social media in a body-positive way

To use social media in a body-positive way, consider the following tips.

Seek representation

Whether you follow an influencer who talks about issues you deal with or join a forum for people like you, sharing similar experiences with other people can provide emotional support and practical advice.

For example, Nadya Okamoto shares tips on GI issues and periods and strives to spread awareness to her followers. She’s reached millions so far, according to Campaign Asia . And body-positive social media isn’t limited to just women. In 2023, Zach Miko took the Internet by storm as a male plus-sized model, per AOL .

Take care of your mental and physical health

While in today’s world it may be unrealistic to abandon social media, set boundaries concerning how much you use it. Balancing your life between the Internet and the real world can reduce how much you rely on validation from social media, plus prevent you from developing a distorted view of what bodies should look like.

Uninstalling social media apps that you feel you use too much
Setting screen time limits using your device’s settings
Keeping your phone in a different room than the one that you sleep in and avoid checking it before bed or right after waking up
Disabling notifications

Refrain from editing posts or posting for attention

Posting authentic content without alterations fosters self-acceptance. It also prevents others from falling prey to fake comparisons. If you do edit a post, try to be transparent about what you changed.

In some places, this isn’t just a good idea — it’s also the law. France is currently developing legislation that will require influencers to state if a photo involved in a paid partnership has been edited, according to Business Insider .

IMAGES

Social Media Essay: Tips and Topics
≫ Effects of Social Media on Communication and Relationships Free Essay
Social Media
Social media example essay
Social Media Essay
Social media benefits essay

VIDEO

Role of social media ll essay
Role Of Social Media I Essay Writing I essay
essay social media
A Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body Essay, Speech, Paragraph or short note writing in English 200 words
The Impact of Social Media on Society
مضمون سوشل میڈیا کے فائدے اور نقصانات/essay impact of social media @educationforeveryone668

COMMENTS

Social Media Essay: How to Write It Effectively
Social Media Essay Body Paragraph. Structure each social media essay body paragraph around a specific aspect of your chosen topic. Start with a clear topic sentence that encapsulates the main idea of the paragraph. Provide concrete examples, data, or case studies to support your points and strengthen your argument. Maintain a logical flow ...
Social Media Essay: Definition, Structure, Topics
Proper Social Media Essay Structure What makes social media essay successful is correct structure. No matter what type of an essay you are about to write, a basic outline should include: Introduction with a hook sentence and strong thesis. 3 to 5 body paragraphs. Conclusion and call to action, if relevant.
An Essay About Social Media: Definition, Outline and Examples
An essay about social media is a piece of writing that explores social media's impact, influence, and consequences on various aspects of society, such as communication, relationships, politics, mental health, culture, and more. The essay can take on different forms, such as an argumentative essay, a cause-and-effect essay, a critical analysis ...
6 Example Essays on Social Media
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.
Social Media Essay: Analyzing Social Dynamics [Topics and Example]
Social media essay hooks are pivotal in grabbing the reader's attention right from the beginning and compelling them to continue reading. A well-crafted hook acts as the engaging entry point to your essay, setting the tone and framing the context for the discussion that will follow. ... Body. Section 1 - Connection Through Social Media ...
How to Write a Social Media Essay With Examples
Body. The body of social media essays provides ideas required to support a central claim. In this case, writers have a mandate to provide adequate evidence to support a thesis statement (Specht, 2019). Basically, the essay's body should contain different sections related to a thesis statement. Hence, writers must follow a specific structure ...
Argumentative Essay about Social Media • Free Examples
2 pages / 694 words. While social media platforms offer numerous benefits, such as facilitating communication and information sharing, there is an increasing concern about the negative impact of social media on our mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. This essay aims to critically analyze the ways in which social...
Social Media Essay: Benefits and Drawbacks of Social ...
On the other hand, if you use social media sites for long stretches of time in one go, you run the risk of addiction. Gradually, a social media addict starts to build a cocoon for themselves, which they find hard to step out of. This leads to a disconnect between you and the family you already have and love.
Social Media Essay: A Comprehensive Guide
The impact of social media on self-esteem and body image. How social media shapes our sense of identity and belonging. The rise of "fake personas" and the concept of online authenticity. Social media and the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. The impact of social media on mental health and anxiety. Society & Culture:
The Role of Social Media in Modern Society Essay
The Role of Social Media in Modern Society: Essay Conclusion. In conclusion, social media has reached every facet of human activities. It has become an integral part of communication means. Online networks, such as Facebook and Twitten, have penetrated to social and cultural realms and have provided new patterns of acting in a real environment.
482 Social Media Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
A social media essay conclusion serves to summarize your points and show how they support your thesis. This should be the final section you structure. ... The purpose of the proposed research is to investigate the effect of social media on the body image of adolescents. The study will measure body image satisfaction and correlate it with social ...
Essay on Social Media
500+ Words Essay on Social Media. Social media is a tool that is becoming quite popular these days because of its user-friendly features. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more are giving people a chance to connect with each other across distances. In other words, the whole world is at our fingertips all thanks to ...
Social Media and Its Impacts on Society
1 hour! Social media has influenced the society criminally, socially, and economically. Criminally, social media has led to the growth of Internet criminals. Crimes committed over the social media are of different magnitudes and they mainly include impostors, hacking, and hate speeches.
Persuasive Essay About Social Media: Examples to Guide You
Step 4: Craft Your Introduction. The introduction should provide context, state the thesis statement, and grab the reader's attention. It precedes deciding your stance and initiates the overall writing process. Read this free PDF to learn more about crafting essays on social media!
Social Media Impact On Society: [Essay Example], 614 words
Social Media Impact on Society. Social media has become an integral part of our society, influencing how we communicate, interact, and consume information. The rise of platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok has transformed the way we connect with others, share our thoughts and experiences, and access news and entertainment.
6.10.2 Social media and communication (research essay)
Abstract. Communication is extremely important in today's world, whether it be verbal or nonverbal. It can take place through many different forms such as through writing, speaking, listening and physical actions. These forms of communication evolve and continue to improve over time.
How Social Media Impacts Body Image
July 20, 2023/ Health Conditions / Mental Health. How Social Media Can Harm Your Body Image. Filters and editing can lead to low self-esteem, depression and even body dysmorphic disorder. It's ...
Social Media Pros and Cons: [Essay Example], 889 words
Social media is a term that describes a person's ability to affect other people's social thinking in a community. The numerous social media sites, from Facebook to LinkedIn, make it easy to interact with many people. The more influence a person has, the greater their ability to sway another person's mind. However, the impact of social ...
Essay on Social Media for Students in English
Essay on Social Media. Social media is the communal interaction among people in which they create, share or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities. It has become the basic need and quality of human beings to be social. The spectacular developments in communications and innovative and astonishing entertainment have given access to ...
Social Media Fact Sheet
Follow these links for more in-depth analysis of the impact of social media on American life. Americans' Social Media Use Jan. 31, 2024; Americans' Use of Mobile Technology and Home Broadband Jan. 31 2024; Q&A: How and why we're changing the way we study tech adoption Jan. 31, 2024
Social Media and Body Image Essay
According to the Merriam Webster dictionary body image is, ""a subjective picture of one's own physical appearance established both by self-observation and by noting the reactions of other. Negative body image and low self-esteem are real problems and I want to discover the causes, how much of a factor social media is, and ways that ...
Opinion
Adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media face double the risk of anxiety and depression symptoms, and the average daily use in this age group, as of the summer of 2023 ...
Surgeon General Calls for Warning Labels on Social Media Platforms
In an essay published in The New York Times opinion section on Monday, Dr. Murthy pointed to research showing that teens who spent more than three hours a day on social media faced a significantly ...
Surgeon general's call for warning labels on social media underscores
A recent review found that, as with mass media, the use of social media is a risk factor for the development of an eating disorder, body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating. In this review ...
Essay on Body Shaming: Impacts, Combat & Image Explain
The Role of Social Media in Body Shaming. Social media platforms have become both a battleground and a breeding ground for body shaming, perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and facilitating the spread of harmful attitudes and behaviors. Memes and viral examples often serve as poignant illustrations of how social media contributes to body ...
Surgeon General calls for warning label on social media platforms
The U.S. Surgeon General called for social media companies to be required to use safety warning labels in a New York Times opinion essay published Monday. "One of the worst things for a parent is ...
The Definition of Body Image and Social Media Essay
The definition of body image and the perceptions driven by social media are topics that attract significant attention from scholars. According to Alebachew and Ashagrie (2017, p. 330), body image encompasses a multidimensional paradigm describing a person's perception or depiction of their outward look. Thus, it revolves around mental images ...
Social media is heating up over why Asians don't have body odor
Between 80 and 95% of East Asians have a dysfunction of the ABCCII gene, which is linked to smelly pits, a number of studies say. And this means their bodies don't release the same acidic odor ...
Surgeon General Can't Convince Himself on Social Media Warning
In a New York Times guest essay published on Monday, Murthy plead Congress to issue warning labels on social media, similar to those that appear on tobacco products, notifying parents against the ...
How social media is normalizing body content and why this is good
How to use social media in a body-positive way. To use social media in a body-positive way, consider the following tips. Seek representation. Whether you follow an influencer who talks about issues you deal with or join a forum for people like you, sharing similar experiences with other people can provide emotional support and practical advice.

Social Media Essay: A Full Guide

Short Description

Why Write a Social Media Essay

6 Key Tips for Crafting a Social Media Essay

Want to Watch Your Academic Goals Take Flight?

Social Media Essay Structure

Form an Outline

Make a Social Media Essay Introduction

Social Media Essay Body Paragraph

Social Media Essay Conclusion

Proofread and Revise

Social Media Essay Topics

Social Media Essay Example

Wrapping Up

Ready to Take Your Writing Skills to the Next Level?

Social Media Essay Writing Guide & Example Topics

Definition & Most Popular Social Media Networks

Proper Social Media Essay Structure

Need more writing assistance?

Positive & Negative Effects of Social Media

Successful Essay Topic Examples

Writing Plagiarism-free and Excellent Essays is Possible

Was this helpful?

Written by David Kidwell

Related Blog Posts

350+ Informative Speech Topics for Students

Diversity essay: effective tips for expressing ideas

Join our 150K of happy users

An Essay About Social Media: Definition, Outline and Examples

Why do college students write essays about social media

How to write an essay about social media

Essay about social media: outline example

Example 1: Short social media essay

Example 2: 1000 + words Essay About Social Media

Social media essay topic ideas

Essays about social media additional tips

Needs help with similar assignment?

Quick Links

Useful Resources

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

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

6 Examples of Social Media Essays

The Impact of Social Media on Relationships and Communication

Positive Effects:

Negative Effects:

Conclusion:

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

The Pervasiveness of Misinformation and Fake News on Social Media

The Influence of Social Media on Public Opinion

The Challenge of Correcting Misinformation and Fake News

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

Comparison and Low Self-Esteem

Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

Social Isolation

Addiction and Overuse

The Use of Social Media in Political Activism and Social Movements

Raising Awareness and Mobilizing Action

Connecting with like-minded individuals

Challenges and Limitations

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

Data Collection and Sharing

Lack of Control Over Personal Information

Personalized Marketing

Government Surveillance

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

Effect on Individual Privacy:

Responsibility of Social Media Companies:

Better Regulation Is Needed

Try Jenni for free today

Social Media Essay: Guide to Structuring an A+ Paper

General Guidelines

What Is a Social Media Essay and Its Purpose

Definitions of Key Terms

Examples of Topics

Identifying Central Themes

Argumentative Formats

Persuasive Ideas

Satirical Concepts

Social Media Essay Format

Introduction