Social media varies in different aspects whether it’s creators, platforms, genres, and the content displayed. However, one thing that doesn’t change is its effect on teens and the younger generations.

Many of today’s content creators are minors, who post their whole lives on social media. Some of these creators have even gotten so popular that they can drop out of school at fifteen, some even earlier. Not only does this impact the influencer themself but it also affects the people watching.

Kids as young as five years old are active on social media, following these teen influencers. Not only do these videos create unrealistic expectations but they can also add to the insecurities faced by teens today.

According to the National Library of Medicine, social media can be linked to harm caused to mental health, especially in younger generations. These content platforms can fuel teens’ fears of missing out, body image issues, and comparison to other kids their age.

Sophomore at Calabasas High School, Hannah Rocca, said “I think social media negatively impacts our generation because everyone is too worried of what others will say about them online or if they will fit into the specific trends that social media sets to be “normal.””

Social media has also contributed to people maturing too quickly. Due to teens posting videos like “Get Ready with Me” or their makeup tutorials, the viewers feel inclined to do the same.

Another harmful effect is the access of online predators. There are many individuals who watch videos made by underage content creators with poor intentions. Such content can create easy targets on these influencers, and can jeopardize their safety. 

Social media might have some negative effects, but it can also benefit many people. If students aren’t able to connect with peers at school, they can go online and meet new people, who can end up as lifelong friends. 

When asked about her opinion on social media, Devin Lee, a sophomore at Calabasas High School, says “You can find so many positive things like finding new friends and connecting with people about interest.”

It can also help boost self-esteem, with positive comments and reinforcement. Even if people do not know a creator personally, they can still give them their support. People can also support their friends’ videos when they choose to post online.

People can find others with similar interests and activities that they might not have known had they only interacted within their school or any local areas. Social media gives individuals the opportunity to express themselves freely.

Additionally, it can help people learn new hobbies and new things about themselves. People can find new things to try like art, music, or a sport that they might not have done before. It can lead to people finding new passions and activities that they love. 

This raises the question: is social media beneficial for the younger generations or is it leading to worse problems within teens?