When students finish their tests or have free time at home, it has become socially acceptable (even necessary) to flip the phone out of their pockets and scroll through TikTok. If not TikTok, then Instagram or Snapchat works, too. While many early in the 21st century aimed to eliminate any spread of social media, it is evident their efforts failed. Not only did social media extend only to those who created the applications, but to every electronic device around the world.
We are amid what many deem a “digital age.” But this widespread term has become quite nuanced in all types of settings. At Seton Hall Prep, social media usage leads to threads of warnings on how to use social media safely (likes, comments, and interactions online) and teachers often taking phones away because students cannot control themselves during class. Surely there are numerous benefits to social media, yet there are as many cons as there are pros. This year, I have been more exposed to social media discussions than ever in my time at The Prep.
Social media is easy. Anyone with a mobile device, or even laptop, can access the major social media applications (Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter for users our age) and create an account. But what is so appealing about these apps? These four powerhouse platforms all stress connectivity. Users can be in touch with their friends over Snapchat, especially through sending pictures back and forth with one another as opposed to simple messaging, Instagram through posted photos or direct messages, TikTok through interactive video clips, and Twitter through “tweets,” or simple posts. These applications are also highly adaptive and interactive. The distinct and scary algorithms behind the scenes tailor feeds and filters to your current interests. Of course, one is going to stay engaged when seeing people or information they desire. Social media, above all, can be a useful learning tool. There is boundless educational content on these vast sites to help with homework, and specifically something I have seen this year, college applications. Apps like Twitter or TikTok are crucial for many in providing the latest news and current events information as well. Indirectly, these social media apps promote a somewhat advanced world view.
The situation is not so pretty though. A majority of the issues with “Gen-Z” are associated with social media usage. Cyberbullying is just the surface. Relationships over Snapchat, a prime example, often run into roadblocks such as “being left on delivered.” On Instagram, it is inevitable for FOMO to occur when one sees friends getting together and posting pictures without them. On Twitter, political issues have been rampant. Alongside, Twitter is notorious for its NSFW and free roam content. In other words, anyone can post anything. TikTok, with its uber-engaging interface, paves the way for hours of screentime usage at once. The mental health battle too has come to the forefront with social media applications emerging. In addition to Snapchat causing unnecessary qualms about friendships, Instagram and TikTok raise awareness of things you do not have. For example, amid the college application process, users on Instagram and TikTok will post their decisions. More times than not, someone who does not get into their dream school will encounter someone else who flaunts online their acceptance and enter a very stressful environment.
The verdict: social media is evidently nuanced. These platforms were created for a reason, and while most of us use these applications for their designated purpose, others do not. Social media should still be utilized though, for its benefits tend to outweigh the costs more often than not. However, it is still perfectly normal to maintain abstinence from these apps, especially if they cause superfluous issues. But there is one thing for certain: social media is here to stay and has already created a path to continue growing.