Do Social Networking Sites Have Mostly Positive or Negative Effects on Society Free Essay Example, 1500 words

According to the research, social media has been found to enhance self-image and confidence among the users. In an article by Kelly Wallace, the author reports that research has shown that social media makes teenagers feel confident. The author reports the findings of the research conducted by Common Sense Media, which is a child advocacy group, which show that social media helps teenagers feel less shy. This is because, through social media, people are able to interact with many people from various backgrounds. Through this interaction, the user s confidence is enhanced, and this helps him/her interact with others more effectively in the real world. Social media is analogs to a mirror: when one looks at himself/herself through the mirror, they tend to appreciate their beauty and other attributes. In this case, the connections we make through social media are like the reflection through which we see ourselves. The views by others and comments help build our confidence. Opponents of social media argue that these sites have in fact enhanced cases of cyberbullying, which have in turn reduced people s confidence and self-image online, especially among teenagers. We will write a custom essay sample on Do Social Networking Sites Have Mostly Positive or Negative Effects on Society or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now Whereas this may be true, it should be noted that cyberbullying only affects a small percentage of users. In addition, cyberbullying can be addressed by teaching younger users on how to use these sites and people to interact with. Unlike what critics portray, the effects of cyberbullying are limited and cannot be used to erode the positives of social media and social networking. Social networking sites are good platforms for relieving stress, anxiety, and boredom. In a world where people are faced with challenges and stress arising from the workplace, families, and friends, network sites such as Twitter and Facebook are important for revealing such stress. When people communicate and interact with many people, they tend to share ideas on how to deal with such problems. By chatting with a colleague or friend, a person can reduce anxiety or stress.