Hertz, M., Jelen, A., & Christakis, N. A. (2019). Online harassment and teenagers: A survey of teens and their parents. Pew Research Center.
Another issue is the cyberbullying and online harassment that many people experience on social media. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 59% of teens have experienced online harassment, with 43% experiencing severe forms of harassment, such as physical threats or sustained harassment (Hertz et al., 2019). This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. stephanie rage
Social media can also disrupt sleep patterns, which is essential for maintaining good mental health. Exposure to screens and the constant notifications from social media can interfere with the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to sleep deprivation and fatigue. A study published in the journal Sleep Health found that exposure to electronic devices before bedtime was associated with poorer sleep quality and increased symptoms of depression and anxiety (Cain & Gradisar, 2010). Hertz, M
Furthermore, social media can create a false sense of connection and community. While social media platforms provide a sense of connectivity, they often lack the depth and intimacy of in-person interactions. A study published in the Journal of Psychology and Theology found that people who spent more time on social media were more likely to experience feelings of loneliness and social isolation, even if they had a large number of online friends (Burke et al., 2010). Online harassment and teenagers: A survey of teens
Cain, N., & Gradisar, M. (2010). Electronic media use and sleep in school-aged children and adolescents: A review. Sleep Medicine, 11(8), 735-742.