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social media

Topic description and stories.

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Social Media Marketing Essay

Disclaimer: This is an example of a student written essay. Click here for sample essays written by our professional writers. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of UKEssays.ae.

Introduction

 “Many online tools that allow people with similar interests to share information, learn from others, or network in an open process. The information found on these sites is commonly referred to as ‘user-generated content’, which means anyone is able to post with minimal restrictions or oversight.” (Wilson, 2010)

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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.

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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.

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Exploring Risk, Privacy and the Impact of Social Media Usage with Undergraduates

• Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
• Student Services
• Centre for Open Learning

Research output : Contribution to conference › Paper › peer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

• Social Media
• Digital Footprint
• Undergraduates

Other files and links

• Exploring Risk Privacy and the Impact of Social Media Usage with Undergraduates - ECSM 2017 Presentation Slides

Fingerprint

• Undergraduates Social Sciences 100%
• Right to Privacy Social Sciences 100%
• Social Media Computer Science 100%
• Facebook Computer Science 44%
• Social Medium Site Computer Science 33%
• Research Project Social Sciences 22%
• Surveillance Social Sciences 22%
• Surveys Social Sciences 22%

Projects per year

"A Live Pulse": Yik Yak for Understanding Teaching, Learning and Assessment at Edinburgh

Osborne, N. , Bayne, S. , Alex, B. , Grover, C. , Connelly, L. & Tobin, R.

1/09/16 → 31/08/17

Project : University Awarded Project Funding

• Social Media 100%
• Anonymity 54%
• Undergraduates 50%
• Teaching 46%
• Evaluation 46%

Managing Your Digital Footprint (Research Strand)

Connelly, L. , Bayne, S. , Osborne, N. & Bunni, A.

1/09/14 → 31/10/15

• Students 86%
• Digital Footprint 61%
• Transition 43%
• Identity 43%

T1 - Exploring Risk, Privacy and the Impact of Social Media Usage with Undergraduates

AU - Connelly, Louise

AU - Osborne, Nicola

PY - 2017/7/4

Y1 - 2017/7/4

N2 - Younger adults increasingly use messaging apps, particularly auto-deleting (e.g. Snapchat) or anonymous (e.g. YikYak, Whisper) apps, according to current research. In this paper we will describe changes in patterns of use of these tools by undergraduate students at the University of Edinburgh, and discuss the context and possible motivations for this shift as well as exploring issues of risk, privacy and long-term impact on online profiles. This paper draws upon the Managing Your Digital Footprint research project, reflecting on data collected through surveys in 2014 (n=587); 2015 (n=870); and 2016 (n=578). Questions on social media use and behaviours associated with personal online tracks and traces were explored across all three surveys, providing insight into shifts in adoption and use of these tools. Furthermore, the research project “A Live Pulse: Yik Yak in teaching learning and assessment at Edinburgh” (2016-17), will be introduced.Adoption and use of anonymous/pseudonymous tools sit in a wider context that we believe is important. The most popular social media sites increasingly attracting older new users; major advertising campaigns embed these spaces as mainstream, rather than edgy or for the young. At the same time young people are increasingly exposed to cyber security messages at school and appear to be deliberately turning to niche and/or hidden social media sites to bond and communicate.Measures like the UK Investigatory Powers Act (2016) are also making issues of surveillance, internet privacy and regulation a more pressing concern. As social media sites merge (e.g. Facebook acquiring WhatsApp and Instagram; Microsoft acquiring LinkedIn), as well as aggressive advertising (e.g. Google, Facebook), data use is becoming more visible. Anonymous/ pseudonymous sites appear to provide anonymity or ephemerality, and a degree of safety from surveillance (state, platform/advertiser, parental or employer), but we raise concerns about the etiquette and unfiltered expression in these spaces and perceived versus actual risks. Our work highlights the need for Higher Education to take seriously the risk, privacy, and long-term impact of this type of anonymous/pseudonymous social media usage.

AB - Younger adults increasingly use messaging apps, particularly auto-deleting (e.g. Snapchat) or anonymous (e.g. YikYak, Whisper) apps, according to current research. In this paper we will describe changes in patterns of use of these tools by undergraduate students at the University of Edinburgh, and discuss the context and possible motivations for this shift as well as exploring issues of risk, privacy and long-term impact on online profiles. This paper draws upon the Managing Your Digital Footprint research project, reflecting on data collected through surveys in 2014 (n=587); 2015 (n=870); and 2016 (n=578). Questions on social media use and behaviours associated with personal online tracks and traces were explored across all three surveys, providing insight into shifts in adoption and use of these tools. Furthermore, the research project “A Live Pulse: Yik Yak in teaching learning and assessment at Edinburgh” (2016-17), will be introduced.Adoption and use of anonymous/pseudonymous tools sit in a wider context that we believe is important. The most popular social media sites increasingly attracting older new users; major advertising campaigns embed these spaces as mainstream, rather than edgy or for the young. At the same time young people are increasingly exposed to cyber security messages at school and appear to be deliberately turning to niche and/or hidden social media sites to bond and communicate.Measures like the UK Investigatory Powers Act (2016) are also making issues of surveillance, internet privacy and regulation a more pressing concern. As social media sites merge (e.g. Facebook acquiring WhatsApp and Instagram; Microsoft acquiring LinkedIn), as well as aggressive advertising (e.g. Google, Facebook), data use is becoming more visible. Anonymous/ pseudonymous sites appear to provide anonymity or ephemerality, and a degree of safety from surveillance (state, platform/advertiser, parental or employer), but we raise concerns about the etiquette and unfiltered expression in these spaces and perceived versus actual risks. Our work highlights the need for Higher Education to take seriously the risk, privacy, and long-term impact of this type of anonymous/pseudonymous social media usage.

KW - Social Media

KW - Digital Footprint

KW - Privacy

KW - Undergraduates

T2 - ECSM17

Y2 - 3 July 2017 through 4 July 2017

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Gen Z mental health: The impact of tech and social media

Much like many relationships a person might have between ages 18 and 24, the relationship a young person has with social media  can be complicated. No matter where they live, respondents in a new global survey said social media usage can lead to a fear of missing out (FOMO) or poor body image, but it also can help with social connections and self-expression.

McKinsey Health Institute’s (MHI’s) 2022 Global Gen Z Survey asked more than 42,000 respondents in 26 countries across continents questions based on the four dimensions of health: mental, physical, social, and spiritual. 1 Participants were surveyed on the following nine key topics: overall health and well-being, mental health in the workplace, spiritual health and religion, social determinants of health, social media and digital health services, mental health service utilization, mental health among students, attitudes toward mental health, and global current events. As with all surveys, these data reflect a moment in time and MHI makes no long-term approximations about how these results will trend over time. MHI then analyzed differences and similarities across generations and countries, with a hope of informing the broader dialogue around Gen Z mental health.

Gen Zers, on average, are more likely than other generations to cite negative feelings about social media. 2 Social media is defined here as apps to connect, potentially broadly, with other users. It does not include direct messaging apps. They are also more likely to report having poor mental health. But correlation is not causation, and our data indicates that the relationship between social media use and mental health is complex. One surprise: Older generations’ engagement with these platforms is on par with Gen Zers. For example, baby boomers in eight of the 26 countries surveyed report spending as much time on social media as Gen Zers, with millennials being the most likely to post. And while negative impacts of social media were reported across cohorts, positive effects were even more common—more than 50 percent of all groups cited self-expression and social connectivity as positives from social media.

More than 50 percent of all groups cited self-expression and social connectivity as positives from social media.

There are also signs that technology provides access to supportive mental health resources for younger people. Gen Z respondents are more likely than other generations to use digital wellness apps and digital mental health programs. 3 Digital wellness apps are defined as consumer-driven digital applications that aim to reduce stress, improve well-being and productivity, and address nonclinical conditions for consumers, focusing on topics such as meditation, sleep tracking, cognitive behavioral therapy, and fitness. Digital mental health programs are telehealth programs that offer remote appointments with a healthcare provider (for example, physician, therapist), either over video or phone. Additionally, respondents indicate that certain aspects of social media use can benefit their mental health, such as using social media for self-expression. Young refugees and asylum seekers are among those most likely to cite social media as a tool to stay connected and decrease loneliness.

Methodology

To gain a better understanding of Gen Z in comparison with other generations, the McKinsey Health Institute conducted an internet-based survey in May 2022 in ten European countries (France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye, and United Kingdom), with approximately 1,000 completes per country (including around 600 Gen Z). In August 2022, an additional 1,600 completes per country (including 600 Gen Z) were collected from 16 mostly non-European countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, United States, Vietnam). In total, the survey collected responses from 42,083 people, including 16,824 Gen Z individuals (mostly 18–24-year-olds and including a negligible minority of 13–17-year-old non-European respondents), 13,080 millennials (25–40 years old), 6,937 Gen Xers (41–56 years old), 5,119 baby boomers (57–75 years old), and 123 from the Silent Generation (76–93 years old).

Within each country, the survey applied weights to match the distribution of age cohorts, gender, and share of population with tertiary education in the sample to the country’s national census. The sample was drawn from populations with access to the internet, which made the samples more representative of Gen Z respondents, in which nearly all individuals with access to the internet are active technology users; however, for other generations, this is less likely to be the case. This analysis reflects self-reported results in 2022.

Considerations for cross-generational surveys

The survey focused on how respondents—mainly Gen Z—were feeling at the time they were surveyed. Therefore, we cannot determine whether differences in answers between age cohorts are caused by an intrinsic change in attitudes and behaviors or are merely induced by age differences: it is possible that Gen Z will eventually think and behave like millennials, Gen X, or baby boomers, when they reach those ages.

Considerations for surveys conducted online

The survey was conducted online. Therefore, it may not accurately reflect the behaviors or attitudes of individuals who do not have reliable online access. This can be particularly significant in various aspects of life, given that the internet can have a profound impact on the information we access and how we process it.

Considerations for cross-country surveys

Cross-country, sociocultural differences can impact perceptions, scale usage, and affect other factors that may influence responses. However, we cannot automatically conclude that these differences are objective. For instance, the variations in answers on an agreement scale may be due to the respondent’s inclination to agree or disagree and their propensity to choose extreme answers such as “strongly disagree” or “strongly agree.”

Although we relied on cultural experts and youth reviewers to ensure equivalence of meanings across languages during translations, some observed differences across countries may still be induced by the translations.

To measure country differences, we computed country averages and used them to calculate simple averages across countries. By doing so, we treated each country equally, regardless of its population size.

In the six insights below, MHI delves deeper into the ways in which mental health, technology, and social media intersect for our respondents (see sidebar “Methodology” for further detail). This survey covered additional topics such as climate change and spiritual health (for selected insights, see sidebars “Climate change is a concern for many respondents” and “Gen Z and spiritual health: Insights”).

Gen Z respondents report challenges with health across most dimensions

Although many individuals around the world are struggling with their health, there are meaningful differences within groups.

Globally, one in seven baby boomers say their mental health has declined over the past three years, compared with one in four Gen Z respondents. Female Gen Zers were almost twice as likely to report poor mental health when compared with their male counterparts (21 percent versus 13 percent, respectively).

In most surveyed countries, a higher proportion of Gen Z respondents said their mental health was poor or very poor when compared with other dimensions of health (16 percent in Gen Z and 7 percent for baby boomers). However, in China, Egypt, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam, Gen Z respondents reported that they struggled most with their social health. Overall, mental health experiences varied by region, with Gen Z participants in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Nigeria rating their mental health as “very good” with the highest frequencies.

While Gen Z tends to report worse mental health, the underlying cause is not clear. There are several age-specific factors that may impact Gen Z’s mental health independent of their generational cohort, including developmental stage, level of engagement with healthcare, and familial or societal attitudes.

Almost everyone is using social media, but in different ways

More than 75 percent of respondents in all age groups said they use and check social media sites at least ten minutes a day.

Younger generations tend to engage with social media regularly, in both active and passive ways. Almost half of both millennial and Gen Z respondents check social media multiple times a day. Over one-third of Gen Z respondents say they spend more than two hours each day on social media sites; however, millennials are the most active social media users, with 32 percent stating they post either daily or multiple times a day.

Whether less active social media use by Gen Z respondents could be related to greater caution and self-awareness among youth, reluctance to commit, or more comfort with passive social media use remains up for debate. Studies have shown that passive social media use (for example, scrolling) could be linked to declines in subjective well-being over time. 1 Philippe Verduyn et al., “Passive Facebook usage undermines affective well-being: Experimental and longitudinal evidence,” Journal of Experimental Psychology: General , 2015, Volume 144, Number 2.

Gen Zers and millennials are more likely than other generations to say social media affects their mental health

Studies of young adults and their social media use have shown an inverse relationship between screen time and psychological well-being, 1 Jean Twenge et al., “Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study,” Preventive Medicine Reports , 2018, Volume 12. with higher utilization associated with poorer well-being. Other research indicates the nature of the relationship individuals have with social media can have a greater impact on their mental health than time spent. 2 Mesfin A. Bekalu, Rachel F. McCloud, and K. Viswanath, “Association of social media use with social well-being, positive mental health, and self-rated health: Disentangling routine use from emotional connection to use,” Health Education & Behavior , 2019, Volume 46, Number 2.

Our findings show a nuanced relationship between social media use and mental health. While around one-third of respondents across cohorts report positive impacts of social media on mental health, generations differ in reported negative impacts.

Negative effects seem to be greatest for younger generations, with particularly pronounced impacts for Gen Zers who spend more than two hours a day on social media and Gen Zers with poor mental health. Gen Z respondents from Europe and Oceania were most likely to report negative impacts from social media, and respondents from Asia were least likely (32 percent and 19 percent, respectively). 3 Participants were requested to rank 13 factors, including technology and social media, on how they perceive their impact on mental health. There is the possibility for varying interpretation of what classifies as negative or positive effects. Differences across generations and regions could be influenced in part by social media algorithms.

While the positive impact stays comparable, older generations report fewer negative effects

All generational cohorts in the survey said that social media use had the most positive impact on self-expression and social connectivity. Self-reported refugees and asylum seekers cite higher levels of positive impact than others across all aspects.

Across generations, there are more positive than negative impacts reported by respondents; however, the reported negative impact is higher for Gen Z. Respondents from high-income countries (as defined by World Bank) were twice as likely to report a negative impact of social media on their lives than respondents from lower-middle-income countries (13 percent compared with 7 percent).

When compared with their male counterparts, a higher proportion of female Gen Zers said social media had a negative impact on FOMO (32 percent versus 22 percent), body image (32 percent versus 16 percent), and self-confidence (24 percent versus 13 percent).

Positive aspects of technology may include increased access to health resources

Across generations, more than one in four respondents report using digital wellness apps as compared with one out of five using digital mental health programs (28 percent compared with 19 percent, respectively). Fifty percent more Gen Z respondents reported using digital mental health programs than Gen X or baby boomers (22 percent for Gen Z versus 15 percent for Gen X and baby boomers).

Among those respondents who report using digital mental health programs, most Gen Zers say they would likely keep using them (65 percent); other generations are even more committed, with 74 percent reporting that they would likely continue to use the programs. Four out of five respondents across all generations report that these programs benefit their mental health.

While evaluation of outcomes and effectiveness requires continued study, digital health resources may play an important role in supporting mental health globally, especially when in-person resources are limited or geographically inaccessible. For certain populations, digital health resources could be the preferred method of obtaining support.

Most find help on their own or by referral

Thirty-four percent of Gen Z respondents who use digital mental health programs and apps say they found them on their own. This proportion increases to approximately 50 percent in Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, and South Africa. In other countries, primary care physicians and healthcare payers (insurance plans) were listed as primary access points to digital mental health programs.

No matter the geography, employers have growing  opportunities to promote workplace well-being and ensure employees have access to the evidence-based mental health resources they need.

At least a third of respondents in most countries and generational cohorts said physical, mental, social, and spiritual health resources were important or very important in choosing an employer, and Gen Z gave particular weight to mental health resources. Given that Gen Z is a growing percentage of the workforce, and that few Gen Z respondents cited employers as a primary access point for help, there may be room for employers to further  engage around mental health in the future.

Technology and social media can be a part of the solution

Climate change is a concern for many respondents.

Climate change appears to be a major concern across generations: in the McKinsey Health Institute 2022 Global Gen Z Survey, more than half of respondents across all age groups reported feeling highly distressed when asked about climate change, with females reporting a higher percentage compared with males. Many Gen Z respondents reported experiencing stress, sadness, anger, and frustration due to climate change and its related disasters. More than 50 percent of total respondents expressed fear and anxiety about the future, with Gen Z demonstrating greater concern than other generations. More than 50 percent of all respondents agree or strongly agree that “government leaders and companies have failed to take care of the planet.”

This fear is not purely existential about the fate of the world or “eco-anxiety,” but instead is often rooted in specific environmental risks that may impact their direct day-to-day livelihoods. When asked about which statements related to climate change resonated with them, 33 percent agree or strongly agree that climate change poses a threat to their family’s physical or financial security. Individuals with self-reported poor mental health are more likely to feel affected by climate change, with 67 percent of Gen Z in this group stating that the future is “frightening” when looking at climate change, compared with 47 percent of Gen Z with neutral or good mental health.

Given the complex and multifaceted nature of mental health and climate change threats and related disruptions, there are no simple answers to the challenges they pose. There is an opportunity for further understanding of how experiences and attitudes around climate change may be influenced by political and ecological factors. However, in order to help young people navigate these issues, healthcare providers, educators, and parents can take a proactive approach by exploring these topics through targeted questioning and solution-oriented discussions. By encouraging young people to think critically about mental health and climate change, the focus can become empowerment and active role-playing to promote personal well-being, climate resilience, and the health of the planet.

Social media and technology, while part of the broader dialogue around youth mental health, can be powerful tools in promoting well-being and offering scaled mental health support. For example, developers might consider embedding algorithms that make it easier for youth expressing psychological distress to find support groups, crisis hotlines, or emergency mental health services. Additionally, digital mental health companies could consider partnering with virtual and community-based providers to connect people with high-acuity needs to timely and culturally-appropriate crisis services.

Gen Z and spiritual health: Insights

According to the McKinsey Health Institute 2022 Global Gen Z survey, those between the ages of 18 and 24 report poorer spiritual health than older generations, with Gen Z respondents almost three times more likely than baby boomers to report poor or very poor spiritual health.

Spiritual health enables people to integrate meaning in their lives. Spiritually healthy people have a strong sense of purpose. While people who are experiencing poor mental health could have good spiritual health, or vice versa, Gen Z individuals who experienced poor mental health were five times more likely to report poor spiritual health than those with neutral or good mental health.

Responses varied widely by country, both in terms of overall ratings of spiritual health and in respondents’ perceived importance of spiritual health. For example, there was a 48-point range across countries in respondents indicating that spiritual health was “extremely important” to them. While 8 percent of total respondents in the Netherlands said spiritual health was “extremely important” to them, 56 percent of total respondents in Brazil said the same. Respondents in higher-income countries were half as likely to indicate spiritual health is “extremely important” to them versus lower-middle-income countries (23 percent versus 43 percent).

Respondents in Africa and South America were most likely to report that spiritual health was extremely important to them (46 percent and 41 percent, respectively); respondents in Europe were least likely (18 percent).

Given these data, it’s clear that spiritual health matters to young people around the world, and there may be important links to overall well-being. People seeking to support the mental health and psychological resilience of young people may want to inquire about how they are finding purpose in their homes, families, and at work.

Around the world, communities are struggling to provide young people with someone to call, someone to respond, or a safe place to get help during mental health, substance use, and/or suicidal crises . The availability of crisis supports globally is varied, with the majority of countries having no national suicide or mental health crisis line. In addition, communities in every geography lack adequate community mental health services infrastructure to respond to the volume of crises young people experience each year, instead relying on schools, emergency rooms, hospitals, law enforcement, or families to bridge a gap that could save lives and livelihoods. Dispatching specially trained mobile teams or providing a safe place to go in crisis is even more rare—a gap that technology could bridge.

Collaboration between technology companies, mental health professionals, educators, employers, policy makers, and the wider community is necessary. By prioritizing mental health and utilizing technology in a positive way, young people are more likely to achieve and sustain better health. Other strategies that could be considered include using social media to build supportive online communities for affinity groups and promoting youth leaders to create and disseminate content that promotes mental health. 4 Mizuko Ito, Candice Odgers, and Stephen Schueller, Social media and youth wellbeing: What we know and where we could go , Connected Learning Alliance, June 2020. Researchers and companies can explore evidence-based strategies such as mental health promotion and mindfulness programs to mitigate the negative effects of social media and to help young people use social media as a platform for authentic self-expression. 5 Julia Brailovskaia and Jürgen Margraf, “Positive mental health and mindfulness as protective factors against addictive social media use during the COVID-19 outbreak,” PLOS One , 2022, Volume 17, Number 11.

A “precision prevention” approach to talking with young people about the role of technology in their lives may help create a more informed, supportive, and healthful environment. By providing parents, educators, and healthcare professionals with these tools, they can become actively engaged in promoting the health of Gen Z and beyond. While addressing these issues may seem overwhelming, it is essential that stakeholders work together to help improve the mental health of young people.

MHI is an enduring, non-profit-generating global entity within McKinsey. MHI strives to catalyze actions across continents, sectors, and communities to achieve material improvements in health, empowering people to lead their best possible lives. MHI sees supporting youth mental health as essential to adding years to life and life to years.

If you would like to learn more about the McKinsey Health Institute (MHI) 2022 Global Gen Z survey and the additional data and insights the McKinsey Health Institute has from the survey, please submit an inquiry via the MHI “contact us” form . The McKinsey Health Institute, as a non-profit-generating entity of McKinsey, is creating avenues for further research that can catalyze action.

Erica Coe is a coleader at the McKinsey Health Institute and a partner in McKinsey’s Atlanta office. Kana Enomoto is a coleader at the McKinsey Health Institute and an associate partner in the Washington, DC, office, where Andrew Doy is a consultant and Cheryl Healy is an associate partner.

The authors wish to thank Nicolas Abi-Chacra, Lea Arora, Victoria Bennett, Abby Bloomfield, Ulrike Deetjen, Alexandru Degeratu, Martin Dewhurst, Joseph Jung, Abhishek Mahajan, Roxanne Sabbag, Emma Summerton, Pooja Tatwawadi, and Oliver Walker for their contributions to this article. They also wish to thank MHI geographical leaders Alistair Carmichael, Andira Putri, and Shriya Sethi. They also wish to thank the European Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (ESCAP) affiliates and Orygen for providing their local expertise and helping shape the MHI Global Gen Z Survey (2022). They also wish to thank Megan Jones Bell, Murali Doraiswamy, Sharon Hoover, Roberta Katz, Shekhar Saxena, and Anil Thapliyal for their contributions.

This article was edited by Elizabeth Newman, an executive editor in the Chicago office.

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More From Forbes

Why the uk’s tiktok election should prioritise substance over meme.

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SWINDON, UNITED KINGDOM - MARCH 30: Labour Party leader Keir Starmer takes a selfie during the ... [+] launch of Labour's Local Election campaign on March 30, 2023 in Swindon, England. Labour sets out its plans to "build a better Britain" and its campaign to win council seats in the local elections due to take place on May 5, 2023. (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images) (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)

Remember when TikTok used to be a politics-free zone? A place where you could scroll to your heart’s content, either detaching yourself from the real world via dogs behaving badly, GRWM videos and Harry Potter illusions, or keeping up with your favourite TikTokers and the micro-trends they’re sporting.

Entertainment isn’t the only factor driving users in their droves to the social media platform. Since the pandemic, there’s been a significant shift in how and why users engage. TikTok has emerged as Google’s successor and a preferred search engine for the under 30s , meaning it has evolved into a hub for breaking news. This has subsequently increased interest amongst both legacy and micro publishers.

However, the new social status quo was disrupted on the 22nd May this year. Rishi Sunak’s decision to call a general election didn’t just rock the political landscape, it also kickstarted the TikTok election. For this UK election, smartphones have quickly replaced television screens as the best arena in which to trade political wit.

But this isn’t where the tactical shift ends. Policy-centric barbs have been replaced by memes as the political weapon of choice — the reasoning being that this is the most ‘effective’ way to get attention and generate conversation. And parties, regardless of whether they’re blue, red or yellow, have been unable to resist jumping on this bandwagon.

What does your audience actually want?

From the Labour Party mocking Sunak’s National Service policy with a clip of Cilla Black’s iconic Surprise Surprise tune racking up 4.8M views and counting , to the Conservatives throwing shade at Labour’s apparent lack of innovative policies, TikTok has become a political battleground where things are getting messy. Even the Liberal Democrats have been in on the action, using soundbites from cult classic Peep Show episodes and floating their Deputy Leader on a boat behind the Prime Minister as he campaigned in Henley-on-Thames.

Biden Vs Trump 2024 Election Polls Trump Leads As Most Voters Unmoved By His Conviction New Poll Shows

Inside out 2 end credits scenes explained, nyt strands hints spangram and answers for friday june 14.

Pop culture references and poking fun have become the order of the day for the UK’s political parties this election. But unfortunately, this just highlights an alarming disconnect between political parties and the general population, especially younger audiences.

For many of the so-called political masterminds, substance has been replaced by their idea of style. As of the 31st May, Labour had posted 54 videos on TikTok, a vastly superior amount to the Conservatives’ 14 . However, few of these (if any) actually highlighted a party policy or spoke to a key party decision-maker, reinforcing the fact that every party seems to have lost sight of what voting truly hinges on: aligning an audience with a political agenda.

Don’t just create memes, deliver policies

No one is disputing the elevated, important role that social media has to play in the forthcoming UK election. TikTok is ingrained in the public’s daily routine, often being the first app opened in the morning and the last thing scrolled through at night.

This means that its share of screen time is only trending in one direction. Android owners spend an average of 49 hours per month on TikTok . The closest contender, YouTube, only accounted for 19 hours.

However, if parties want to tap into the channel’s full potential, their first point of call should be to stop patronising audiences. That’s because the next generation don’t want memes when it comes to their politicians. Indeed, a 2023 study found that TikTok is the most favourable single source of news for teenagers in the UK . This generation wants well-informed political content that speaks to what they care about in a way that feels organic to the platform.

It’s not the party that achieves the biggest laugh that will be sitting pretty in Downing Street come 4th July. Irreverent memes that poke fun at the opposition don’t instil confidence. Social media managers should be looking to create value-driven content via high-performing formats.

Fostering community and trust

Following this vein of thinking, don’t be afraid to utilise the features that make social platforms such as TikTok unique and stand out from traditional formats — namely, their ability to facilitate greater interactions. Q&A sessions, live streams, vodcasts, and interactive polls all provide opportunities to engage directly with and get feedback from next-gen audiences.

Political parties shouldn’t be quaking in their boots at the thought of hearing from their constituents. After all, they’re meant to be accountable to the people. Encouraging real-time dialogue makes people feel heard and genuinely involved in the political process. What’s more, this isn’t a one-stop shop. Highlighting responses and adapting audience-led content into future instalments can foster a sense of trust and community.

Finally, the conversation doesn’t always have to be kickstarted by political content. Topics may not automatically stand out as relevant, but if they’re already generating widespread conversation, they can prove to be the optimal gateway to capture audiences’ attention. Take the recent virality of our ‘man vs bear’ video on TikTok.

By paying attention to the conversations happening online, we were able to take the temperature of the cultural mood and deliver a piece of content that didn’t just generate millions of views around the world. More importantly, it sparked a global conversation about women’s safety and even some powerful, if not heartbreaking, graffiti .

This conversation is one that political parties should be paying attention to. Ultimately, understanding what social audiences care about helps politicians develop policies that the next generation might actually vote for.

By presenting political alignment within these conversations, parties can further bring their policies home and stay positionally in touch with the next generation.

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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.

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Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Sociology of Media and Communication — Social Media

Argumentative Essays About Social Media

This is a comprehensive resource to help you find the perfect social media essay topic. Whether you're navigating the complexities of digital communication, exploring the impact of social media on society, or examining its effects on personal identity, the right topic can transform your essay into a captivating and insightful exploration. Remember, selecting a topic that resonates with your personal interests and academic goals not only makes the writing process more enjoyable but also enriches your learning experience. Let's dive into a world of creativity and critical thinking!

Essay Types and Topics

Below, you'll find a curated list of essay topics organized by type. Each section includes diverse topics that touch on technology, society, personal growth, and academic interests, along with introduction and conclusion paragraph examples to get you started.

Argumentative Essays

Introduction Example: "In the digital age, social media platforms have become central to our daily interactions and self-perception, particularly among teenagers. This essay explores the impact of social media on teen self-esteem, arguing that while it offers a space for expression and connection, it also presents significant challenges to self-image. "

Conclusion Example: "Having delved into the complex relationship between social media and teen self-esteem, it is clear that the digital landscape holds profound effects on individual self-perception. This essay reaffirms the thesis that social media can both uplift and undermine teen self-esteem, calling for a balanced approach to digital engagement."

Introduction Example: "As political landscapes evolve, social media has emerged as a powerful tool for political mobilization and engagement. This essay investigates the role of social media in shaping political movements, positing that it significantly enhances communication and organizational capabilities, yet raises questions about information authenticity. "

Conclusion Example: "Through examining the dual facets of social media in political mobilization, the essay concludes that while social media is a pivotal tool for engagement, it necessitates critical scrutiny of information to ensure a well-informed public discourse."

Compare and Contrast Essays

Introduction Example: "In the competitive realm of digital marketing, Instagram and Twitter stand out as leading platforms for brand promotion. This essay compares and contrasts their effectiveness, revealing that each platform caters to unique marketing strengths due to its specific user engagement and content dissemination strategies. "

Conclusion Example: "The comparative analysis of Instagram and Twitter highlights distinct advantages for brands, with Instagram excelling in visual storytelling and Twitter in real-time engagement, underscoring the importance of strategic platform selection in digital marketing."

Descriptive Essays

Introduction Example: "Today's social media landscape is a vibrant tapestry of platforms, each contributing to the digital era's social fabric. This essay describes the characteristics and cultural significance of current social media trends, illustrating that they reflect and shape our societal values and interactions. "

Conclusion Example: "In portraying the dynamic and diverse nature of today's social media landscape, this essay underscores its role in molding contemporary cultural and social paradigms, inviting readers to reflect on their digital footprints."

Persuasive Essays

Introduction Example: "In an era where digital presence is ubiquitous, fostering positive social media habits is essential for mental and emotional well-being. This essay advocates for mindful social media use, arguing that intentional engagement can enhance our life experiences rather than detract from them. "

Conclusion Example: "This essay has championed the cause for positive social media habits, reinforcing the thesis that through mindful engagement, individuals can navigate the digital world in a way that promotes personal growth and well-being."

Narrative Essays

Introduction Example: "Embarking on a personal journey with social media has been both enlightening and challenging. This narrative essay delves into my experiences, highlighting how social media has influenced my perception of self and community. "

Conclusion Example: "Reflecting on my social media journey, this essay concludes that while it has significantly shaped my interactions and self-view, it has also offered invaluable lessons on connectivity and self-awareness, affirming the nuanced role of digital platforms in our lives."

Engagement and Creativity

As you explore these topics, remember to approach your essay with an open mind and creative spirit. The purpose of academic writing is not just to inform but to engage and provoke thought. Use this opportunity to delve deep into your topic, analyze different perspectives, and articulate your own insights.

Educational Value

Each essay type offers unique learning outcomes. Argumentative essays enhance your analytical thinking and ability to construct well-founded arguments. Compare and contrast essays develop your skills in identifying similarities and differences. Descriptive essays improve your ability to paint vivid pictures through words, while persuasive essays refine your ability to influence and convince. Finally, narrative essays offer a platform for personal expression and storytelling. Embrace these opportunities to grow academically and personally.

Some Easy Argumentative Essay Topics on Social Media

• The Impact of Social Media: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Is Social Media Enhancing or Eroding Our Real-Life Social Skills?
• Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Social Media Content to Protect Youth?
• Social Media's Role in Relationships: Communication Enhancer or Barrier
• Does Social Media Contribute to Political Polarization?
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Perceptions of Divorce
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Benefit or Harm?
• Can Social Media Be Considered a Reliable Source of News and Information?
• Is Social Media Responsible for the Rise in Cyberbullying?
• Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• Does Social Media Promote Narcissism and Self-Centered Behaviors?
• The Role of Social Media in Business Marketing: Is It Indispensable?

Social Media Addiction

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Pros and Cons of Social Media: Social Networking

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Social Media Cons and Prons: Evaluating Its Advantages and Disadvantage

The importance of staying safe on social media, impact of social media on our lives, social media: negative effects and addiction, discussion on whether is social media beneficial or harmful for society, negative effects of social media: relationships and communication, social media pros and cons, social media - good and bad sides, a study of the role of social media concerning confidentiality of personal data, how social media causes stereotyping, social media addiction: consequences and strategies for recovery, the role of social media in making us more narcissistic, the effect social media is having on today's society and political atmosphere, digital/social media, censorship in social media, why teenagers are addicted to social media and how it affects them, advantages and disadvantages of social media for society, enormous impact of mass media on children, the role of social media in the current business world, social media is the reason for many of the world’s problems and solutions.

Social media refers to dynamic online platforms that enable individuals to actively engage in the generation and dissemination of various forms of content, including information, ideas, and personal interests. These interactive digital channels foster virtual communities and networks, allowing users to connect, communicate, and express themselves. By harnessing the power of technology, social media platforms provide a space for individuals to share and exchange content, fostering connections and facilitating the flow of information in an increasingly digital world.

In a peculiar manner, the inception of social media can be traced back to May 24, 1844, when a sequence of electronic dots and dashes was manually tapped on a telegraph machine. Although the origins of digital communication have deep historical roots, most contemporary narratives regarding the modern beginnings of the internet and social media often point to the emergence of the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) in 1969. The year 1987 witnessed the establishment of the direct precursor to today's internet, as the National Science Foundation introduced the more robust and expansive NSFNET, a nationwide digital network. A significant milestone occurred in 1997 when Six Degrees, the first genuine social media platform, was launched.

Mark Zuckerberg is a notable figure in the realm of social media as the co-founder and CEO of Facebook. Zuckerberg played a pivotal role in transforming Facebook from a small networking platform for college students into a global social media giant with billions of users. His innovative ideas and strategic decisions have reshaped the way people connect and share information online, making him one of the most influential individuals in the digital age. Jack Dorsey is recognized as one of the key pioneers of social media, notably for co-founding Twitter. Dorsey's creation revolutionized online communication by introducing the concept of microblogging, allowing users to share short messages in real-time. Twitter quickly gained popularity, becoming a powerful platform for news dissemination, public conversations, and social movements. Dorsey's entrepreneurial spirit and vision have contributed significantly to the evolution of social media and its impact on society. Sheryl Sandberg is a prominent figure in the social media landscape, known for her influential role as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Facebook.Sandberg played a crucial part in scaling and monetizing Facebook's operations, transforming it into a global advertising powerhouse. She is also recognized for her advocacy of women's empowerment and leadership in the tech industry, inspiring countless individuals and promoting diversity and inclusion within the social media sphere. Sandberg's contributions have left an indelible mark on the growth and development of social media platforms worldwide.

Social Networking Sites: Facebook, LinkedIn, and MySpace. Microblogging Platforms: Twitter. Media Sharing Networks: Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. Discussion Forums and Community-Based Platforms: Reddit and Quora. Blogging Platforms: WordPress and Blogger. Social Bookmarking and Content Curation Platforms: Pinterest and Flipboard. Messaging Apps: WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and WeChat.

Facebook (2004), Reddit (2005), Twitter (2006), Instagram (2010), Pinterest (2010), Snapchat (2011), TikTok (2016)

1. Increased Connectivity 2. Information Sharing and Awareness 3. Networking and Professional Opportunities 4. Creativity and Self-Expression 5. Supportive Communities and Causes

1. Privacy Concerns 2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment 3. Information Overload and Misinformation 4. Time and Productivity Drain 5. Comparison and Self-Esteem Issues

The topic of social media holds significant importance for students as it plays a prominent role in their lives, both academically and socially. Social media platforms provide students with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge with peers, expanding their learning networks beyond the confines of the classroom. It facilitates communication and access to educational resources, allowing students to stay updated on academic trends and research. Additionally, social media enhances digital literacy and prepares students for the realities of the digital age. However, it is crucial for students to develop critical thinking skills to navigate the potential pitfalls of social media, such as misinformation and online safety, ensuring a responsible and balanced use of these platforms.

The topic of social media is worthy of being explored in an essay due to its profound impact on various aspects of society. Writing an essay on social media allows for an in-depth examination of its influence on communication, relationships, information sharing, and societal dynamics. It offers an opportunity to analyze the advantages and disadvantages, exploring topics such as privacy, online identities, social activism, and the role of social media in shaping cultural norms. Additionally, studying social media enables a critical evaluation of its effects on mental health, politics, and business. By delving into this subject, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex and ever-evolving digital landscape we inhabit.

1. Social media users spend an average of 2 hours and 25 minutes per day on social networking platforms. This amounts to over 7 years of an individual's lifetime spent on social media, highlighting its significant presence in our daily lives. 2. Instagram has over 1 billion monthly active users, with more than 500 million of them using the platform on a daily basis. 3. YouTube has over 2 billion logged-in monthly active users. On average, users spend over 1 billion hours watching YouTube videos every day, emphasizing the platform's extensive reach and the power of video content. 4. Social media has become a major news source, with 48% of people getting their news from social media platforms. This shift in news consumption highlights the role of social media in shaping public opinion and disseminating information in real-time. 5. Influencer marketing has grown exponentially, with 63% of marketers planning to increase their influencer marketing budget in the coming year. This showcases the effectiveness of influencers in reaching and engaging with target audiences, and the value brands place on leveraging social media personalities to promote their products or services.

1. Schober, M. F., Pasek, J., Guggenheim, L., Lampe, C., & Conrad, F. G. (2016). Social media analyses for social measurement. Public opinion quarterly, 80(1), 180-211. (https://academic.oup.com/poq/article-abstract/80/1/180/2593846) 2. Appel, G., Grewal, L., Hadi, R., & Stephen, A. T. (2020). The future of social media in marketing. Journal of the Academy of Marketing science, 48(1), 79-95. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11747-019-00695-1?error=cookies_not_support) 3. Aichner, T., Grünfelder, M., Maurer, O., & Jegeni, D. (2021). Twenty-five years of social media: a review of social media applications and definitions from 1994 to 2019. Cyberpsychology, behavior, and social networking, 24(4), 215-222. (https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/cyber.2020.0134) 4. Ruths, D., & Pfeffer, J. (2014). Social media for large studies of behavior. Science, 346(6213), 1063-1064. (https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/science.346.6213.1063) 5. Hou, Y., Xiong, D., Jiang, T., Song, L., & Wang, Q. (2019). Social media addiction: Its impact, mediation, and intervention. Cyberpsychology: Journal of psychosocial research on cyberspace, 13(1). (https://cyberpsychology.eu/article/view/11562) 6. Auxier, B., & Anderson, M. (2021). Social media use in 2021. Pew Research Center, 1, 1-4. (https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2021/04/PI_2021.04.07_Social-Media-Use_FINAL.pdf) 7. Al-Samarraie, H., Bello, K. A., Alzahrani, A. I., Smith, A. P., & Emele, C. (2021). Young users' social media addiction: causes, consequences and preventions. Information Technology & People, 35(7), 2314-2343. (https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ITP-11-2020-0753/full/html) 8. Bhargava, V. R., & Velasquez, M. (2021). Ethics of the attention economy: The problem of social media addiction. Business Ethics Quarterly, 31(3), 321-359. (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/business-ethics-quarterly/article/ethics-of-the-attention-economy-the-problem-of-social-mediaaddiction/1CC67609A12E9A912BB8A291FDFFE799)

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In their own words: What young people wish they’d known about social media

The apps and social networks that are consuming so much of young people’s attention were initially designed for adults, not children. With that in mind, we asked teens and young adults to reflect on what they wish they had known as kids about social media.

Bao Le, 18, sits for a photo on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

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Sienna Keene, 17, poses for photos in Orinda, Calif., Monday, April 29, 2024. The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Lea Nepomuceno, 18, a freshman at George Washington University, poses on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Washington, D.C. The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

Ava Havidic, 18, poses outside her high school, Wednesday, April 24, 2024, in Tamarac, Fla. The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

Doreen Malata, 22, a senior at University of Maryland, poses for a photo on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in College Park, Md. The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

Nour Mahmoud, 21, a junior at Virginia Commonwealth University, is shown on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Richmond, Va. The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

Mikael Makonnen, 18, a freshman at American University, poses for a photo in Washington, D.C, on Saturday, March 2, 2024, The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

Madeleine Maestre, 18, a freshman at Santa Clara University, poses for photos in Santa Clara, Calif., Friday, May 3, 2024. The Associated Press spoke with teenagers and young adults about their experiences on social media and what they wish they had known when they first got online. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

It’s dangerous. It’s addictive. Get off your phone.

Kids constantly hear about the downsides of social media from the adults in their lives , often in the form of dire warnings and commands. But these adults did not grow up with social media themselves.

They didn’t get a phone handed to them as toddlers, just to keep them quiet in a restaurant. They didn’t join TikTok’s predecessor Musica.ly and do silly dances before they even learned to read. They didn’t have their schools shut down in a global pandemic , their connections to friends and peers relegated to phone and computer screens.

Kids coming of age with social media are forging ahead in a whole new world. And now that they are getting older, they have some advice for their younger peers.

Here’s what they wish they knew when they first got online.

Bao Le, 18, sits for a photo on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

You don’t have to share everything

“It’s so easy to look at your friends’ stories and feel this feeling of FOMO, of missing out and comparing yourself, like: ‘Oh, my friend just got a new car.’ It’s like this overwhelming sense of comparison. But the things that people post on social media, it’s just the highlight reel, like the 1% of their life that they want to showcase to other people.”

BAO LE , 18, a freshman at Vanderbilt University

Doreen Malata, 22, a senior at University of Maryland, poses for a photo on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

Don’t take it too seriously

“My main point of advice would be not to take it too seriously. Be yourself. I feel like what I was exposed to as a 12-year-old was much more limited than what is accessible to 12–year-olds nowadays. Younger kids want to be who they idolize. And when the TikTok stars or the social media stars are 20, 18, 16, they’re going to want to be like them. You’re getting younger kids that are now obsessing over products and brands, and it’s just getting really hard to be young. And it shouldn’t be really hard to be young. You should be enjoying childhood. And we shouldn’t be rushing to grow up. It’s OK to be 12. It’s OK to be young. It’s OK to enjoy childhood.”

DOREEN MALATA , 22, a senior at the University of Maryland

Sienna Keene, 17, poses for photos in Orinda, Calif., Monday, April 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

How addictive it is

“It seems like it would be really easy to just put your phone down and stop scrolling. But it is not. If there was advice that I could give to my younger self, it would be to tell my parents to set up time limits for me — even though I would have never said that when I was starting social media. Also, I personally would not let my kid have TikTok. I would try to resist it as long as I could. It’s so addictive.”

SIENNA KEENE , 17, a high school senior in Orinda, California

Ava Havidic, 18, poses outside her high school, Wednesday, April 24, 2024, in Tamarac, Fla. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

Take a social media detox

“When you first get these apps, it hits you — like, BOOM, there is so much content. Styles, fashion models. It really impacts you heavily when you first get it, this feeling of: ‘How do they do it? How do they look like this? How do they get clothes like that?’ When you’re new to social media, these trends can overtake you. I started to use screentime (monitoring) on my phone and limit the amount of time I am on social media. I’ve been taking phone detoxes. On weekends, I’ll take a social media detox for 10 hours or the majority of the day. I’ll hang out with my family, ride my bike. I only have notifications for my messages and workspaces. I don’t have any notifications on for social media apps.”

AVA HAVIDIC , 18, a high school senior in Broward County, Florida

Lea Nepomuceno, 18, a freshman at George Washington University, poses on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

You are the one in control

“Often I hear the term “social media user,” but I felt like I was being used by social media. I had this routine of scrolling mindlessly through TikTok, just scrolling and scrolling and comparing myself to other people. It ultimately really affected my body image, my perception of what was considered beautiful or accepted into society. But the only thing I was getting out of social media was feeling fatigued, or I would feel sad.

You can use social media to amplify your passions, but in order to do that you need to do a lot of work outside of social media, to discover who you are as a person, what matters to you and what contributions you can make to the world.”

LEA NEPOMUCENO , 18, a freshman at George Washington University

Mikael Makonnen, 18, a freshman at American University, poses for a photo in Washington, D.C, on Saturday, March 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

It’s a waste of time

“I would say just don’t use it. It’s kind of a waste of time. You’re just having conversations about pointless things, random pop culture stuff. It just sucks your time. You’re not really getting anything out of it, just short-term satisfaction. It’s kind of meaningless. I know this is kind of outlandish, but I feel like there should be some sort of age limit because I don’t think children should be on the internet.”

MIKAEL MAKONNEN , 18, a freshman at American University

Nour Mahmoud, 21, a junior at Virginia Commonwealth University, is shown on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Richmond, Va. (AP Photo/Almaz Abedje)

A lot of it is not real

“A lot of people make their life artificial so that they’re perceived in a certain way. And I think going into social media, I wish I knew it is a tool to learn from. There’s so much information, and you’re able to learn so much about different things. ... I wish people had that outlook rather than the whole idea of other people viewing you and having to be seen a certain way.”

NOUR MAHMOUD , 21, a junior at Virginia Commonwealth University

Madeleine Maestre, 18, a freshman at Santa Clara University, poses for photos in Santa Clara, Calif., Friday, May 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

It’s OK to put up boundaries and block someone

“You can’t scroll on TikTok or look through Instagram without seeing supermodels who have edited their photos and are promoting unrealistic beauty standards. I don’t want to see these girls who pretend to be fitness influencers but are just promoting an eating disorder like “body checking” on my feed. That is one thing I wish I knew when I started: that it is OK to not want to look at that or want to consume it. It’s OK to protect yourself and your own body image. Another thing I wish I knew is that not everyone on social media is your friend. When you are young and impressionable and people are reaching out to you, just know that not everyone is as friendly as you think they are.”

MADELEINE MAESTRE , 18, a freshman at Santa Clara University

Interviews by Almaz Abedje, Jocelyn Gecker and Barbara Ortutay

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Social Media Essay : An Ultimate Guide with Trending Topics

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Learning materials, availability, positive impact of social media: the advantages, negative impact of social media: the disadvantages.

In the current scenario, staying away from social media is not only impossible but the most foolish thing. It is so because it will help you in several ways, not only in your personal life but in academics as well. Thus, this is the reason students are assigned  social media essay  on a regular basis.

There is no doubt that social media platforms have changed the way people interact, share and communicate with each other. However, before jumping to anything else about the same, it is crucial to get along with the term social media first. So, read ahead to explore the same.

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What Is Social Media and Its Various Types?

Social media is a platform that is combinedly used for websites that provides a base for people to communicate smoothly. However, this is not confined to communication; rather, it also involves knowledge sharing, news spreading, marketing, and networking. Moreover, to write anything about social media essays, you first need to get along with several social media platforms to ease your work. So, here are some popular social media sites:

It is one of the latest social media platforms popularly used to share pictures and videos. Moreover, this has a significant impact on the private lives of young people that you need to perceive.

It is the oldest platform that is popular both with young and old crowds. Moreover, it is utilised to look upon social, political, cultural, and environmental issues by being a powerful resource.

It is definitely the perfect platform to post videos about nearly anything. Everyone from a politician to a singer or musician uses YouTube to share their view on any particular topic.

It is another popular platform that includes several features, such as live video, messaging, and more. It is available in more than 20 languages across the world.

This social media platform is used to write short messages that are known as tweets. These are widely used to spread emergency news quickly.

These were some popularly used social media platforms that you can be asked to write a descriptive, comparative, or analytical essay  on. Thus, it is time to move ahead and explore the points of importance of  social media essays  for a student.

What Is the Importance of Social Media?

It is common thinking that these social media platforms have a terrible influence on student's life and lead to a decrease in their grades. But, if you use it wisely, it can be a great tool that can help you to improve your several skills. These platforms can be used to improve your communication, knowledge sharing and writing skills. Thus, working on a  social media essay  is one of the effective ways to improve or learn these skills. It is one of the reasons why students are assigned these write-ups on a regular basis. Moreover, there are several other features of social media as well that you can benefit from while drafting  social media essays.

You can take classes or attend lectures just by sitting at your home with these platforms.

You can read blogs and watch videos to enhance your existing knowledge about any topic.

You can clear your doubts at any point in time and even after school hours are over.

These are some purposes that social media platforms solve for a student. Moving ahead, let us look at the pros and cons of the same in brief.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media Essay

There are two sides to the same coin, and looking at both is necessary while working on anything. Thus. While drafting social media essays , you must know the pros and cons of it as well. So, first, let us take you along with some positive pointers:

Listed below are the advantages that you will avail from the social media :

• Social media is an excellent tool for businesses as they can promote their brand or services without spending a lot. Moreover, through this, you can also create awareness among potential customers.
• It is the fastest mode of transferring knowledge among the audience. Thus, it can be used in emergency situations where quick actions are crucial.
• Using social media, you can regain your self-esteem and build confidence in yourself by flaunting your hidden talent to the entire world.
• It increases the ability to get instant feedback for the product or service you are delivering to the customers.

These are the positive pointers that social media has to serve you with. Moreover, while drafting a  social media essay , you will ease  the work by perceiving all these as now you have an idea about the pros.

Listed below are the disadvantages that you will must know about social media, without knowing you might think, “Can someone write my essay for me ?”

• Cyberbullying is one of the major issues while using social media platforms. Teenage children are the most common victims of the same, and it is so much harmful to them.
• Online frauds are so common these days, and due to this, personal information has become so fragile for hackers.
• Due to the excessive use of social media, health issues are increasing daily. These include mental health in a significant way.

There were the pointers that must have made you aware of both sides of the coin, that is, social media. Thus, through this, you must be un-doubtful about the same. So, it is time to ease your work even more by listing the topics you can use to draft your  social media essays .

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Trending Social Media Essay Topics: 15+ Ideas

In this section, our experts providing custom essay writing services have listed some trending social media topics that will ease your work. You can choose any from the list and draft your essay on it.

1. A comprehensive guide on how to build your brand on digital media.

2. Explain social media as an effective marketing tool in the present time.

3. Why is digital media a waste of time? Explain what the study says

4. Define the shift towards ephemeral content on social media.

5. What is the inevitable rise of digital media in marketing?

6. Explain the effects of social media on social pressure

7. What is the twitter's influence on real-time news reporting?

8. Discuss the social media impact on business and education

9. Impact of social media on personal relationships: Connection or isolation?

10. How does freedom of speech in social media essay work?

11. Explain the ethics of employers screening candidates through social media.

12. How banning social media such as Facebook from schools will result?

13. Discuss the role of social media in spurring globalization.

14. Explain social media as a way to capture the current reality

15. What are the underlying psychological effects of Instagram and body image?

16. How does social media promote radicalization?

These are some trending social media essay  topics that you can use to draft your content on. Moreover, if there are several other issues as well that you face while working on this essay, you can  pay for essay   to an expert in the field.

Struggling with Social Media Essay? We Can Help!

Writing a  social media essay  is indeed a tricky task to ace, but there is no such option as avoiding it. Thus, you have to go through a lot of challenges to draft an ideal one. But there is a solution that is seeking professional  essay writing help  from experts. Now you might think, where to find them, right? So, you have already found them here at the Assignment Desk. We have a complete team, including researchers, writers, proofreaders and content analysts, who will move mountains if needed to guide you on the right track.

Thus, with us, you do not have to struggle more about earning higher grades through your  social media essay,  as it is now our responsibility. You just have to plan an order and relax.

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BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line-up exposes football punditry’s big identity crisis

Social media has completely changed the way fans engage with the modern game, writes louis chilton . and it’s put traditional broadcasters in a sticky situation.

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T elevised football punditry often feels like wallpaper or the music of Kenny G: you can be stuck in a room with it for hours, and it’ll fail to make even the slightest impression. Quietly, though, it is every bit as important to the UK’s footballing culture as the lads actually out there hoofing a ball around on the pitch. Unless you’re a pure-bred lower-league idealogue whose conception of football begins and ends at the turnstiles of your local ground, everybody must sometimes rely on TV to curate their football experience – not just to watch it but to frame it and explain it.

Lately, however, it has started to feel as if broadcast TV’s football ecosystem is in the throes of an identity crisis . This, principally, is caused by football’s relationship with the internet, which has altered significantly how fans engage with and understand the sport. Yesterday, Uefa Euro 2024 began with a fixture between the host nation, Germany, and Scotland. The evening also launched an intensive month-long blitz of TV football coverage, with games divvied up between the BBC and ITV . On the Beeb’s side, we have Match of the Day stalwart and serial “BBC Highest Earner” Gary Lineker, alongside Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman and Alex Scott, and a punditry team that also includes Micah “burst onto the scene” Richards, Wayne Rooney, Alan Shearer, Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Ellen White and Joe Hart. ITV, meanwhile, is building its coverage around presenters Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods, as well as pundits such as Ian Wright, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Ange Postecoglou, and Man United old boys Gary Neville and Roy Keane.

To be clear, there’s nothing too egregious about any of these choices. ITV’s team in particular comprises a few of the modern game’s superior presenters and a good mix of distinct punditry styles. Wright, for instance, is jovial and authentic, Neville assertive and analytical, Keane curmudgeonly and blunt (pure box office). But Euro 2024 is a particularly significant tournament for England, who enter the competition as favourites. In terms of the squad at our disposal, it is the most promising opportunity to win major international silverware that our country has had in decades. If this England squad is (at least from the midfield upwards) the most exciting and talented young team in Europe, then we deserve a discourse to equal it, a level of analysis and insight that can truly bring out the beauty of the beautiful game.

In recent years, Sky Sports (and, to a lesser extent, BT Sports/TNT) has tweaked the formula of its Premier League punditry, attempting to inject more flavour and internet virality into programming through lively personality match-ups. Ex-pros such as Richards, Keane and Jamie Carragher have been at the forefront of this, with post-match discussions sometimes descending into entertaining quarrels as thinly veiled club allegiances inevitably peek through. The tactic works: clips of these arguments, or moments of ridicule, are widely and enthusiastically shared among football fans on social media. Judging by the Euro 2024 presenting line-ups, this year’s tournament broadcasters will probably be attempting a similar tack: punditry that’s inoffensive, informal (ITV probably a shade more so than the BBC), and accessible.

Traditional TV broadcasters will be aware of the threat that the internet poses to its football programming. On the one hand, this regards the actual watching of games: Premier League-sanctioned, promptly uploaded YouTube highlight videos are increasingly eating into the demand for Match of the Day , for instance. But the threat is also about style and sophistication. In recent years, social media has become a forum for football fans to really discuss the sport openly, with a level of both detail and candour that traditional TV, with its invisible web of legalities and professional loyalties, prohibits.

On social media, fans are able to dive into the specifics of the sport with a level of involved, complicated detail that TV doesn’t allow – often through analysts and well-informed fans who build their whole brand around a single club. Terms such as xG (expected goals), or, say, “box midfield”, were explained and discussed online long before they began seeping into mainstream TV coverage. But it’s not just the tactical aspect: it’s a matter of honesty. On social media, people are freer to be more frank – and more negative – about the players they’re discussing. This can be a bad thing, of course (I’m not condoning the kind of abuse that some players arbitrarily receive after a poor game), but not always. In a competitive sport, it’s only fair for fans to be able to discuss players’ flaws and weaknesses – as well as (sometimes quite serious and consequential) off-pitch controversies that TV programmes are often legally prohibited from mentioning.

Sport on TV is by nature always sanitised: there’s too much money in it for this not to be the case. (It’s not just post-game discussions that are whitewashed, of course – just look at pseudo-promotional football docuseries such as All or Nothing or Welcome to Wrexham for more examples of the same.) The TV coverage inevitably ends up seeming disingenuous, or at the very least, disconnected. Online, football discourse has metastasised into something that TV cannot really replicate.

What we’re left with is a pretty impossible line for TV broadcasters to walk: keeping their coverage broad and jargon-free enough to accommodate casual viewers with minimal football knowledge – while also providing enough detailed specialist insight to make the punditry revealing and worthwhile for football fans who are, thanks to social media, increasingly savvy about the machinations of the game. The way things are going, the great footballing revolution will not be televised; it’ll be staring up at you from your phone.

Euro 2024 fixtures can be watched on BBC and ITV

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