It can connect us with friends and family, allow for creativity, and promote learning. Still, there are dangers parents should know.
The Risks of Social Media
Some dangers of social media are cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and mental health issues. It is important to be aware of the dangers to keep children safe.
1. Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying harms many children and teenagers. Victims are more likely to hurt themselves or have thoughts of suicide. Bullies are also more likely to have suicidal thoughts or actions. These harms can be decreased. It can help to teach kids about empathy and resilience. They should also be encouraged to report abuse.
2. Inappropriate Content
Another risk of social media is inappropriate content. This includes graphic images. Incorrect information is sometimes hard to notice. Also, sites might encourage teens to try dangerous online trends. These risks can be lowered with parental controls and open talks about social media.
3. Mental Health Impacts
Social media can help or hurt mental health. It can build social relationships. But using social media too much can make mental health problems worse. It can cause issues with body image. It can also increase feelings of nervousness, sadness, and loneliness. Parents can encourage healthy interactions on social media. For example, kids can talk online with their friends and family. Accounts that teach or motivate are often good for kids. Kids can also have limited screentime.
4. Online Predators
People trying to hurt kids might try to contact children on social media. Kids should be encouraged to report online interactions that make them feel unsafe.
Health Impacts of Excessive Screen Time
Too much screen time affects children’s physical and mental health. It is easy to spend a lot of time on social media. Too much use can cause:
- Eyesight Problems: Staring at a screen for a long time can cause eye strain. Symptoms include dry eyes, headaches, and blurry vision. Taking regular breaks can help lower these issues.
- Obesity: People are usually not active during screen time. Too much time sitting or lying down increases the risks of obesity. Try to encourage outside play. Limits on screen use helps to promote this.
- Sleep Disruption: Bright screens before bedtime disrupts sleep patterns. This can lessen the quality and time of rest. Poor sleep can lead to worsened moods and lower grades. Children and teens should have at least an hour of screen-free time before bed.
- Social Isolation: Too much screen time can take away from spending time with friends and family. This can worsen emotional development and social skills.
Tips for Promoting Social Media Safety
For Young Children (5–12 Years Old):
- Introduce age-appropriate sites. Examples include YouTube Kids or Messenger Kids.
- Use parental controls. Parents can monitor their children’s use and timing.
- Talk with kids about their internet use. Ask them to report anything that makes them uncomfortable.
For Teenagers (13–18 Years Old):
- Talk about the risks of sharing information. Posts online can last forever.
- Help set boundaries. These include social media time limits.
- Teach about signs of wrong information.
For All Age Groups:
- Create a family social media plan. Include rules on screen time, content restrictions, and safety.
- Set screen-free places and times. Examples include meals or one hour before bed.
- Encourage outdoor play, hobbies, and spending time with family.
For more information about how to keep your child safe online, call the Injury Free Coalition for Kids, a program of the Children’s Trust at 305-243-9080 or visit www.injuryfree.org.
References
American Psychological Association. (2023). Health advisory on social media use in adolescence. Read more
Bozzola, E., Spina, G., Agostiniani, R., et al. (2023). The Use of Social Media in Children and Adolescents.
John, A., Glendenning, A. C., Marchant, A., et al. (2018). Self-Harm, Suicidal Behaviours, and Cyberbullying in Children and Young People. Journal of Medical Internet Research.
Lahti, H., Kokkonen, M., Hietajärvi, L., et al. (2023). Social Media Threats and Health Among Adolescents.
Marciano, L., M. Ostroumova, P. J. Schulz, and A. L. Camerini. 2021. “Digital Media use and Adolescents’ Mental Health During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Frontiers in Public Health 9: 793868. Read more
Zsila, Á., & Reyes, M. E. S. (2023). Pros & Cons: Impacts of Social Media on Mental Health. BMC Psychology.
