The Negative Effect of Social Media

https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/debanjalibose/christmas-school-expel-student-rainbow-cake

I am convinced that the way I grew up is completely different than the environment kids today grow up in. Although I do remember the rise of the internet, it did not directly impact me as a child. Children today however, are consumed by technology and and the internet. While many benefits come from this technology enhanced world, we must stop and ask if this is truly benefiting children? The shared article showcases the story of a young girl who will be forever impacted by one simple social media post.

Children Know Nothing Else

It’s important to consider when reading this girl’s story is that she likely knows nothing else when it comes to sharing treasured photos. She has been growing up in a life where everything you do is snapped, edited, shared, and reviewed on social media. All accomplished from the ease of a handheld device. Before we judge her and say, “she shouldn’t have posted anything” let’s remember that she grew up in a world where everyone has posted something on some sort of social platform at one point in time. It is just as normal as eating and breathing.

The Mothers Fault or The Child’s?

The blame is easy to point out in this situation, or is it? The article clearly states that the mother posted the photo of her daughter. Others might say the daughter was the one who wanted the rainbow cake, and that she was the one who posed for the picture knowing it would violate her private school’s policy. Some might even believe that they both share the blame. But perhaps the answer is none of the above. Should anyone be blamed? Wasn’t both the mother and the daughter simply expressing themselves? If social media didn’t exist and the picture was only shown to close friends and family would the daughter still be expelled? I think it is much more likely that the blame falls on social media itself. 

A Never Ending Spotlight.

My point to all of this is that growing up in the era of social media puts today’s children under a spotlight that is never switched off. There is no backstage or intermission. Everything they do or say has the potential of being displayed for a large audience. Even if children stray away from societal norms and choose to never post on social media that does not prevent their peers and loved ones from posting about them. This is just one of many negative impacts technology can have on children.