“Social Media And The Future Of Childhood”

Index

IntroductionSocial mediaImpact of social mediaStatisticsHealth issuesPotential Harmful EffectsLifestyle modificationRecommendationConclusion

Introduction Media technologies (TV, video, games, internet, music, mobile

phones) have brought about a substantial change in the experience of childhood in our society.

These changes leave many parents unprepared for the challenge on how to regulate their child’s time with such technologies.

It has become increasingly important to monitor the impact of social media on the future of childhood.

In the next 20 years it will become impossible to break the attachment between the teen and screen.

Social MediaSocial Media are the platforms that enable the interactive web by engaging users to participate in, comment on and create content as means of communicating with their social graph, other users and the public.

IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Because of their limited capacity for self-regulation and susceptibility to peer pressure, children and adolescents are at some risk as they navigate and experiment with social media.

STATISTICS

Fifty-four percent of teens send text messages, and one third of teens send more than 250 text messages per day.

Teenagers text an average of 6,400 times a month.

Many use instant messaging while doing homework and listening to music on an mp3 player.

By middle school children spend more time with media than with their parents or teachers or other activities.

STATISTICS

HEALTH ISSUES

Increased exposure to media may result in: Psychological disorders: Stress, depression, and

anxiety . Eating disorders: Bulimia and anorexia. Physical health and development disorders: Visual,

neurological and physical changes e.g. sleep disorders, awkward postures.

HEALTH ISSUES

POTENTIAL HARMFUL EFFECTS

Social Media is influencing people to stay in and stay online

versus going out and being social and doing anything physical.

More aggressive behavior

More aggressive thoughts

More angry feelings

Less empathy

Fewer helping behaviors

Increases in fear

Recommendation

Parents should assess their child's activities on social networking sites, and discuss removing inappropriate content or connections to people who appear problematic.

Parents also need to pay attention to the online trends and the latest technologies, websites and applications children are using.

THE End!