People often ask, is social media our friend, or is it the enemy? The answer is, social media is our friend. There are so many useful social media platforms that teens all over the world use for positive reasons. Social media has a variety of benefits, including communication and self expression. It allows teens to know about other cultures and beliefs, share and know about what is going on in society. Social media can help teens develop friendships. Social media can impact people in so many ways, maybe negatively, but for the most part, it positively impacts people.

I personally think that everyone, especially teens today, are raised in a world that is based upon technology, so teens should use that as an advantage. Despite many people who think it is a problem (an addiction), the truth is, it’s the exact opposite. Social media can actually help boost teens’ self esteem, and give them helpful hacks that they can use in their everyday lives. Social media can help teens feel like they belong, where they might not fit in anywhere else. 

According to the Pew Research Center “Majorities of teens report experiencing each of the four positive experiences asked about: feeling more connected to what is going on in their friends’ lives (80%), like they have a place where they can show their creative side (71%), like they have people who can support them through tough times (67%), and that they are more accepted (58%).”

Although I believe social media positively impacts teens, there are also some negatives that come with the use of it. People may argue that it causes depression in users, and that it can quickly become an addiction, but in reality it can be safe space for all, regardless of age. I believe social media can become a problem, but only if you create the problem.