Social networks are omnipresent in the lives of teenagers, influencing their behavior, self-esteem, and worldview. This article explores the duality of their perception of social networks, balancing admiration for their sources of inspiration and criticism regarding the negative impact they can have on mental health.
Social networks as a source of inspiration
For many teenagers, social networks are primarily a source of inspiration. Nearly four out of ten young people (36%) state that these platforms provide them with new ideas and encourage them to explore a variety of interests. Social networks thus serve as a springboard for imagining new aspirations and discovering often hidden talents.
Dreams of glory and fame
Teenagers are also attracted by the prospects of glory and fame offered by social networks. These platforms create the illusion that anyone can achieve celebrity status, fueling narcissistic dreams. By comparing themselves to famous personalities, young people seek to stand out from the ordinary “herd” and attain a form of social recognition.
The indifference of adults towards online behavior
Some teenagers express surprise at the general indifference regarding their online behavior. Despite their activity on platforms like Facebook, adult reactions often remain limited, generating a sense of frustration and disappointment among the youth.
The impact of social networks on self-esteem
One of the major consequences of social network use among teenagers lies in their influence on self-esteem. Young people are exposed to beauty and success standards that may seem unattainable, which can have a detrimental impact on their self-perception. Several online behaviors, such as seeking validation through “likes” and comments, can thus pose problems.
Connectivity and its corollary: addiction
With over 90% of teenagers having access to at least one social network and 84% owning a smartphone, these young people spend on average more than 15 hours a week online. This high connectivity often leads to risks of addiction, making it difficult to disconnect and sometimes generating profound anxiety when the connection is interrupted.
The positive and negative aspects of social networks
It is essential to recognize that social networks offer undeniable benefits in terms of socialization and access to information. However, dangers such as sleep disturbances, cyberbullying, and negative effects on mental health are also present. These platforms are thus perceived ambivalently by teenagers: they can be both a means of growth and a source of stress.
