Parenting Tips: Navigating Social Media With Teens

Social media can be a fantastic way for teens to connect with friends, explore interests, and express themselves. But it also comes with its own set of challenges. Research shows that social media can have an adverse affect on your teen’s well-being, so it’s more important than ever to learn how to navigate social media with care as they head back to school.

Social Media among Teens is Cause for Concern

Teens who use social media should be cautious when using these on-line platforms. CTV News Channel has reported on a study showing that too much screen time is potentially harmful for brain and social development. An interview discusses that teens who spend hours scrolling through social media are showing more signs of aggression, depression and anxiety.

Concern for the well-being of our teens is also seen in other parts of the world as well giving this global importance. Adam Holtz, director of Focus on the Family’s Plugged In column offers his insights:

“There’s a growing consensus among health-care experts that social media can lead to adverse mental health outcomes among teenagers, including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and even suicide. Some might think that sounds alarmist, but the evidence is piling up. Researchers, including Dr. Jean Twenge, a San Diego State University professor of psychology, connect the skyrocketing rates of psychological distress among adolescents to the overuse of social media and the comparison game it perpetuates. Constantly comparing their appearance and life experiences to the perfect filtered photos and enviable posts of others leads to self-esteem problems among teens who believe they don’t measure up. Related to that is the need for affirmation via “likes”. Without those coveted up-votes of approval, some teens experience feelings of depression. Then there’s the obvious fact that staying up late texting and interacting on-line can lead to sleep deprivation. Finally, kids who spend hours interacting on-line are, almost by definition, less likely to be developing relationships face to face and learning important social skills that come with that interaction”.

“Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 

(English Standard Version)

Share these tips with your children to help you navigate social media smartly and safely:

Think Before You Post:

Remember, once something is on-line, it can be hard to take it back. Before sharing a photo or comment, ask yourself if it’s something you’d be comfortable with everyone seeing.

Protect Your Privacy:

Adjust your privacy settings so that only people you know and trust can see your posts. Be mindful of sharing personal information like your address or phone number.

Be Aware of Cyberbullying:

If you encounter bullying or harassment on-line, don’t hesitate to block or report the offending users. Speak to a trusted adult about what’s going on.

Avoid Comparison Traps:

Social media can sometimes make you feel like everyone’s life is perfect. Remember, people often share highlights, not the full picture. Focus on your own journey and achievements.

Stay Balanced:

It’s easy to get caught up in the constant buzz of notifications. Make time for off-line activities and relationships, and ensure that social media doesn’t interfere with your real-life responsibilities and experiences.

Be Mindful of Your Mental Health:

If social media is causing you stress or anxiety, take breaks and do something you enjoy. Your mental well-being is more important than any on-line engagement.

By following these guidelines, you can make social media a positive and enriching part of your life. Stay smart, stay safe, and remember to enjoy the journey!

Stay Smart About Social Media

In conclusion, staying smart about social media with kids involves a balanced approach of open communication, education, and monitoring. By fostering an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their on-line experiences and setting clear guidelines, parents can help them navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. Encouraging critical thinking and leading by example are key to ensuring that social media remains a positive and enriching part of their lives. 

Source for Inspiration: Focus on The Family on UCB's Hope on Demand