Parents are the gate keepers in determining the positive and negative effects of teen social media use. Keen observations will reveal teens withdrawing from their normal interest which can be a strong indicator of too much immersion into social media. Research remains divided on the number of hours that the average teenager spends on Social Medial every day; however, the estimate ranges from as low as 5 hours to upwards of 9 hours; but it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that tees are Tik Tok’d, Snap Chatted and Instagrammed out. This daily obsession of phone check ins has increased a sense of heightened awareness and has manifested higher levels of stress and depression among children, teens, and young adults for fear of “missing out.” While social media can be a way for friends to stay in touch, the correlation between an excessive amount of social media cannot be ignored.
Identifying negative vs positive effects of social media is easier when parents are aware of the social media platforms that their teens are using and assisting them in finding a harmony in positive on line socializing. Being aware of your child’s social media interactions and experiences, are the first steps in turning social media into a low risk experience. Nevertheless, if you have concerns that social media is causing a negative effect on your teens social emotional wellbeing here are some helpful hints.
Set Limitations
Establish boundaries of when cell phones, tablets and computers can be used. While some parents cringe at the thought, turning in phones before bedtime allows your teen to mentally shut down and resist any temptation to respond to texts or check favorite apps. A by product is a well-rested son or daughter.
Neutralize the fear of missing out
Keeping up with everyone else minute by minute, hourly and daily diminishes self-esteem because social media glorifies even the simplest of tasks. Encourage activities, hobbies and sports that make teens feel special and appreciate their unique abilities and self-worth. Having a sense of self is essential in decreasing anxious responses associated with social media.
Help Teens Tap into their Creativity
Instead of keeping up with others, suggest to your child that they can find their own inner creative spot. Encourage your child to start a hobby online such as a cooking channel. Using social media to foster unique abilities shifts the sense of focus to their own abilities and self-sense of accomplishment.
Use Parental Controls
Parental controls are not the favorite of most teens, but it is beneficial in helping parents help their child in reducing anxiety. Anxiety is triggered by the beep of a notification or incessant need to keep up, respond or react to posts. By turning down app settings, teens can get a much-needed break.
It’s the way of Life
It’s important to listen and throw away your nonjudgmental hat when it comes to teens engaging in Tik Tok videos or the latest dance routines. Ask your child about what they see and challenge them about the pros and cons of social media versus taking a break.
No matter how we feel as parents, social media is a way of life for most teens, but through mindful and thoughtful parenting, social media can be a source of inspiration or become a noose to social anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. How we respond as parents Can and Will make a Difference so don’t give up.