Social media: What problems do they cause? A study conducted in 2017 by the American Psychological Association found that from 2005 to 2017 the percentage of adults using social media skyrocketed from 7 to 65%! In the same period, the use of social media increased at the ages of 18-29 from 12 to 90%! Social media are a big part of our lives and are the most common way of communication, especially among younger adults.The modern way of life, however, comes with its conveniences but also with its problems.
The problems
Stress
Apart from the stress created by the modern way of life, an additional factor that contributes to it is our mobile phones and electronic devices in general. This is because, in our day and age, we tend to constantly check for updates on social media, for emails and missed calls. In fact, according to surveys, 43% of Americans are in this category and 18% say their technology is making them stress.
Alienation
The category of people who constantly check their phones say that they feel alienated from their family even when they are in the same room. Also, more than 1/3 report that there is a high chance that they will not meet with family and friends because they are stuck in front of the screen!
Unhappiness
A study conducted by the univerisity of Indiana found that those who were less popular than their friends on social media were more unhappy. The research found that in general the levels of happiness in social media users depend on others, as they compare their lives with those of others.
Isolation
Adults between the ages of 19 and 32 who spend a lot of time on social media tend to experience more social isolation, according to scientists from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. In fact, social isolation causes mental health problems.
Depression
Another study conducted by the same univesity concluded that intense involvement with social media is associated with depression in young adults. In fact, those who checked their cell phones more often were twice as likely to have depression.
Physical health problems
In addition to the all of the above the use of modern technologies creates a huge problem in terms of physical health. A sedentary lifestyle associated with constant cell phone or computer use is associated with obesity, which in turn is connected to other serious health problems.
The solution
According to the scientific journal “Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking”, you do not need to immediately delete all your accounts on social media. All you have to do is change your behavior and take breaks. Do not forget that real life is more important than the virtual one! Giota Florou (source: www.medicalnewstoday.com) Recent Articles
