When teens go online they stay connected with each other, even when a friend moves away. Not only can they talk to friends, but they also can stay in contact with family members and relatives. Social media allows people to post photos or videos that help show how and what they are doing. Another role social media can play in people’s lives is being a confidence booster. When people post pictures of themselves, they can receive nice comments on the photos that make them feel good about themselves. CNN News reported a story by Kelly Wallace (2014) about a girl who posts selfies and how all the comments make her feel confident about herself. Even her mom, Eileen Masio, stated “When I look at my daughter 's Instagram it is just constant positive comments making her feel more confident.” Also throughout the report by Kelly Wallace, she reported that, “28% felt more outgoing because of social media, 5% felt less outgoing, 29% felt less shy, and 3% felt more introverted.” Social media can also help strengthen bonds between friends because of their common interests. Kelly Wallace reported that, “52% of teenagers said social media made their friendships better, while 4% said it made them worse.” The positive impact of social media can really help make people feel better about themselves, and it can allow friends or relatives to stay in …show more content…
The biggest worry about social media is cyberbullying. “Cyberbullying is when a child, preteen or teen is tormented, threatened, harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted by another child, preteen or teen using the Internet, interactive and digital technologies or mobile phones” (Wired Safety, n.d.). Another negative impact of social media is a term known as “facebook depression.” APP Gateway (2011) describes facebook depression as a type of depression when teens or adults need to be socially accepted by your peers and those around you. Another thing that occurs with teens using social media all the time is they can become socially awkward and shy. Since it is easier to talk to people behind a keyboard, it can be difficult for teens to talk to others face to face. The negative impact of social media only occurs because people choose to bully others, or teens need to feel accepted by