An Analysis of the Impact of Social Media
In a scientific analysis of social media, new findings suggest a fear of technology is at the root of the idea that social media can destroy a generation of users.
In 2017, the UK’s Dr. Amy Orben, College Lecturer in Experimental Psychology and the University of Oxford presented a negative conceptual theory on the effects of social media.
However, under further examination and new research from Norwich, England’s University of East Anglia’s Centre for Research on the Child and Family, published in 2018 by the British Journal of Social Work, placed a more positive light on this issue.
The Definition of Social Media
Social media, by definition, is comprised of computer-mediated technologies. These technologies allow virtual communities and online networks to create and share information, mutual interests and ideas. The use of social media is not limited to a single generation as is evidenced by its use by nearly every governmental, entertainment and business niche over several generations.
Angst over Social Media Technology is Misplaced
The central issue causing angst over social media technology is that social media may encourage a general realm of social unrest and terrorism. The reality is that social media has come to play a large role in society in individuals’ lives and relationships, not to mention, the ability to warn of danger quickly and virally.
The Psychology in Social Media
As with any medium that becomes overwhelming in some individuals, psychologically the real angst is lack of self-discipline. In essence, rational minds understand the concept of limits. Irrational minds often do not. The other part of the self-discipline equation is the ability to clearly identify and be cognitively capable of knowing right from wrong.
For example, a computer cannot function without human intervention. Computer programs require and are dependent upon human programming. They cannot program themselves even with the most sophisticated computer technology. So too is the science of social media relegated to the need for dependency on human input and programming.
Social Media vs. Mind Control and Brain Washing
This alludes to the idea social media has independent power to affect the human mind in a type of mind control. Psychologists know mind control and brainwashing occur only with a lack of mental self-discipline and are limited.
Why the Angst is Misplaced
Every human being has an innate sense of free will from the moment of birth. How that free will is implemented depends on the childhood environment and natural mental balance.
Even in the most rigid and inflexible childhood environments, attempts to control a child’s free will almost always and inevitably results in a mild form of mental unbalance. This is observed frequently in teen and young adult anger and resistance to authority.
Thus, social media cannot destroy well-balanced minds that possess a healthy sense of self-discipline and understanding of right and wrong. This is due to the natural sense of free will. A generation of young people may choose to follow fads and trends of their peers while using social media.
As they grow into older adults, the trappings of their teenage trends and fads no longer fit into their lifestyles. If anything, their social media exchanges are more likely to be valuable to their own generation as well as those of younger and much older generations.
Social Media – The Ultimate Communication
One of the advantages of social media is that it opens up a world of opinions on a single topic. Scientific ideas can be discussed expeditiously and over a broader range of opinions.
Social media is the ultimate communication vehicle that educates, disseminates and creates a world of opinions that are personal, expert and professional. Social media provides the opportunity for generations to observe peers from every country of the world where social media is free and open for use.