When social media first became popular, it promised to bring people closer together. With a few taps, friends could talk instantly, share memories, and stay connected no matter how far they are. But for some teens, that constant connection has the opposite effect.
According to junior Gabriella Day, social media has changed how friendships work. “Social media makes me feel like I have fewer in-person conversations because I have the option to stay at home and talk,” Day said. Instead of hanging out in person, many conversations happen through Snapchat, Instagram or groupchats. While this can make communication easier, it can feel less meaningful to many students.
Social media can also create unnecessary pressure to always be available. If someone does not respond quickly, friends may assume they are being ignored. This can lead to avoidable arguments and hurt feelings. What used to be simple misunderstandings now turn into screenshots and rumors spread across the web.
Some believe that cell phones make one-on-one conversations awkward. “I feel like sometimes social media can make in-person conversations more awkward because we are not as used to it. We’re more used to texting and sending snaps on Snapchat,” Day said. Over time, friendships can feel shallow, even if people are constantly ‘talking’.
On the other hand, social media has some advantages that would be unattainable otherwise. “People are able to connect and communicate quicker and whenever they want to, and it doesn’t have to be planned as vigorously,” senior Jake Urban said. Social media and cell phones give people the ability to communicate and talk to their friends and family by touching a button instead of sending letters or hearing things from the people around them.
Social media can also create unique opportunities and new ways to reinforce friendships. “I feel like social media gives my friends and me more things to bond over because we are able to share memories, pictures and videos online with each other and that gives us things to talk about,” senior William Hutchinson said.
Overall, social media has its pros and cons. Mindful use of social media with a good balance of time management and moderation makes it possible to find the happy medium between talking online and in person.
