Strength in Numbers: Can unity stop the disintegration of mental health and social connection via addictive media?

Tarun Parthasarathy

Youth are facing a significant crisis: tasked with handling the missteps of the generation in charge, we also struggle with obtaining the right information.

In certain places, such as information deserts or urban locations, a single view can be very polarizing, and the opposing side can be completely shut out. This could manifest in the form of political views or even social media posts. Consequently, with all this one-sidedness, it creates an echo chamber where most ideas bounced off are the same, ultimately not benefiting society and decreasing the ability for compromise and cooperation.

The obstacle is that with social media in the modern world, eco-chambers can be exacerbated. With algorithms working to personalize data left and right, social media can trick teens into believing that what they see is actually scientifically proven or accurate. So, cliques and damaging norms arise. The Pew Research Center conducted a study about social media (mainly TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, Reddit, and Twitch) and found that 36% feel they spend too much time on it. What is even worse is that most don’t even realize the algorithm’s effect and think that they can’t get off of it. 

This is not a barrage on social media; it can be used in a positive way to leverage connections and facilitate the use of information. But this is much more useful on a smaller scale or using articles/the internet. 

To address this overuse and the resulting effect on mental health and academics, there must be regulations about what age kids can join - often, many bypass the legal age of 13. Furthermore, the CAYC can collaborate with various YCs on educational initiatives and how to balance this aspect of social life. Lastly, in an upcoming conference workshop exploring social media, the crux of solutions such as automatic time limits, increased face-to-face interaction, and eliminating social media use during school hours or on school devices will be vital in informing the public.

With more initiatives and social events, youth can come together to address what is arguably the most significant issue affecting teens in California. With social media being cost-free and extremely time-consuming, it must be addressed by what users actually want, to the benefit of the consumers. Sometimes, solutions that actually block apps for periods of time may work, such as Clearspace. This wouldn’t be like the whole social media ban in Nepal, a complete disaster, but instead a way to check one’s usage. Hours after hours can be turned away on it, but state solutions won’t work: to fix the numerous mental health struggles, peer pressure MUST be alleviated.

In 2022, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 587 into law, enforcing transparency and accountability on social media platforms. Looking at this bill might spark curiosity, but for many who have actually faced these problems, it doesn’t seem like enough. Social media, for them, has become a beast that is too large and widespread to defeat. Most importantly, this feeling is echoed across the throes of the world: initially, as a source of communication, there is no more “social” in media. In fact, almost all of the reels/TikToks/stories/shorts, or short-form videos, are from influencers who are actively paid to advertise for the companies. Now, it makes more sense that users would not have any “social” in their media: videos are curated using ultra-powerful algorithms to draw users in. Therefore, the social construct of using these sites will not be easily destroyed. Instead, it can be adapted to be used only to keep on top of new information. As “an estimated 84% of teens use social media regularly”, the peer pressure is immense to be on it. So, whether you are a child, teacher, or parent, no more harm must be perpetrated in this way. To create a better world, it is essential to spread kindness and always keep the big picture in mind.

In conclusion, social media has a significant impact on academics and social life, often exemplifying cliques and fostering negative behavior. Instead of stopping it, as many parents or schools want to do, there must be methodical ways to manage and utilize it for a better future. There has been good news, such as AB 2 or 587, but slowing down the disintegration of young minds and focus is only possible with strength in numbers. Yes, a cliché phrase of strength in numbers, but without unity, how will any problems be solved?

Image credit: United Nations Development Program