Prompt
Use the provided Module Three Activity Template PDF to complete this assignment. You will consider the research questions you wrote in the previous module and choose one to focus on for your project. Use this opportunity to edit your research question based on instructor feedback and what you have learned so far in the course. Revising your question may involve the following:
Clarifying language
Connecting it more directly to your news story
Making it feasible
Narrowing its focus
Make it measurable
Ensuring it is ethical
You will also reflect on how your personal beliefs, assumptions, and values may have impacted how you wrote and revised your research question. For example, maybe a close family member has chronic fatigue syndrome, and you assumed the medical community does not know what causes it. So you decided to focus your research question on what contributes to the disease.
Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:
Finalize your scientific research question related to main idea of your chosen news story
Explain how your beliefs, assumptions, and values may have impacted your research question
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Exploring the Potential Negative Effects
Introduction
In recent years, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, offering platforms for communication, information sharing, and entertainment. However, as the use of social media continues to grow, concerns about its impact on mental health have also emerged. This essay aims to explore the potential negative effects of social media on mental health and the factors that contribute to this phenomenon.
Thesis Statement
The extensive use of social media can have detrimental effects on mental health by contributing to increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness due to factors such as social comparison, cyberbullying, and addictive behaviors.
Factors Contributing to Negative Mental Health Effects
Social Comparison: Social media platforms often present an idealized version of people’s lives, leading to constant comparisons and feelings of inadequacy. Users may experience heightened anxiety and lower self-esteem when comparing their own lives to the seemingly perfect lives portrayed on social media.
Cyberbullying: The anonymity provided by social media can facilitate cyberbullying, which can greatly impact a person’s mental health. Victims of cyberbullying may experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to long-term psychological consequences.
Addictive Behaviors: Social media platforms are designed to keep users engaged for longer periods of time, often leading to addictive behaviors. Excessive use of social media can disrupt daily routines, impact sleep patterns, and exacerbate feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Social media feeds are filled with updates and activities from friends and acquaintances, which can trigger a fear of missing out on social events or experiences. This fear can contribute to anxiety and a constant need to stay connected, resulting in decreased well-being.
Personal Beliefs and Assumptions
My personal beliefs and assumptions have influenced the development of my research question. Having observed the impact of social media on individuals around me, I believe that there is a correlation between social media usage and negative mental health outcomes. Additionally, my assumption is that the continuous exposure to unrealistic standards and cyberbullying on social media platforms can significantly contribute to mental health issues.
Moreover, my values regarding the importance of mental well-being have guided me towards exploring this topic further. I believe it is essential to raise awareness about the potential negative effects of social media on mental health and provide individuals with strategies to mitigate these impacts.
Conclusion
As social media plays an increasingly significant role in our lives, it is crucial to understand its potential negative effects on mental health. This essay has highlighted factors such as social comparison, cyberbullying, addictive behaviors, and the fear of missing out as contributors to these negative outcomes. By recognizing these factors and promoting responsible social media use, we can strive to mitigate the detrimental effects and foster a healthier online environment.