Social media (positive) In order to contribute to your learning on selected topics in child development, we will have four formal discussion days. You will be notified in class which side of the topic you will be writing about (that is, for or against). Before the discussion, begin your paper with a paragraph or two about your initial feelings about the topic and what makes you feel that way. Then educate yourself about your side of the argument (which may not be the side you believe in!), using a source of information outside your textbook, such as a magazine or journal article, another book, or a website. Include in your paper a brief summary of your research finding.

Make sure you cite your source in your paper, with page number if you’re using a direct quote (ex.: Smith, Jones, & Babinski, 2009, p. 206) – use the references handout from class. Cite the full reference at the end of your paper. Be prepared to share a point that supports your side of the topic in class. During the discussion, participate!

We’re trying to educate each other about the pros and cons of these controversial issues. I would like to hear from everyone at least once. After the discussion, finish your paper with a paragraph or two about your feelings about the topic now, such as: Did your feelings about the topic change? Why or why not? What do you see as the most compelling argument or arguments that support your current opinion?

Paper For Above instruction

The influence of social media on child development is a multifaceted issue that evokes a range of opinions regarding its positive and negative impacts. Initially, my feelings about social media's role in child development were ambivalent; I recognized its potential to foster communication, creativity, and learning but also worried about issues like screen addiction, cyberbullying, and its impact on social skills. My initial stance leaned cautiously optimistic, believing that social media could be a valuable tool if used responsibly.

Educating myself on the positive aspects of social media in child development reveals a number of benefits supported by recent research. According to a study by Rideout and Robb (2018), social media platforms can enhance social connectivity and support peer relationships, especially for children in marginalized groups or those with social anxiety. These platforms offer opportunities for children to share experiences, collaborate on projects, and receive peer support beyond the confines of physical environments. Additionally, social media can serve as a source of educational content, fostering curiosity and learning outside traditional classroom settings. For example, educational channels on YouTube and interactive online platforms provide accessible learning resources, which can supplement formal education (Huang & Lee, 2020).

Furthermore, social media encourages self-expression and identity development, essential components of adolescent growth. According to the American Psychological Association (2020), when used appropriately, social media allows youth to explore different facets of their identities and connect with communities of interest that reflect their values and interests. This can promote confidence and a sense of belonging, both of which are crucial during formative years. Moreover, social media can facilitate the development of digital literacy skills, which are increasingly vital in today's tech-centric world (Buckingham, 2019).

However, these benefits must be balanced against potential drawbacks. Excessive screen time may lead to reduced physical activity and adverse health outcomes. Cyberbullying is another serious concern, capable of causing emotional distress and long-term psychological effects. Research by Kowalski et al. (2014) highlights the prevalence of cyberbullying among adolescents and its negative impact on mental health. Additionally, exposure to inappropriate content and social comparison can hinder self-esteem and mental well-being (Keles, McCrae, & Grealish, 2019).

In conclusion, social media provides valuable opportunities for learning, social connection, and self-expression that can positively influence child development if used knowingly and responsibly. Nevertheless, it poses risks that require careful management by parents, educators, and the children themselves. My perspective has evolved to recognize the importance of guiding children to harness social media's benefits while mitigating its dangers. The most compelling argument supporting my current outlook is that social media, like any tool, depends heavily on responsible usage and adult supervision to maximize benefits and minimize harms.

References

• American Psychological Association. (2020). Digital media and child development. APA Publishing.
• Buckingham, D. (2019). The digital literacy skills of youth: Opportunities and challenges. Journal of Youth Studies, 22(4), 453-469.
• Huang, Y., & Lee, T. (2020). The role of social media in informal learning. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 23(1), 112-124.
• Keles, B., McCrae, N., & Grealish, A. (2019). A systematic review: The influence of social media on depression, anxiety, and psychological distress in adolescents. International Journal of Adolescence and Youth, 24(1), 79-93.
• Kowalski, R. M., Giumetti, G. W., Schroeder, A. N., & Lattanner, M. R. (2014). Cyberbullying among adolescents: Implications for mental health. Journal of School Violence, 13(4), 385-400.
• Rideout, V. J., & Robb, M. B. (2018). Social media, social life: The impact of social media on children’s social development. Common Sense Media.