Can Social Media Be a Nice Place?
The sad truth is that social media, before it became what it is today, was likely supposed to be a kind and ‘social’ online safe space when it was first created. But like with anything involving the internet, it was never as simple as connecting with friends and like-minded people. The highlight reel became a means to compare… Fake news and a fake depiction of reality became the norm… And anonymity paved the way for trolls to bully without facing any real consequences. As the years passed by, and more platforms and features were announced, it seemed difficult to see the light beyond the negativity. But with every troll comment came a contrasting nice one. With every ‘I wish I was her,’ came a ‘But we’re so grateful you’re you.’ And somewhere along the line, it became clear that social media could still be a kind place to be…even if you had to look a little deeper to see it. Did you know? More than 25% of teens report social media making them feel less shy and 28% more outgoing. 81% of teens aged 13-17 say that social media makes them feel more connected to the people in their life. 93% of adults use Facebook to connect with family.How can social media be used for good? Social media may have a long way to go in an attempt to stop online trolling and harmful content being shared, but hope isn’t lost. There is still so much good to be found. There is still potential for it to be a kind place to be.
