Social media: victimized for all the wrong reasons

Sabrina Kenoun

I am not addicted to social media. I am not constantly updating my status, tweeting out my feelings or posing for a selfie on Instagram. However, I am attached to my social media accounts in order to keep up with pop culture.

People that accuse others of being addicted to social media are under the impression that they use it to snoop on drama occurring in the lives of peers and to post constant selfies. That is a false stereotype of the everyday teenager; those who post genuinely feel content sharing, and that’s a good thing.

Being the awkward fangirl I am, I tend to use my Facebook to stalk boy bands and read book humor. On a good day, I indulge myself in a Harry Potter quiz on BuzzFeed, read the occasional ABC7 article, or view movie clips. There’s really no other use for Facebook in my eyes, except for  maybe the occasional chat with a family member.

I don’t find enjoyment in stalking people’s photos or their arguments with other users. Social media regularly attracts those who are interested in current events, and if wanting to be well–versed is considered an addiction, I guess I am an addict.

It’s totally fine to post about what you’re up to. It seems to me that people think those that post where they are and what they’re doing are more self–absorbed than others and that isn’t true.

Kids our age want to show the world that they’re out and about enjoying their lives. Facebook and Instagram accounts hold our memories not only from now, but from years past and it is not at all wrong to enjoy that type of social scene.

Private lives should be kept off of Newsfeeds

Ariana Santilli

Last time I checked, you cannot install good memories into an iPhone. Although social media has its advantages, teenagers are way too infatuated by their online status.

If someone is on a vacation with his or her family, why is it necessary to post several pictures on Instagram? One could have been enjoying the scenery or having an intimate talk with family during the time it took to post a picture.

Too much social media can also cause deterioration in self–esteem. Typically, Facebook or Instagram is filled with pictures of events someone is not a part of. Spending your Friday night looking at everyone else’s great time is time wasted.

People should never feel like they are not good enough because of what they see on social media because, typically, what they see is a fabricated version of the truth.

Many teenagers use extravagant media as a tool to make their lives seem more social and lively than they actually are.

Social media is great for connecting with friends or family you do not see often, and for that reason it can be good to check your feed once in a while.     Letting everyone in your life know you are brushing your teeth is not necessary. It is healthy to express your opinions as well as your likes and dislikes but updating every little detail is trivial and not necessary. It is important to focus on things that are a little more beneficial and helpful for your peers as well as yourself.