DIGITAL LIFE

More confident and less lonely. The effect of social networks on young people

The constant support of young people in social networks and messaging apps to communicate with or avoid situations of social discomfort is often criticized but, according to a recent study published by Common Sense Media, can have positive effects.
The study involved 1,141 young people between the ages of 13 and 17, who answered questions about their use of social networks. Among participants, 59% pointed out that using these platforms was unrelated to feeling depressed and 35% admitted that they preferred to communicate with friends through messaging apps.
Overall, the study found that social networks help young people to feel more confident, less alone and less depressed, a conclusion that contrasts with the idea that these platforms are caused by negative feelings and bad self image.



Miguel Dias