How social media affects women positively and negatively

How does social media affect you?

Social media can positively and negatively affect women. Everyone’s experience on social media is different due to the different platforms and followers. Social media is very beneficial because you can connect with like-minded people, spread awareness about a specific cause, and individuals can access helpful resources. On the other hand, it can be harmful to an individual because of cyberbullying. Also, social media can be addicting and perpetuate unrealistic standards, which can negatively impact followers. It is important to be cautious about what you post and comment because you have no idea how it may affect someone.

Social media can give women a platform to advocate for political and social change. It is a very easy way to connect with others who have like-minded goals to encourage change. For example, posting a video about an issue you want to change or reposting something to support a cause. Social media has changed the game when it comes to advocacy, helping individuals spread awareness and stand together. Women can create tight-knit communities on social media to support one another, ask questions, and discuss certain topics. For example, my mom is in a Facebook group with all of the other moms in our neighborhood. They use this Facebook group to ask each other questions, make friends, and update each other about things in the neighborhood. It is a very positive space, and I know my mom loves the safe space they have created in our neighborhood for one another! There are many things like this on social media that make it easy to connect with like-minded individuals. It is mindblowing that we can connect and follow individuals from all over the world.

Do you use your social media to advocate for specific causes?

Have you ever created a community of like-minded individuals through social media?

Sadly, women can face a lot of backlash and negativity from social media. When individuals stand up for what they believe in, it often comes with a lot of hate comments and cyberbullying. This can negatively impact someone’s mental health because these individuals are hiding behind a screen and saying hurtful things. This can discourage women from posting on social media because the hate is too overwhelming. Social media can also be a very toxic place for body image and societal standards. Social media is a highlight reel, and it is easy for individuals to compare themselves to one another. Everyone is constantly posting their best photos of them smiling and having fun, but that is not always the reality. For example, in Drake’s song “Emotionless,” he says, “I know a girl that saves pictures from places she’s flown, to post later and make it look like she’s still on the go.” Individuals also edit their photos with all of these apps, which represent them in a false way. Sadly, individuals see these posts and videos and believe that this is someone’s reality. That’s why it is important to never compare yourself to what you see online because it is most likely not that individual’s reality. It is important for everyone to be mindful of what they post on social media because you have no idea how it will impact someone.

Have you ever faced hate on social media?

Do you compare yourself to what you see on social media?

It is always beneficial to acknowledge the amazing ways social media can enhance our lives while being cautious of the negative impacts. Having a social media account is a privilege and should not be taken advantage of or used for hateful reasons. Thank you for reading!