Hello SciFi Multiverse Family!
It’s been a while I’ve been wrapped up with schoolwork, continuous assessments, and responsibilities. But today, as I logged in to catch up on our weekly prompts, I came across this powerful topic:
"The Effect of Social Media on Adolescents’ Mentality."
This struck a deep chord with me. As someone who has lived both the privileges and challenges of growing up in a digital age, I believe this is a conversation worth having.
First off, kudos to the Scifi Multiverse team for always serving us these mind-opening prompts
Let’s get into it...
My Story: Growing Up Without Social Media
I grew up in the heart of Anambra State, Nigeria. My mum, a strict disciplinarian with great foresight, didn’t allow me to use a phone throughout secondary school—even though I attended elite schools where most students had smartphones and laptops.
Back then, it hurt to be mocked as “mummy’s pet.” While others browsed the internet during prep time, I buried myself in the school library, using dictionaries and asking teachers endless questions.
The result?
While most of my peers—distracted by social media—scored below 250 in JAMB, I scored 280 which ushered me into my dream course ''VETERINARY MEDICINE " Social media, I realized, can become a blessing or a curse depending on how we use it.
Today’s Adolescents: What’s Really Happening?
Social media was built to connect, educate, entertain, and inspire. But what do we see today?
Adolescents—who are in their most formative years—are often left unguided, feeding on content that shapes their reality and identity. Remember: “The mind is like a computer garbage in, garbage out.
Let’s break this down...
7 Dangers of Social Media for Adolescents
- Loss of Productivity
Even in classrooms, students are on their phones. At home, they rush chores just to return to scrolling. This addiction stunts learning and development.
- Compromised Values
Young minds begin to mimic inappropriate online behaviors many of which contradict family and cultural values.
- Online Scams & Fraud
Some now learn how to scam others online. Rather than grow skills, they're influenced by greed and deception.
- Sexual Immorality
Homosexuality, lesbianism, oral/anal sex, and early sexual behaviors are normalized online, damaging minds that aren’t yet emotionally or mentally mature.
- Anxiety & Depression
Fake lifestyles cause comparison. Many young people feel less worthy because they don’t realize that most online lives are staged. Some even suffer HBP or suicidal thoughts from this.
- Indecent Dressing
Dressing now mirrors trends seen online without understanding purpose, modesty, or identity.
- Bad Company
Online groups and communities often serve as echo chambers for toxic behaviors. As Scripture says: Evil communication corrupts good manners.
But There’s Hope... The Bright Side of Social Media
Social media isn’t all bad. In fact, I’m a living testimony of how good it can be!
I’ve learned valuable life skills.
My Christian faith has grown.
My business has expanded.
Here are some advantages when used wisely:
- Creativity & Visibility
Got a talent? Post it! The world is watching. Many have launched careers through platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
- Access to Free Knowledge
There are tutorials and lessons for every skill imaginable writing, coding, music, fashion, forex, you name it.
- Global Networking
Social media helps connect with mentors, potential business partners, and global friends.
- Business Growth
Small businesses scale faster with online audiences. As they say: "Audience is money."
- Entertainment for Mental Relief
When consumed in moderation, fun videos and content can help you relax and recharge.
My Take on the Future
Let’s be real most adolescents today are addicted to the negative side of social media. The future may seem bleak for many, as they're mentally fed by the wrong things.
But here’s the hope......
Those few who use social media wisely for growth, purpose, and value will stand out and do wonders in the world.
They’ll shine...
Advice to Adolescents & Guardians
To Adolescents:
Set a schedule and stick to it.
Get an accountability partner.
Know your purpose—follow content that aligns with it.
Don’t feed your brain junk; feed it purpose.
When confused, ask your parents or mentors. Don’t rely on strangers online.
To Parents & Guardians:
Be approachable.
Be your child's friend and guide.
When they go wrong, correct with love not harshness.
Open up healthy communication. Teach them, guide them, be present.
Final Words
We are in a generation where social media is a powerful tool. The key is not in avoiding it but in using it wisely.
Let’s teach our children to build with it, not be broken by it.
Thanks for reading
Let’s raise a generation that uses social media to build, grow, and transform the world.
ALL PICTURES ARE ALL META AI GENERATED IMAGES
Feel free to drop your thoughts, share your experiences, or add your advice in the comments. Let’s grow together...