A new study suggests that using social media a lot can be linked to harmful behaviors in children and young people. Researchers from different universities looked at how social media affects kids aged 10 to 19. They found that using social media every day can increase the chances of drinking alcohol, using drugs, smoking, and gambling.
The study showed that young people who use social media every day are more likely to drink alcohol, use drugs, and smoke compared to those who use it less often. The researchers found that spending at least two hours a day on social media doubles the chances of drinking alcohol for people aged 16 and older.
The study also found that smoking and tobacco use are more common in countries with lower incomes. This means that social media can have different effects depending on where you live.
In addition to alcohol, drugs, and smoking, the researchers found that frequent social media use is also linked to other risky behaviors. These include engaging in sexual activities like sexting, having unsafe sex, and not using condoms consistently. It can also lead to anti-social behavior and gambling.
The researchers say that using social media a lot can be risky for young people. They suggest that more research is needed to understand why social media can lead to these harmful behaviors. They also say that parents, schools, and governments should be cautious and take steps to protect young people from the risks of social media. Everyone is still learning how to stay safe in the digital world, so it's important to be careful when using social media.
Why did researchers study the effects of social media on young people?
What are some harmful behaviors that can be linked to using social media every day?
What did the study find about the relationship between social media use and alcohol consumption?
What other risky behaviors were found to be linked to frequent social media use?
What do the researchers suggest should be done to protect young people from the risks of social media?
Section 2
Hi, my name is Aoife and I'm 8 years old. I live in a little town in Ireland called Killarney. I want to tell you about a typical day in my life.
When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I do is check my tablet. Social media is a big part of my life, even at my age. I like to see what my friends are up to and share what I'm doing too. Sometimes, I even play games online with my friends.
After breakfast, I go to school. My teacher tells us about the impact of social media on young people. She says it's important to use it responsibly and not spend too much time on it. I try my best to follow her advice.
During recess, I like to play games with my friends outside. We have so much fun running around and laughing together. It's nice to take a break from the screen and enjoy the fresh air.
When I come home, I do my homework and then I have some free time. I usually spend that time playing games on my tablet or watching funny videos on social media. It's a great way to relax after a long day.
Before bed, my mom always reminds me to put away my tablet and get a good night's sleep. She says too much screen time can affect my sleep and health. I understand why she says that, so I try my best to listen.
What is the first thing Aoife does in the morning?
What does Aoife's teacher say about social media?
What does Aoife do during recess?
What does Aoife do after finishing her homework?
Why does Aoife's mom remind her to put away her tablet before bed?
Section 3
Good evening, everyone! I'm here to bring you the latest news on how social media is impacting young people. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have become incredibly popular among young people, but there are some concerns about how it affects them.
Experts say that spending too much time on social media can lead to feelings of loneliness and low self-esteem. It can also expose young people to cyberbullying, where they are bullied online. That's why it's important for parents and teachers to monitor their children's social media usage and teach them how to use it responsibly.
But it's not all bad news! Social media can also be a great way for young people to connect with friends, discover new interests, and even learn new things. Many young people use social media to share their creativity and showcase their talents.
Remember, it's important to find a balance between spending time online and engaging in other activities like playing sports, reading books, or spending time with family and friends. With the right guidance, young people can make the most of social media while staying safe and healthy.
Unscramble the following anagram to find a social media platform: MOOBKEOK
Rearrange the letters to form a word that means feeling sad and alone: NSLIEOSN
Can you unscramble this anagram to find a word that means being mean to someone online: BRYBENULGLI
Rearrange the letters to form a word that means having a good opinion of oneself: FSTEEME
Unscramble the following anagram to find a social media platform famous for short videos: KOKTI
Section 4
In Ireland, a true event involving the impact of social media on young people took place in 2016. It involved a teenage girl who experienced cyberbullying on a popular social media platform. The girl, who had been an active user of the platform, became the target of relentless online harassment by her peers.
The incident gained widespread attention when the girl's parents contacted the school authorities, who then took immediate action to address the issue. The school organized workshops and discussions on digital citizenship, focusing on responsible online behavior and the consequences of cyberbullying.
As a result of this event, the school community became more aware of the potential dangers of social media and the importance of creating a safe and supportive online environment for young people. The incident also prompted discussions among parents, educators, and policymakers about the need for stricter regulations and better education on digital safety.
What was the true event that occurred in Ireland regarding social media and young people?
When did this event take place?
What actions were taken by the school authorities in response to the incident?
How did this event impact the school community?
What discussions were prompted by this incident among parents, educators, and policymakers?
