Listening to the news lately I have been struck by the strength of feeling and support for Brianna Ghey’s mother and her call for children to be banned from all social media apps. The debate is not necessarily a new one, but there is no doubt that from smartphones to social media, technology plays a significant role in how we, and our young people interact with the world…
As an Educator and a parent I’m really interested in how technology influences our young people’s sense of self and identity, both in the real world and their digital identity. With AI also creeping in on the story, the future is remarkably changeable for our youngest generation, and it is really important that we stay abreast of what’s going on in the digital sphere so we can support and safeguard them in the most productive way. So is banning access to ‘socials’ the answer?
Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok have become virtual playgrounds where young people curate and share snippets of their lives. From carefully crafted selfies to Instagram stories documenting every adventure, social media offers a platform for self-expression and connection for our young people. But it also undisputedly shapes their perceptions of themselves and others. When we honestly think about it – how often do we compare ourselves to the seemingly perfect lives portrayed by our peers on social media? The pressure to fit in, look a certain way, or gain approval through likes and comments can take a toll on our self-esteem. We start to question whether our own lives measure up to the highlights we see online. It’s like living in a digital hall of mirrors, constantly reflecting and evaluating our worth based on online validation. It is no different for our kids. Without the valuable life experience of adulthood, our young people are both naive and vulnerable to the power of this largely unregulated influence, and in some cases, it has dramatic and tragic outcomes.
So is it all doom and gloom? Today’s technology also provides opportunities for self-discovery and exploration. Online communities offer spaces for young people to connect with like-minded individuals, explore their interests, and find acceptance where they may not have previously had the opportunity. Whether it’s joining a niche subreddit, participating in online forums, being creative with AI or discovering new hobbies through YouTube tutorials, technology opens doors to endless possibilities; should we, and can we shut this down?
Let’s not forget about the power of representation. With access to diverse voices and perspectives online, young people can see themselves reflected in ways that were previously unimaginable. Whether it’s finding inspiration from online influencers who challenge societal norms or connecting with communities that celebrate their identities, technology has the potential to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.
So, when thinking about how tech shapes our young people, it’s not a question of banning access, I believe it’s essential to strike a balance. We as educators and parents have to find a way to both support our young people and lobby the social media platforms to be more proactive in embracing regulation to safeguard our young people from the most harmful of content. Technology can enrich our lives, but it’s also crucial to unplug and reconnect with the offline real-world. Encouraging each other to take time to engage in activities that nourish our souls, whether it’s spending time outdoors, pursuing creative passions, or simply enjoying face-to-face interactions with friends and family is now more important than ever.
So, what’s the bottom line? Technology is a double-edged sword when it comes to shaping identity. Whilst it offers opportunities for self-expression, connection, and empowerment, it also poses challenges in terms of self-esteem, comparison, and online validation. As we all navigate the digital landscape, we all need to remember to embrace authenticity, cultivate meaningful connections, and prioritise our mental health and well-being so that we can model the balance for the next generation. Our worth extends far beyond the pixels on a screen, and our kids need to grow up with this as a fundamental belief that informs everything they do.
