Media is a part of our routine, used by people of all ages on devices like laptops and mobile phones. It works seamlessly with the use of the internet. It includes all the ways we communicate, from phone calls to television news. Media can also be entertainment. Social media, in particular, has significantly impacted how teenagers communicate, bringing both positive and negative changes to our social interactions.
Media plays a vital role in our lives by providing a wealth of information on various topics and keeping us updated with the latest news headlines. It also serves as an educational tool, helping us learn foreign and computer languages through online platforms and apps. For instance, watching foreign films can significantly enhance our pronunciation and vocabulary, making language learning more engaging and effective. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as robots and artificial intelligence(AI), have developed chatbots, allow handling the complexity of tasks that are quite challenging for us. Media also serves as a source of entertainment, offering a wide range of comics, films, series, and games that help reduce boredom and provide relaxation. Furthermore, it connects us with our family members and friends residing across the globe, making communication easier and more accessible. Social media platforms, in particular, have revolutionised the way we interact. According to Pew Research Survey, nearly 40% of children aged 8 to 12, and 95% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 use social media apps such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat regularly. This highlights the persuasive influence of media in our daily life, shaping how we learn, communicate, and also entertain ourselves.
Many people are losing their sleep by reducing some their total sleep time in 24 hours to just one hour or even not sleeping at all. This lack of sleep is often caused by the constant notifications popping on their screens, which make it difficult to focus and concentrate because of the fear of missing out (FOMO) on important updates and deals. Additionally, many men and tomboys are becoming addicted to battlefield games like PUBG and BGMI. This addiction is so much that they even see dreams of being on the battlefield, which negatively affects their life. Moreover, the media often creates unrealistic expectations regarding our body image, making us feel, we aren't perfect, such as being fair-skinned, which can cause harm to our self-esteem and well-being.
According to a study carried out in the United States, teenagers who spend more than three hours a day on media are twice as likely to experience depression and anxiety. Introverted or ambiverted individuals or those who feel loneliness in real life often try to connect with strangers online, which can lead to the sharing of personal information that later becomes accessible on the internet. Using wireless gadgets like Siri, Google, or Alexa can also pose risks, as they store data such as passwords, user IDs and banking details, which can be compromised. Multiple companies scam users by stating that they are capable of solving the problem when the device has no issues. Additionally, excessive media use can cause both mental and physical harm, leading to issues like eating disorders, stress and low self-esteem. Too much screen time can also affect our moods and cause frustration, especially in children when they are asked to do tasks they don't prefer. Prolonged use of electronic devices can also result in red, itchy eyes and repetitive strain injury (RSI) on our little fingers.
While the media plays an essential role in our lives, it also brings forth significant challenges. Excessive media use can lead to sleep deprivation, reduced focus and anxiety. Privacy risks arise as personal data is shared online. Unrealistic body image expectations and mental issues are usual. Moreover, screen time affects mood and can cause eye discomfort. As we navigate this digital landscape, it is crucial to strike a balance, harnessing the benefits of media while safeguarding our well-being and privacy.
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