(1) Almost everyone engages with social media in some form. Whether it is updating a status, sharing photos of a family gathering, or scrolling through friends’ vacation highlights, it is inevitable that most individuals use online social platforms.
(2) People tend to view social media as synonymous with shallow interactions, digital obsession, or the carefully curated presentation of an idealised life. But researchers often define it as ‘‘an extension of human social connection’’, says a professor of digital anthropology. ‘‘It is something that fulfils the fundamental human need for belonging’’ as it is an integral part of modern communication, relationship maintenance and even identity formation.
(3) ‘‘It is not inherently harmful’’, adds a social psychologist. ‘‘It can be positive or neutral.’’ Some researchers argue that social media helped us adapt to an increasingly mobile world. Digital sociologists pioneered this perspective, comparing social media usage to the community gatherings our ancestors valued as a means of maintaining social bonds.
(4) People are usually resistant to thinking about social media as anything but problematic. It is true that there are some types of engagement that should be avoided, such as social media use that fosters unhealthy comparisons or contributes to a poor self-image. In such scenarios, no one benefits. Social media engagement can also be both active and passive. Active engagement refers to directly creating and sharing content, commenting on others’ posts or initiating online conversations. An active user contributes original material and drives discussions. Passive consumption, on the other hand, involves more observational behaviour like scrolling without interacting, watching without commenting or reading updates without acknowledging them, while still allowing content algorithms to shape one’s feed through these subtle interactions.
(5) It is interesting to note that social media usage also reveals something about the relationships people have with themselves and others. The type of content someone shares often reflects their values and self-perception, which are key aspects of personal identity.
(6) Research has found that mindful social media use can enhance connection, while other studies have found it can serve as a platform for self-expression and creativity. So, approach your feed thoughtfully, remembering that some benefit can come from it when used with the right intentions.