Influence of Social Media on Educational and Mental Wellbeing of Young Minds: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

This study underscores the serious impact social media has on young people's educational and mental well-being. It emphasises the possible dangers of excessive and unrestrained social media use and how it can pose a detrimental impact on people's mental health worldwide, especially among youth. Empirical evidence repeatedly indicates that social media platforms can elicit emotions of jealousy and social comparison, exacerbating emotional well-being-related problems. Furthermore, the pressure to preserve a polished online persona can increase stress and anxiety leading to a negative impact on their wellbeing and academic achievement. Achieving a balance between the advantages of social media and its possible disadvantages is crucial for educators and politicians navigating this digital terrain. The study finds that social media has a profound effect on young people's behaviour, attitudes, and even cognitive processes, which can affect their academic achievement and psychological health in general. To effectively mitigate the negative effects of social media on today's young, policies and interventions must take these dynamics into account.