Use of social media in the past years has increased tremendously. The rate of growth since 2006 has been very high (Ahmad, 2016). The most frequently used social media applications are Twitter and Facebook. Technological advancements have enhanced the high growth rate of social media. People have got a chance to realize the benefits of social media, whether business-wise or just socializing. However, social media has some dangers which some of the users have encountered. The benefits, however, outweigh the risks.
Several benefits of social media exist. First, information and updates from all over the world are shared using social media. Sometimes, print media and television may not capture all data. Social media provides an avenue for getting information and facts through research. Second, social media offers a platform for education. For example, one can follow a particular person on social media to get knowledge from them regarding specific topics or fields. Lastly, social media enhances connectivity whereby people from different continents can connect (Friedman 2014). For example, one can talk with friends and family members living overseas. These benefits help a lot of people in the world.
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Social media has some dangers or disadvantages too. First, social media can cause addiction. Teenagers have been affected most by addiction because of being idle. Most teenagers spend a lot of time in social media and cannot participate in any productive activities in society. Second, social media has provided a platform for cyberbullying. Children have fallen victims of cyberbullying. People create fake accounts and use them for cyberbullying (Ahmad 2016). These people issue threats and rumors to the rest of the world using fake accounts, causing restlessness among affected people. These dangers have been so prevalent due to technological advancements.
In conclusion, social media has helped change a lot of things in our lives, especially communication. It is, therefore, essential that we understand the dangers and benefits of social media to guard our reputation online. Some advantages of social media entail: providing updates and information, education, and connectivity. Some disadvantages of social media include addiction and cyberbullying. However, the benefits of social media are more than disadvantages; hence, social media is an essential tool for everyone.
References
Ahmad, B. (2016). Ten advantages and disadvantages of social media for society. Retrieved from www.techmaish.com/advantages-and-disdavantages-of-social-media-for-society/
Friedman, L. (2014). Five benefits of using social media. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2014042162738-44670464-5-benefits-of-using-social-media