On Using Social Media

Cherilyn Alder in Aliso Viejo, California, writes:

A friend told me that using social media is “a big waste of time.” She said, “It’s for people who like to brag and impress other people. That’s why so many teenagers use it.” What do you think of her comments?

Marilyn responds:

A great many people do not use social media, and for most of them–including your friend–I believe that it would be a big waste of time. But for those who do use social media, I think it’s a hugely valuable way for them to feel connected to the rest of the world in ways that didn’t seem possible only 15 years ago. Yes, they include braggarts, people who create facades for their lives, miscreants, and worse, but they also include lots of nice people who are ordinary and extraordinary. Teens may be susceptible to the harmful aspects of using (and overusing) social media, but for grownups, I see more positive than negative results.