Page 30 - Cyber Safety C-7

THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON SELF-IMAGE AND SELF-ESTEEM

Social media has become a major part of daily life for many people. Whether it’s Instagram,

Facebook, X or one of the many other platforms, users can share photos, updates and
experiences with friends, family and even strangers. While social media can connect people
and help them express themselves, it can also have a significant impact on their self-image and
self-esteem.

Some positive and negative impacts of social media are:

Positive Negative

Self-expression: Sharing posts and photos Unrealistic life: Social media often highlights
allows individuals to express themselves, only perfect moments, leading others to feel

helping to build confidence in their identity. inferior or less accomplished.

Creative boost: Posting and viewing Constant comparison: Comparing oneself to
creative content can inspire new ideas and others online can lower self-confidence and
enhance self-belief. create feelings of inadequacy.

Community support: Connecting with Attention seeking: Receiving few likes or
like-minded people provides a sense of comments can make individuals feel unnoticed
belonging and acceptance, boosting pride. or unimportant.

Encouraging feedback: Receiving likes Online bullying: Negative comments and
and positive comments from others can cyberbullying can lead to emotional pain,
increase confidence and motivation. sadness and feelings of rejection.

Inspiration: Social media can encourage Social exclusion: Being left out of social media
individuals to try new things and feel proud groups can lead to feelings of isolation and
of their unique qualities. hurt self-esteem.

28 Computer Science - VII