The use of social media has increased among teens. There’s many different statistics when you look at the internet as a whole, the options broaden and extend to anything such as texting and driving or how social media affects different age groups. According to a study done in 2018 by Common Sense Media, they found that 89% of teens have a smartphone and 70% are on social media multiple times a day. That percentage is growing throughout the years with the increase of social media use as technology improves.
Texting and driving is common among teens. 1 in 5 teens say check notifications while they drive while 44% say they “never” do. Statistics show that 1 out of every 4 car accidents are caused by texting and driving and that the use of a phone while driving causes nearly 1.6 million crashes each year. A good way to prevent the use of your cell phone while driving is to turn it off or put it on silent and away from you so it’s not a temptation to be distracted.
Teens with low social self esteem experience more of the negative effects of social media rather than the kids with higher social self esteem. According to Common Sense Media, teens today also don’t value face-to-face communication with friends as much as they used to. 54% of teens said that if their parents knew what they actually did on social media, they’d be worried. It’s safe to have your parents involved and aware with what you do.
Instagram and Snapchat are the two most popular social sites for Gen Z and Millenials. The Business Insider claims that Gen Z is the first generation to grow up with the internet as part of their childhood. The statistics will continue to change over time as technology changes and improves so it’s exciting to see what the future has in store for us.
Social Media Safety 