Effects Of Social Media On Social Skills

Social media has become one of the most important platforms to share and exchange views, news, opinions, and ideas for people in the twenty-first century. Without it, it would be tough to imagine simple day-to-day communication. Most people believe that using social media has decreased our social skills because of the declining interest of face-to-face communication of youths. At the same time, some people still applaud the achievements made in the field of easier and faster means of communication through the inventions of social media. Therefore, there has been an ongoing debate whether the use of social media (like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, etc.) have decreased or increased our social skills. Neither of the arguments appears to be incorrect or invalid. Both sides have their strong points to support their arguments. Hence, it is a challenging task to take a stand on any one of the issues. So is the growing use of social media decreasing our social skills?

The supporters of the argument that the increasing use of social media reduces our social skills come up with the point

The uses of social media and digital world have created an opportunity for young people to face with social norms, explore interests, develop technical skills, and work on new forms of self-expression (“Goff). Mizuko Ito, the lead author of the study, says, “Spending time online helps young people to pick up the social and technical skills they need to be competent citizens in the digital age.” Similarly, according to a co-author Lisa Tripp, an assistant professor at Florida State University, as cited in Goff, says that “Using the technology media like YouTube, iPods and podcasting create an avenue for extending one’s circle of friends, boosts self-directed learning and fosters independence.” Thus, the arguments made by opponents is highly supported with strong opinions and