• UGI USER
  • Aug 18, 2023
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Q. How social media is playing a crucial role in transforming the perception of individuals. Discuss the impact of socialization, family and educational institutions in reducing the negative impacts of social media.

 

Intro – Introduce with Social media being emerged as a powerful force in shaping individual perceptions

Body – 1. Highlight Transformational Impact of Social Media on Perception.

            2. Write how will socialization, family and educational institutions mitigate negative impacts of social media.

Conclusion – While negative impacts are evident, socialization, family, and educational institutions can collaboratively mitigate these effects.

 

Ans:  “Social networks aren’t about Web sites. They’re about experiences.”  Mike DiLorenzo.

Social media, a potent communication platform, holds considerable sway over individuals in both urban and remote locales. Its influence pertains to an individual’s capacity to shape the thought processes of others within an online social community.

Social media has emerged as a powerful force in shaping individual perceptions, impacting various aspects of life. However, its influence is not without ethical challenges.

Transformational Impact of Social Media on Perception:

  • Global Exposure: Social media connects people globally, exposing them to diverse cultures and viewpoints.

Example: A person from a rural area learns about international news and customs through Twitter and YouTube.

  • Real-Time Influence: Social media provides instant updates on events, shaping how individuals understand current affairs

Example: Twitter users follow breaking news updates during crises, influencing their perception of unfolding situations.

  • Influencer Culture: Online influencers shape ideals and aspirations through curated lifestyles.

Example: Beauty influencers on Instagram impact how people perceive beauty standards and makeup trends.

  • Political Discourse: Social media campaigns sway public opinion during elections.

Example: Viral Facebook posts change how individuals view political candidates and their policies.

  • Educational Access: Online tutorials and courses reshape how people perceive skill acquisition and potential.

Example: YouTube coding tutorials alter perceptions of learning complex programming languages.

Negative Impacts of Social Media:

Erosion of Privacy:

  • Sharing personal information and data privacy concerns.
  • Surveillance capitalism and data breaches.

Cyber bullying and Mental Health:

  • Online harassment and its adverse effects on mental well-being.
  • Escalation of cyber bullying leading to self-harm and suicide.

Echo Chambers and Polarization:

  • Filter bubbles limit exposure to diverse viewpoints.
  • Escalation of ideological polarization and societal divisions.

Hate speech and Rumors

  • It is responsible for acts of violence and deaths in many of the cases
  • Example being two sadhus and their driver were lynched in Maharashtra this year.
Role in Mitigating Negative Impacts:
Socialization Family Educational Institution
·       Value Transmission: Infuses moral and ethical values, guiding online behaviour.

·       Empathy Development: Fosters compassion towards diverse perspectives, reducing online hostility.

·       Cultural Sensitivity: Encourages understanding and tolerance of differing cultural norms.

·       Peer Influence: Positive peer interactions reinforce ethical online conduct.

·       Responsible Sharing: Instils the importance of verifying information before sharing.

·       Mentorship and Role Models: Influential figures promote responsible digital citizenship.

 ·       Digital Literacy: Families impart skills to evaluate online content critically.

·       Screen Time Management: Balances online interaction with offline activities.

·       Privacy and Safety: Educates on safeguarding personal information and staying secure online.

·       Constructive Communication: Encourages healthy discussions and empathy online.

·       Positive Reinforcement: Rewards ethical online conduct and respectful interactions.

·       Media Balance: Encourages diverse offline activities to counter screen addiction.

 ·       Media Literacy Programs: Develops skills to dissect and create media content.

·       Ethical Online Behaviour: Teaches digital etiquette, promoting respectful interactions.

·       Cybersecurity Awareness: Enhances understanding of online risks and safety measures.

·       Cultivating Critical Minds: Nurtures the ability to question, analyse, and challenge online narratives.

·       Promoting Diversity: Encourages exposure to varied viewpoints, reducing echo chambers.

·       Cyber security Education: Teaches students to safeguard personal and shared data.

 

Conclusion

Social media’s transformational impact on individual perception underscores the need for ethical considerations. While negative impacts are evident, socialization, family, and educational institutions can collaboratively mitigate these effects. By fostering digital literacy, emotional resilience, and responsible online behaviour, society can harness the potential of social media while minimizing its ethical pitfalls.