This informal CPD article, ‘Young People and Digital Media’, was provided by Fearless Youth Association, a Black-led youth charity supporting young people, predominantly from BAME communities, through creative training programmes, projects and activities.
Digital media has become an integral part of modern youth culture. In 2024, over 90% of teens reported using social media daily, with platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube shaping how young people engage with the world 1. These platforms influence how young people learn, communicate, build connections and form their identities. Given this, it is essential to understand the impact of digital media on young people and explore strategies to ensure its positive and responsible use. Equipped with this knowledge, we can empower and inspire young people to navigate the digital landscape safely and create meaningful, safe online spaces where they can thrive.
Trends in digital media
The role of digital media continued to evolve in recent years and has become a core part of daily life for young people.
These platforms offer a variety of benefits but can also pose challenges which need to be carefully addressed. The nature and quality of the digital experiences young people have can greatly influence their mental and emotional well-being. Professionals working with young people must understand both the positive and negative aspects of digital media, to guide youth effectively.
Positive aspects of digital media
Digital media offers a range of benefits that can help young people to develop academically, socially and emotionally:
- Social connectivity: Digital platforms provide an opportunity for young people to stay connected with friends and family and creates a space where marginalised groups can find community and support, fostering inclusivity and shared experiences.
- Access to knowledge: The internet has become an essential tool for learning, by providing access to educational videos, online courses, and digital resources. For example, YouTube allows young people to explore a vast range of topics in engaging ways.
- Creativity and self-expression: Social media platforms enable young people to share their interests and express their identities. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram encourage participation in cultural trends, helping young people to connect with others who share similar interests and passions.
- Advocacy and awareness: Digital media allows young people to engage with social, political and environmental issues, staying informed about global events and participating in advocacy. Whether it’s social causes or mental health awareness campaigns, digital platforms provide youth with a space to voice their opinions and make a difference.
Potential risks and challenges
While the positive aspects of digital media are significant, there are also risks that need to be carefully considered
- Problematic use and addiction: Excessive screen time can disrupt sleep patterns, reduce physical activity and can lead to unhealthy habits. Self-regulation is therefore an important factor in maintaining digital well-being.
- Social comparison and FOMO: Social media platforms often feature idealised images of others’ lives, leading to social comparison. This can create feelings of inadequacy and insecurity and can result in FOMO (Fear of missing out), leaving young people dissatisfied with their own experiences, contributing to anxiety and depression.
- Mental Health Impacts: Excessive and incorrect use of social media has been linked to increased anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Exposure to harmful content or cyberbullying can exacerbate these mental health challenges.
- Cyberbullying: The anonymity of digital platforms has made it easier for individuals to engage in harmful behaviours. For young people, this can increase the risk of developing depression and other mental health issues. It is essential to equip young people with the tools and confidence to deal with online harassment effectively.
- Digital exclusion: The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the impact of digital exclusion, many marginalised young people were unable to access online education due to a lack of devices or internet access, leaving them at a significant disadvantage.
Building digital literacy and resilience
Digital literacy is vital for young people to navigate the online world responsibly. Young people who can self-regulate their internet and social media use are more likely to engage positively with online content, seek out knowledge, and avoid harmful situations. Encouraging digital literacy enables them to better cope with challenges such as cyber bullying or exposure to inappropriate content.
Strategies for building digital resilience
- Critical thinking: Feeling empowered to critically engage with digital content, question the reliability of information, verify sources and recognise misinformation
- Open communication: Maintaining open communication channels allows young people to share their online experiences and discuss issues they may be facing
- Setting boundaries: Clear guidelines regarding screen time, usage and online behaviour can help young people to balance their digital and offline activities and empower them to make mindful choices about their media consumption
Tips for using digital media wisely
- Protect your privacy by customising your privacy settings
- Be intentional about your time spent on social media and ensure it is used for positive engagement
- Follow people who inspire and positively influence you
- Avoid comparing your life to what you see online
- Be cautious about what you share and read online to safeguard your mental wellbeing
- Use it to build meaningful connections
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Fearless Youth Association, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
References:
1. https://www.sentiment.io/how-many-teens-use-social-media/
