Adolescent Behavior and Well-Being

Research the range of contemporary issues teenagers face today. In a 500-750-word paper, choose one issue (besides teen pregnancy) and discuss its effect on adolescent behavior and overall well-being.

Include the following in your submission:

Describe the contemporary issue and explain what external stressors are associated with this issue.

Outline assessment strategies to screen for this issue and external stressors during an assessment for an adolescent patient.

Describe what additional assessment questions you would need to ask and define the ethical parameters regarding what you can and cannot share with the parent or guardian.

Discuss support options for adolescents encountering external stressors. Include specific support options for the contemporary issue you presented.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Behavior and Well-Being

Social media has emerged as a significant force in the lives of adolescents today. It offers various platforms for communication, entertainment, and self-expression. However, while social media can provide numerous benefits, it also introduces several challenges that can negatively affect adolescent behavior and overall well-being. This paper discusses the impact of social media on adolescents, focusing on the external stressors associated with its use, assessment strategies for identifying these stressors, and support options for affected youth.

Contemporary Issue: Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok have become integral to adolescents’ daily lives. They serve as venues for social interaction, information sharing, and personal expression. However, the pervasive nature of social media also presents various external stressors, including cyberbullying, social comparison, and exposure to inappropriate content.

External Stressors

Cyberbullying is a prevalent issue linked to social media use. It can manifest in various forms, including harassment, threats, and public shaming. The anonymity afforded by social media often emboldens perpetrators, making it easier for them to target victims without fear of consequences. Moreover, social comparison is another external stressor, as adolescents often evaluate their self-worth based on the curated lives of their peers displayed online. This phenomenon can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, adolescents may encounter inappropriate content, including sexual imagery or violent material, which can further contribute to emotional distress.

Assessment Strategies

To effectively address the impact of social media on adolescents, healthcare providers should utilize comprehensive assessment strategies during patient evaluations. Screening tools can include standardized questionnaires that assess social media usage patterns, experiences with cyberbullying, and mental health symptoms.

During the assessment, additional questions should be posed, such as:

How much time do you spend on social media daily?
Have you experienced any negative interactions online?
How do you feel when you compare yourself to others on social media?

These questions can help uncover the adolescent’s relationship with social media and identify any potential stressors.

Ethical Parameters

In terms of ethical considerations, healthcare providers must navigate the balance between patient confidentiality and the need to involve parents or guardians. Adolescents have the right to confidentiality regarding sensitive issues, including mental health concerns related to social media. However, providers can share general information about the adolescent’s struggles without disclosing specific details.

It is crucial to obtain informed consent from the adolescent before discussing any sensitive topics with parents or guardians, as this fosters trust and encourages open communication.

Support Options

Supporting adolescents encountering external stressors related to social media requires a multi-faceted approach. Schools and community organizations can implement programs that educate youth about the responsible use of social media and the dangers of cyberbullying.

Counseling services can also play a vital role in providing emotional support and coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help adolescents reframe negative thoughts stemming from social comparison and develop healthier self-esteem. Additionally, parents can be encouraged to engage in open dialogues with their children about their online experiences, fostering a supportive environment where adolescents feel safe discussing their challenges.

Conclusion

Social media presents both opportunities and challenges for adolescents. While it serves as a platform for connection and self-expression, it also introduces significant external stressors that can negatively impact behavior and overall well-being. By employing effective assessment strategies and providing appropriate support options, healthcare providers can help adolescents navigate the complexities of social media use, promoting healthier relationships with technology and improved mental health outcomes.

References

American Psychological Association. (2019). The impact of social media on adolescents. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2019/social-media-adolescents

Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2018). The age of anxiety: How social media is causing the rise in anxiety and depression among adolescents. American Journal of Psychiatry, 175(9), 883-884. https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.ajp.2018.18050690

Nesi, J., & Prinstein, M. J. (2015). Using social media for peer interactions: The role of adolescents’ social media use in their emotional and behavioral adjustment. Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology, 44(5), 760-774. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4531038/

Adolescent Behavior and Well-Being