Present an oral presentation of the topic: ‘should middle schoolers be allowed to have social media?’ Present a claim and support it with some evidence. State key ideas with this.

Question

Explain all of this in 3 paragraphs

Answer 1

Good morning everyone, today I will be discussing whether or not middle schoolers should be allowed to have social media. My claim is that middle schoolers should not be allowed to have social media due to the potential negative impact on their mental health and social development. Research shows that excessive social media use can lead to feelings of comparison, anxiety, and depression among young people.

Firstly, one key idea to consider is the fact that middle schoolers are still developing emotionally and socially. They may not have the necessary skills to navigate the complex world of social media, which can expose them to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and unrealistic standards of beauty and success. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 95% of teens have access to a smartphone, making it easier for them to access social media platforms at a younger age. This constant exposure can have a detrimental impact on their self-esteem and overall well-being.

Furthermore, another key idea to consider is the addictive nature of social media. Platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok are designed to keep users engaged and coming back for more. This can lead to excessive screen time, sleep disturbances, and decreased face-to-face interactions with peers and family members. A study published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence found that adolescents who spent more than 3 hours a day on social media were more likely to report high levels of internalizing behaviors, such as anxiety and depression. In conclusion, I believe that middle schoolers should not be allowed to have social media in order to protect their mental health and promote healthy social interactions in the real world. Thank you for listening.