There is no doubt that we spend a large amount of time online and on social media. But how much time are we spending and how is this affecting us?
Studies from Ofcom's 2016 survey show that in the UK:
- 7 in 10 adults own a mobile phone
- TV sets are used by over 9 in 10 adults
- Adults spend an average of 21.6 hours online a week
- 7 in 10 adults use apps
Social media is taking over the 21st century. There are many reasons for this, the main one being that people want to remain connected wherever they are. Sharing pictures, tweeting, whatever it may be, people want to know what their friends are doing. Over the past few years social media has grown massively. Not only is it for people who just want to talk to their friends, but for advertising and news too. Most people hear about news through social media, rather than reading newspapers nowadays.
Even children share in this. Although most social media platforms have an age requirement of 13 or above, many young children also have social media. This can cause a risk since the internet is a dangerous place. Nothing is stopping children lying about their age to create accounts.
I asked my classmate why social media is important to her. “It keeps me busy when I’m bored”, she said, “I suppose it’s easier to talk to people online than in real life.” Not only this, but many crazes can spread through the world quickly, for example the 'ice bucket challenge'.
Along with the increased use in devices comes the need for more electricity. This means that more fossils fuels must be burnt to keep up with the energy consumption of the modern world, which will have a highly damaging impact on the environment.
To conclude, social media has become a massive part of our lives and has changed the way many of us see the world and for many of us, it seems that we can't remember how we ever lived without it!
Saniya Chughtai, Newstead Wood Grammar School for Girls
