Social - Or Unsocial - Media
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Philippians 4:8 (ESV)
For many of us - "back then" - social media did not seem like such a bad idea for the kids. A way to stay connected with them, keep them connected with grandparents and the like, and a way for them to deepen their relationships with their friends. All tightly controlled under direct parental supervision.
Most of us had no idea just what a dumpster-fire-in-a-train-wreck social media would turn out to be. For many of us, it is too late to put that toothpaste back in the tube. But for some of you, there is still time.
You may have children young enough that they have not yet, or have only just, started beating that social media drum. While you may be leaning one way or the other based on your own social media experience, here are some tween/teen specific points to consider.
1. Social media was not designed for children.
2. You can not teach the maturity that social media requires.
3. Social media is an entertainment technology.
4. It is not necessary for healthy social development.
5. A tween's “more is better” mentality is a dangerous match for social media.
6. Social media is an addictive form of screen entertainment.
7. Social media replaces learning the hard social "work" necessary for success.
8. Social media can cause teens to lose connection with family.
9. Social media use represents lost potential for teens.
10. Do any of us wish we had started earlier?
With all that being said, do I need to be on social media? Do you?
Think about it.
Pastor Jason
P.S.
Here are a couple of additional resource links:
Original article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/mental-wealth/201703/why-social-media-is-not-smart-middle-school-kids
Impact on Teen Health: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/tween-and-teen-health/in-depth/teens-and-social-media-use/art-20474437