The test-taker must read the question posted by the professor and the two student responses. Finally, they should write their own response which addresses the question and adds to the conversation.
Your professor is teaching a class. Write a post responding to the professor’s question. In your response, you should:
An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You have ten minutes to write.
Professor: Today, we’re discussing the impact of social media on mental health. Some people argue that social media platforms provide essential social connections and mental health support, while others believe that they contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. What’s your take? Do you think social media is beneficial or harmful to mental health?
Jessica: I believe that social media is harmful to mental health. The constant comparison with others’ seemingly perfect lives can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Additionally, cyberbullying and online harassment are prevalent issues that can severely affect individuals’ mental well-being. I think that while social media has its benefits, the negative impact it has on mental health outweighs these advantages.
Mike: I disagree with Jessica. I think social media can be beneficial for mental health if used correctly. It provides a platform for people to connect with others who have similar interests or who are going through similar experiences. This sense of community and support can be incredibly valuable. Moreover, there are many mental health resources and support groups available on social media platforms that can provide help to those in need.
This response expands and elaborates on what the other students said.
This is a nuanced topic, and I think both Jessica and Mike have valid points. I agree with Jessica that social media can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and mental distress, especially when individuals constantly compare themselves to others. However, I also see merit in Mike’s argument that social media can provide essential support and connections. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, social media was a vital tool for maintaining social interactions and accessing mental health resources. It’s important to educate users on how to use social media responsibly and to create supportive online environments. Platforms could implement more robust measures to combat cyberbullying and promote positive interactions.
This response mostly ignores the other students and gives my own ideas. This is also an acceptable approach to the question.
While social media can offer some benefits, I believe it is generally more harmful to mental health. The curated nature of social media content leads to unrealistic portrayals of life, fostering a culture of comparison and inadequacy. This is particularly damaging to young people, who are more impressionable and susceptible to these pressures. Additionally, the addictive nature of social media can result in excessive screen time, leading to reduced physical activity and poor sleep habits, both of which are detrimental to mental health. Therefore, I think it’s crucial for individuals to set boundaries for their social media use and for platforms to take greater responsibility in promoting mental well-being by ensuring their environments are safe and supportive.
