There was a strong divide between the expertise of journalists and the contributions of the public. We’ve come a long way from the letters page to a landscape where media content often includes, and is sometimes entirely based on, public contributions. This shift has led to media that not only includes social commentary but also generates social interactions, such as on YouTube. In some ways, all of the media we consume has become social.
Enhanced Safety Measures
Online safety expert John Carr highlights how future social media platforms will likely enhance safety measures, especially for younger users. The Online Safety Bill will compel social platforms to implement more robust protections for under-18s.
For example, platforms requiring users to be 13 or older will need to have age verification measures. This could resemble the existing processes on platforms like Yubo, which you can explore here.
From Socializing to Entertaining
Apps like TikTok have shown a growing interest in entertainment, indicating a potential shift in social media. While community-focused networks will continue to exist, there may be an increased emphasis on content that drives social interaction. Short-form videos that create discussion and encourage collaboration could become more prevalent.
E-commerce Integration
Social media platforms are increasingly offering creators ways to monetize content. Features like Facebook Marketplace and Instagram Shopping enable users to buy and sell directly within the platforms. As more young people turn to digital avenues to make money—by creating and selling virtual items, used clothes, content, and more—e-commerce could become an integral part of future social media.
Today, even teenagers and young adults can access the international Facebook Marketplace. All you need is to change location on Facebook Marketplace using a VPN. Advanced VPNs allow you to change location on Facebook as the user wishes. This expands the audience for selling goods and services.
Subscription Models and Future Trends in Social Media
Platforms like Patreon and YouTube use subscription models to offer creators alternative revenue streams while giving subscribers access to exclusive content. Instagram Subscriptions is one example currently being tested in some markets.
With X (formerly Twitter) introducing similar models, the future of social media could see more investment in exclusive perks. But any online financial transactions still carry potential risks that a VPN extension can reduce without requiring anything in return. There is both a free and an extended version. In either case, the VPN protects privacy, provides anonymity, and protects data.
Risks of Social Media and Potential Negative Impacts
The landscape of social media is constantly evolving, raising important questions about its impact on our children. Are the habits formed on these platforms beneficial or potentially harmful?
Most social media apps require users to be at least 13 years old. Yet, data from the U.S. Surgeon General reveals that nearly 40% of children aged 8 to 12 and a staggering 95% of teens aged 13 to 17 are active on social media. This widespread usage underscores the need to understand and address the implications.
The U.S. Surgeon General has issued an advisory highlighting the effects of social media on the mental health of children and teenagers. A particularly alarming statistic indicates that teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media double their risk of experiencing depression and anxiety.
Given these concerns, it’s crucial for parents to engage in open conversations with their children about social media. Discuss what social media is, establish clear rules, and emphasize the fact that online content often does not reflect real life accurately.
Conclusion on Future Trends in Social Media
For kids and young people, social media has become an effective way to stay connected with friends, share interesting content, and learn new things. However, the rise of cyberbullying and the harmful side effects of excessive screen time are notable concerns. While the future of social media remains unpredictable, one thing is clear: it will continue to play a significant role in our lives.
Research indicates that children experience both benefits and potential harms from social media. Many young people use these platforms to maintain friendships or relax after school. Therefore, setting boundaries should be tailored to each child’s individual needs.
Two ways social media might impact children’s mental health are through feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out) and negative effects on self-image.
Further reading
encourage kids to get more exercise
