Persuasive Speech - Why We Should Use Social Media Less

Summary

The video script addresses the alarming rise in suicide rates among young females aged 10 to 19 from 2009 to 2017, attributing the increase to the negative effects of social media on mental health. It highlights the feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, and unhappiness exacerbated by social media use, particularly cyberbullying. The script suggests that Gen Z, being the most active on social media, is the loneliest generation in America. It concludes with a call to action to reduce social media usage to combat loneliness, increase happiness, and boost self-esteem, quoting Mother Teresa to emphasize the importance of real-life connections.

Takeaways

• 📈 Suicide rates among females aged 10 to 19 increased by 110% between 2009 and 2017, correlating with the rise of social media.
• 🌪 Teenagers are experiencing higher levels of pressure, anxiety, sadness, and dissatisfaction with their appearance than ever before.
• 🏥 The Addiction Center states that Generation Z is the loneliest generation in America, with high rates of isolation and loneliness.
• 🚫 The speaker, a social media support specialist, emphasizes the negative impact of social media on mental health, especially among teens.
• 📱 The CDC and 'The Social Dilemma' documentary highlight the steady growth of suicide rates since 2009, linked to the emergence of mobile social media.
• 🤔 The Gothenburg Research Institute found that females using Facebook are more likely to be unhappy and have lower self-esteem.
• 🔍 Gen Z, being the most active on social media, is facing an epidemic of loneliness and isolation, as reported by Cigna, a health insurance company.
• 😡 Cyberbullying is a significant issue, with 36.5% of people reporting they have been cyberbullied, and it can exacerbate the negative effects of social media.
• 🤔 Experts are divided on why social media use leads to lower self-esteem and happiness, but comparison and the portrayal of fake versions of ourselves are cited as factors.
• 📉 High social media use is linked to lower self-esteem and happiness, suggesting a negative impact on mental well-being.
• 🛑 The speaker suggests that reducing social media use can lead to increased happiness and self-esteem, and decrease exposure to cyberbullying.

Q & A

What was the reported increase in suicide rates among females aged 10 to 19 between 2009 and 2017?

There was a reported increase of 110% in suicide rates among females aged 10 to 19 during the years of 2009 to 2017.

Why are teens feeling more pressure and anxiety than ever before according to the speaker?

The speaker suggests that the rise in pressure and anxiety among teens is due to the pervasive influence of social media, which can exacerbate feelings of not fitting in and negatively impact self-esteem.

What does the speaker claim about Generation Z?

The speaker claims that Generation Z is the loneliest generation in America, as stated by the Addiction Center.

What is the correlation between social media use and suicide rates, as mentioned in the script?

The script suggests a correlation between the rise of mobile social media since 2009 and a steady increase in suicide rates, particularly among young people.

What was the finding of the Gothenburg Research Institute regarding Facebook usage and female self-esteem?

The Gothenburg Research Institute found that females who use Facebook are more likely to be less happy and have lower self-esteem than those who do not use Facebook.

How does the speaker describe the impact of social media on Gen Z's sense of loneliness?

The speaker describes that according to Cigna, a health insurance company, 50 percent of all surveyed individuals say they have feelings of isolation and loneliness on a regular basis, which is indicative of a loneliness epidemic.

What role does cyberbullying play in the negative effects of social media, as per the script?

Cyberbullying is identified as a key factor that can exacerbate the negative effects of social media, making those who are already experiencing its adverse effects more vulnerable to harm, and in some cases, leading to tragic outcomes like suicide.

What does the speaker suggest as a solution to the problems caused by social media?

The speaker suggests reducing the amount of time spent on social media as a solution. This could lead to increased happiness and self-esteem and a decrease in the exposure to cyberbullying.

What is the connection between social media use and self-esteem according to Psychology Today?

According to Psychology Today, high social media use is linked to lower self-esteem. This could be due to the tendency of individuals to compare themselves with others on social media, leading to negative feelings when they perceive others as more successful or happier.

Why might Gen Z feel lonelier than previous generations, as suggested in the script?

The script suggests that the increased use of social media by Gen Z, along with the presentation of fake or idealized versions of ourselves online, makes it difficult to form real connections with others. Additionally, the lack of face-to-face interaction may hinder the development of meaningful relationships.

What is the final advice given by the speaker to combat loneliness and improve mental health?

The speaker advises turning off phones, closing computers, and avoiding the urge to check notifications. Engaging in real-life conversations and interactions can help combat loneliness and improve mental health.

What is the significance of the quote by Mother Teresa mentioned in the closing remark?

The quote by Mother Teresa, 'The greatest poverty is loneliness,' is used to emphasize the importance of human connection and the detrimental effects of isolation. It serves as a call to action to seek genuine social interactions over digital ones.