Values and Social Media

The intersection of values and social media is obviously prevalent in today’s generation and age. They play a significant role in values formation while maintaining digital responsibility. The world has definitely changed its landscape as social media plays a crucial role in impacting values orientation across generations especially the Gen Zs.

The influence of social media on values is notably through the access to diverse perspectives. Social media platforms expose users to various cultures, ideas, and values, which can broaden understanding and tolerance. The world becomes a smaller place through the internet and its various media platforms. The access to different websites, links, sources of information, and social media apps enable people to grasp unlimited information. However, this will have a disadvantage as well. If people don’t filter the information, false become truth and vice versa – this is the danger of open access to media platforms.

In this time and era, normalization of behaviors is becoming more obvious. Social media can influence perceptions of what is acceptable behavior. Positive values (like kindness and inclusivity) can be promoted, but negative behaviors (like cyberbullying or misinformation) can also be normalized. Calling out people and their behavior is as fast as complimenting beautiful things posted in the internet. Cyberbullying affects mental health of individuals. Social media behaviors have gone too far that people think they have the power or right to destroy others. Toxicity replaces kindness! Amidst all the noise in the internet, netizens are still pushing for a safe, inclusive, and positive internet space.

Role models and influencers have a crucial role in reversing the effects of social media. Influencers and public figures can model positive behaviors and values, encouraging followers to engage in meaningful conversations and actions. Celebrities, politicians, advocates, and common people can create a digital space that promotes positive behavior. Social media contents that further the causes of creative entertainment, social responsibility, mental health awareness, financial literacy, travel and leisure, food and business, and public service will open doors for more productive conversations.

As social media continues to shape societal norms and interactions, integrating values education into digital literacy is crucial. By fostering a responsible and empathetic online culture, individuals can better navigate the complexities of social media while upholding important values.

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Roger Condrillon Toling

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