:: 외국인 1:1 Free Talking ::

Should Teens Delete Social Media for Better Mental Health?0

What’s This About?
Social media connects teens like never before ? but at what cost? As mental health concerns rise, many question if constant scrolling and the pressures online are to blame. Should teens disconnect to protect their well-being, or is social media unfairly blamed? Let’s dive into the debate.

Constructive
Pro Peter
Teens should consider deleting social media to protect their mental health. Research consistently links frequent use of these platforms to increased anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among adolescents. Constant exposure to filtered images and idealized lives can warp self-image and lead to damaging comparisons. On top of that, cyberbullying is a widespread issue, often causing severe emotional harm and social isolation. Social media’s addictive design also disrupts sleep, reduces academic focus, and weakens face-to-face relationships. And while it does offer a sense of connection, much of it is shallow and performative. Stepping away from things that contribute to stress is a meaningful act of self-care. Without the constant noise of social media, teens can invest more energy in real-life relationships, hobbies, and experiences that genuinely support their well-being.

Con Bella
Deleting social media altogether isn’t the best solution for mental health. Social media offers unique opportunities for self-expression, community support, and activism, especially for teens who may feel misunderstood or excluded in their offline lives. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X give users creative outlets and connect them to mental health resources. Rather than shutting down accounts, teens should focus on developing digital literacy and healthier online habits. Learning to set boundaries and follow uplifting content can help build emotional resilience. Since social media is a significant part of modern life, managing it responsibly is far more practical than avoiding it entirely. Cutting it out may seem like a quick fix, but that ignores the value these platforms provide. The goal should be to maintain balance and thrive online and offline.

Rebuttal
Pro Peter
While social media has its upsides, the psychological risks it poses to teens often outweigh the benefits. Suggesting digital literacy as a fix overlooks the reality that even well-informed users struggle to manage their time and emotions online. These platforms use addictive algorithms, making self-regulation extremely difficult. And while it’s true that marginalized teens can find online support, those connections can’t fully replace the depth and stability of real-world relationships. Taking a break from social media, even momentarily, can offer teens space to reflect, recharge, and build healthier offline habits. It isn’t about rejecting technology altogether, but knowing when it’s doing more harm than good. Instead of relying on moderation, which many teens can’t consistently maintain, stepping away can help them regain control and reconnect with what truly matters.

Con Bella
Calling for teens to delete social media oversimplifies a much deeper issue. Mental health challenges stem from a wide range of factors ? academic stress, family conflict, identity struggles ? not just time spent online. Blaming social media alone shifts focus away from these root causes. Also, encouraging teens to disconnect may backfire by making them feel more isolated. It would be worse if they depended on online spaces for emotional support or self-expression. Not every teen comes from a supportive environment, so taking social media away from them may make their situations worse. Moreover, deleting apps wouldn’t do much for long-term emotional health. It’s like covering a mirror instead of working on self-image. Teens need support in using social media wisely ? through digital literacy, mindfulness, and balance, not a complete retreat from it.

Judge’s Comments
Both debaters presented clear, well-reasoned arguments that captured the issue’s complexity. While social media can harm mental health, it also offers support and connection. Ultimately, the key may lie in mindful use and balanced habits rather than total withdrawal.