Social media has increased social interaction, but in the worst possible way. The result of mass communication online instead leaves people feeling isolated and depressed in person. It is important to put down the phone every once in a while and exist with those around you. 

While technology has made communication faster and more convenient, allowing people to connect with others on a global scale through various platforms, it also made people become dependent on technology which has led to an increase in screen time. Reducing the amount of person-to-person interactions along with increasing social isolation leading to feelings of loneliness and depression. 

“With technology, we sometimes forget to go out and actually interact with people.” said Fresno City College student Louise Ramos. 

People have developed addictive behavior towards technology, spending excessive amounts of time on their devices and neglecting their other important aspects of life such as work, school, and family.

According to an article titled  Negative effects of Technology: What to know, spending too much time on electronic devices can lead to eye strain, headaches, and many other physical problems. People may also develop sleeping problems, depression, and anxiety. These can have devastating effects on mental and emotional well being. 

There are many online platforms such as Youtube, Twitter, Reddit, and Discord where there are online communities dedicated to numerous interests, hobbies, and topics where people can share similar interests and make new friends with people across the world. However, these online communities can also have negative effects, such as promoting echo chambers or enabling cyberbullying and harassment.

Online dating has also gained popularity with new dating apps like Tinder and Bumble. Individuals can now connect with others and potentially form a romantic relationship. Yet, this can also contribute to those who are more focused on finding a quick match for instant gratification rather than building a meaningful relationship. Additionally, the anonymity of dating apps makes it easier for people to act disrespectful without fear of any consequences. 

It is important to understand the power of social media. Although it has the power to connect everyone together on the internet quickly and conveniently, some people end up taking advantage of these benefits through disrespectful and harmful behavior. Besides video conferencing, messages often lack emotional cues and nonverbal communications. Leading to a lack of empathy and understanding. 

Online interactions can also lead to cyberstalking. Where stalkers can use the internet to track down and harass their victims online. This also raises privacy concerns, where personal information can be shared, stolen, or leaked.

Spread of misinformation is common online. Ease of sharing information online makes it easy for anyone to put false information and fake news on the internet. People can easily believe in these fake stories, especially young people who get their information from social media.