Write for an Academic Discussion

A professor has posted a question about a topic and students have responded with their thoughts and ideas. Make a contribution to the discussion.
You will have 10 minutes to write.

Your professor is teaching a class on psychology.

In your response, you should do the following.

• • Express and support your opinion.
• • Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor’s question:

This week, we're examining factors that influence mental well-being in young adults. Social media platforms are a huge part of daily life for many, offering connection and a sense of community. On the other hand, constant comparison with others and exposure to curated, unrealistic lifestyles can lead to anxiety and lower self-esteem. In your opinion, does social media generally have a more positive or negative effect on mental health? Why?

Student response 1:

I think social media has a mostly negative effect. People often compare their real lives to the perfect-looking lives they see online, which can cause feelings of inadequacy. As a result, many users experience increased anxiety and loneliness, even though they seem more connected to others.

Student response 2:

While I see the downsides, I believe social media can be very positive. It allows people with niche interests to find communities and feel less isolated. For instance, someone with a rare hobby can connect with others globally. Therefore, its impact really depends on how you use it.