Social media’s influence on self-esteem is a highly relevant topic in today’s digital age. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions over the past few years, and its frequency is likely to increase given its growing importance in society. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see questions related to social media’s impact on mental health, self-perception, and personal relationships in future IELTS exams.
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that social media has a negative impact on people’s self-esteem and body image, while others think it can be a source of inspiration and empowerment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the negative impacts of social media on self-esteem and body image
- Explore how social media can be a source of inspiration and empowerment
- Present your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal view.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 7-8)
In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives, profoundly influencing how we perceive ourselves and others. While some argue that these platforms negatively impact self-esteem and body image, others contend that they can be a source of inspiration and empowerment. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
On one hand, social media can indeed have detrimental effects on an individual’s self-esteem and body image. The constant exposure to carefully curated and often edited images of seemingly perfect lives and bodies can lead to unrealistic comparisons and feelings of inadequacy. This phenomenon, often referred to as “social comparison,” can result in lowered self-esteem, anxiety, and even depression, particularly among young and impressionable users. Moreover, the pressure to maintain an idealized online persona can create a disconnect between one’s virtual and real-life identities, further exacerbating feelings of insecurity.
Conversely, social media platforms can serve as powerful tools for inspiration and empowerment. Many users find communities of like-minded individuals who offer support, encouragement, and motivation. For instance, body positivity movements on platforms like Instagram have helped countless individuals embrace their unique features and challenge unrealistic beauty standards. Furthermore, social media provides a platform for marginalized voices to be heard, enabling people to share their stories and experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and self-acceptance.
In my opinion, while the potential negative impacts of social media on self-esteem cannot be ignored, its capacity for positive influence is equally significant. The key lies in how we engage with these platforms and the content we choose to consume. By curating our feeds to include diverse, authentic, and uplifting content, we can harness the inspirational and empowering aspects of social media while mitigating its potential harm.
In conclusion, social media’s impact on self-esteem and body image is complex and multifaceted. While it can indeed contribute to negative self-perception, it also has the power to inspire and empower. Ultimately, fostering media literacy and promoting responsible usage are crucial in maximizing the benefits of social media while minimizing its potential drawbacks.
(Word count: 345)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Social media has become a big part of our lives today. Some people think it makes us feel bad about ourselves and our bodies, while others say it can inspire and empower us. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
On the negative side, social media can hurt our self-esteem and body image. When we see perfect pictures of people’s lives and bodies online, we might feel bad about ourselves. We compare our normal lives to these edited, perfect-looking posts and feel like we’re not good enough. This can make us feel sad or anxious, especially young people who use social media a lot. Also, trying to look perfect online all the time can be stressful and make us feel fake.
However, social media can also be good for us. It can help us find people like us who support and encourage each other. For example, there are groups on Instagram that help people feel good about their bodies, no matter what they look like. Social media also lets people who don’t usually get heard share their stories. This can make people feel like they belong and accept themselves more.
I think social media can be both good and bad for our self-esteem. It depends on how we use it and what we look at. If we follow accounts that make us feel good and show real people, social media can inspire us. But if we only look at perfect, fake images, it might make us feel bad.
To sum up, social media affects how we see ourselves in different ways. It can make us feel bad, but it can also inspire us. I think it’s important to learn how to use social media in a good way and to remember that not everything we see online is real.
(Word count: 298)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Use topic sentences to introduce each main point.
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Language: Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your band level. For higher bands, incorporate more sophisticated language and complex sentences.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Ensure your essay flows logically from one point to the next.
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Task Response: Address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your opinion.
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Examples: Use specific examples to support your points, making your essay more concrete and convincing.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Self-esteem (noun) /ˌself əˈstiːm/ – confidence in one’s own worth or abilities
- Body image (noun) /ˈbɒdi ˈɪmɪdʒ/ – a person’s perception of their physical self
- Curate (verb) /kjʊəˈreɪt/ – to select, organize, and present content
- Empowerment (noun) /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/ – the process of becoming stronger and more confident
- Marginalized (adjective) /ˈmɑːdʒɪnəlaɪzd/ – treated as insignificant or peripheral
- Authentic (adjective) /ɔːˈθentɪk/ – genuine or real
- Media literacy (noun) /ˈmiːdiə ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media
Conclusion
The impact of social media on self-esteem is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for similar questions, consider practicing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of social media in shaping beauty standards
- The impact of social media on mental health in teenagers
- The influence of social media on personal relationships
- The effects of social media on body image and eating disorders
- The role of social media in promoting diversity and inclusivity
By exploring these related topics, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle a wide range of questions on social media’s impact on individuals and society in your IELTS exam.
For more information on how social media influences mental health, you can check out our article on how social media influences mental health. Additionally, to understand the specific impact on teenagers, read our detailed analysis of the impact of social media on mental health in teenagers.