IELTS Writing Task 2: How Social Media Influences Mental Health in Adolescents – Sample Essays and Analysis

Social media’s impact on adolescent mental health has become a pressing concern in recent years, making it a popular topic for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests due to its ongoing significance in society. Let’s examine a sample question and provide two model essays to help you prepare for this potential IELTS Writing Task 2 topic.

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:

Some people believe that social media has a negative impact on the mental health of adolescents, while others argue that it can be beneficial. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the negative impacts of social media on adolescent mental health
2. Explore the potential benefits of social media for adolescents’ mental well-being
3. Provide your own perspective on the issue

Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, targeting different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Social media has become an integral part of adolescents’ lives, sparking debate about its impact on their mental health. While some argue that these platforms can be detrimental to young people’s psychological well-being, others contend that they offer valuable benefits. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this complex issue.

Those who criticize social media often point to its potential negative effects on adolescent mental health. Excessive use of platforms like Instagram and TikTok can lead to increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. This is partly due to the constant exposure to curated, idealized versions of others’ lives, which can create unrealistic expectations and foster a sense of inadequacy. Moreover, cyberbullying, a pervasive problem on social media, can have severe psychological consequences, including heightened stress levels and, in extreme cases, suicidal ideation.

Conversely, proponents of social media argue that it can positively influence adolescent mental health when used judiciously. These platforms can facilitate social connections, allowing young people to maintain relationships with friends and family, which is crucial for emotional well-being. Additionally, social media can serve as a valuable resource for mental health information and support, with many platforms hosting communities where adolescents can share experiences and seek advice. Furthermore, social media can be a creative outlet, enabling young people to express themselves and develop their identities in ways that may boost self-esteem and confidence.

Social media impact on mental health

In my opinion, the impact of social media on adolescent mental health is largely dependent on how it is used. While the potential for negative outcomes is significant, I believe that with proper guidance and moderation, social media can be a valuable tool for supporting adolescent mental well-being. Education about responsible social media use, combined with open dialogue between adolescents and adults about online experiences, is crucial to mitigating risks and maximizing benefits.

In conclusion, social media’s influence on adolescent mental health is multifaceted, with both potential drawbacks and advantages. By promoting balanced and mindful use of these platforms, we can work towards harnessing their positive aspects while minimizing their negative impacts on young people’s psychological well-being.

(Word count: 349)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Social media has become very popular among teenagers, and people have different opinions about how it affects their mental health. Some think it’s bad for young people, while others believe it can be helpful. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts on this topic.

Many people worry that social media can harm teenagers’ mental health. Using platforms like Instagram or Facebook too much can make young people feel sad, anxious, or bad about themselves. This is because they often see perfect-looking pictures of other people’s lives, which can make them feel like their own lives aren’t good enough. Also, cyberbullying is a big problem on social media, and it can really hurt teenagers emotionally.

On the other hand, some people say that social media can be good for teenagers’ mental health. It helps them stay in touch with friends and family, which is important for feeling happy and supported. Social media can also provide information about mental health and connect teenagers with others who have similar experiences. This can make them feel less alone. Additionally, social media allows teenagers to be creative and express themselves, which can make them feel good about who they are.

In my opinion, whether social media is good or bad for teenagers’ mental health depends on how they use it. I think it can be helpful if used carefully and in moderation. It’s important for adults to teach teenagers how to use social media safely and to talk with them about what they see and do online. This can help reduce the risks and make social media a more positive experience.

To conclude, social media can have both negative and positive effects on teenagers’ mental health. By teaching young people to use these platforms responsibly, we can try to make sure that social media helps rather than harms their well-being.

(Word count: 309)

Key Considerations When Writing

When tackling this IELTS Writing Task 2 topic, keep the following points in mind:

For Band 8-9 essays:

1. Use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
2. Provide in-depth analysis and well-developed arguments
3. Use clear topic sentences and effective paragraph transitions
4. Incorporate relevant examples to support your points
5. Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the issue

For Band 6-7 essays:

1. Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
2. Provide clear arguments with some supporting details
3. Use basic linking words to connect ideas
4. Offer a straightforward opinion on the topic
5. Demonstrate a good understanding of the main issues

Vocabulary to Remember

Here are some useful vocabulary items related to this topic:

1. Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/: The use of electronic communication to bully a person.

2. Self-esteem (noun) /ˌsɛlfɪˈstiːm/: Confidence in one’s own worth or abilities.

3. Curated (adjective) /ˈkjʊəreɪtɪd/: Carefully chosen and presented.

4. Pervasive (adjective) /pəˈveɪsɪv/: Spreading widely throughout an area or group of people.

5. Idealized (adjective) /aɪˈdɪəlaɪzd/: Regarded or represented as perfect or better than in reality.

6. Judiciously (adverb) /dʒuˈdɪʃəsli/: With good judgment or sense.

7. Mitigating (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪtɪŋ/: Making less severe, serious, or painful.

8. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.

In conclusion, the influence of social media on adolescent mental health is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues and practicing with sample essays, you can prepare effectively for this type of question. Remember to consider both positive and negative aspects, use appropriate vocabulary, and structure your essay clearly.

To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing and get feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam. Additionally, be prepared for variations on this theme, such as the impact of social media on academic performance or the role of parents in monitoring their children’s social media use.