The topic of social media’s impact on teenagers’ mental health has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent exam reports and impact of social media on mental health among teenagers, this theme appears in approximately 15% of tests, particularly in Agree/Disagree and Discussion type questions.
Teenagers using social media devices showing signs of mental stress
Task Analysis
Some people believe that social media platforms have a negative impact on teenagers’ mental health and well-being. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to express their position on whether social media negatively affects teenagers’ mental health. A well-structured response should:
- Present a clear stance
- Provide specific examples
- Support arguments with evidence
- Consider potential counterarguments
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In my opinion, social media platforms significantly contribute to mental health issues among teenagers. This essay will examine the various ways these digital platforms can negatively impact young people’s psychological well-being.
Firstly, social media creates unrealistic expectations and promotes harmful comparison. When teenagers constantly view carefully curated highlights of others’ lives, they often develop feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. For instance, studies have shown that excessive exposure to filtered photos and idealized lifestyles on Instagram can lead to body image issues and depression among adolescents, particularly young girls. This phenomenon is closely related to the effects of social media on body image.
Furthermore, social media platforms can foster addiction-like behaviors that disrupt mental well-being. The constant need to check notifications, seek likes, and maintain online presence can create anxiety and sleep disorders. Research indicates that teenagers who spend more than three hours daily on social media are at higher risk of developing mental health issues compared to those with limited usage.
Additionally, cyberbullying and online harassment have become prevalent issues that severely impact teenagers’ mental health. Unlike traditional bullying, online harassment can occur 24/7, leaving victims feeling constantly vulnerable and unable to escape. This continuous exposure to negative interactions can lead to severe anxiety, depression, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts.
However, it would be remiss not to acknowledge that social media can also provide support networks and resources for teenagers struggling with mental health issues. Many young people find comfort in online communities where they can share experiences and seek advice. Nevertheless, these benefits are often outweighed by the numerous negative impacts.
In conclusion, while social media platforms may offer some positive aspects, their overall impact on teenagers’ mental health is predominantly negative. To address this issue, it is crucial for parents, educators, and platform developers to work together in creating safer online environments and promoting healthy social media usage among teenagers.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I strongly agree that social media has bad effects on teenagers’ mental health. There are many reasons why I think this is true.
First, social media makes teenagers feel bad about themselves. When they see their friends posting perfect pictures and having fun all the time, they feel like their own life is not good enough. This makes them sad and worried. For example, many teenage girls feel upset when they see beautiful models on Instagram because they think they don’t look good enough.
Second, teenagers spend too much time on social media and this is not healthy. They always want to check their phones for new likes and comments. This makes them addicted and they can’t focus on important things like studying or sleeping properly. When examining the Causes of youth mental health issues?, this addiction plays a significant role.
Also, there is a lot of bullying on social media. Bad people can write mean comments and share embarrassing pictures. This makes teenagers feel very upset and scared. Sometimes they don’t want to go to school because of online bullying.
But social media is not all bad. Sometimes it helps teenagers make friends and learn new things. They can talk to other people who understand their problems. However, I think the bad things are more serious than the good things.
In conclusion, I believe social media is mostly harmful for teenagers’ mental health. Parents and teachers should help teenagers use social media less and teach them how to stay safe online.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with well-developed ideas
- Effective use of examples and evidence
- Balanced consideration of counterarguments
- Strong cohesion and coherence
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Limited range of linking devices
- Some development of ideas
- Basic examples provided
- Less sophisticated argument development
Key Vocabulary
- psychological well-being (n.) /ˌsaɪkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈwelbiːɪŋ/ – mental and emotional health
- inadequacy (n.) /ɪnˈædɪkwəsi/ – feeling of not being good enough
- curated (adj.) /kjʊˈreɪtɪd/ – carefully chosen and organized
- vulnerability (n.) /ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/ – state of being easily hurt
- cyberbullying (n.) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – online harassment
- prevalent (adj.) /ˈprevələnt/ – widespread, common
- addiction-like (adj.) /əˈdɪkʃən laɪk/ – resembling addictive behavior
- detrimental (adj.) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
Looking ahead, candidates should also prepare for related topics such as What are the advantages and disadvantages of social media and Modern communication technology’s negative effect on social relationships: agree or disagree.
Practice by writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback. Consider exploring variations of this topic, such as the impact of social media on academic performance or family relationships.
