Living in the real present rather than in the virtual

As a result of social media, today’s adolescents are missing out on developing both social and communication skills, says Isabelle Anastasi I wouldn’t want to be an adolescent right now. It’s extremely hard, difficult and tiring. It’s almost impossible to keep up with what is happening today in adolescence – not just radical changes on a physical and emotional level but there’s also the added struggle of being on social media. I have no idea how many different types of social platforms are available today. I am aware of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and a few others, but I bet that there are lots of different others for young people to browse and be part of. Interaction on social media, if balanced and monitored, is not always catastrophic. If I had to think about it, I would say that it is easier to socialise on a platform rather than on a face-to-face basis and it takes less time to do so than in real time. Young people who may lack social skills or suffer from social anxiety, for example, might find it easier to socialise on a social platform. Those who may pertain to minority groups are also able to join groups where they can find the support and make easier connections for...