A RECENT survey conducted among young people in Johannesburg revealed that social media is more than just an information hub or a pastime – it has become a necessity.

Statistics show how a change in behaviour and attitude is influenced by social media activists who are constantly posting and uploading their unapologetic views, photos and videos, which often ignite controversy.

According to Krugersdorp News, this is how many social media users gain more followers and friends who make them famous.

Many active social media users are concerned about increasing their likes, comments and shares – some even write “Don’t follow to unfollow” on their biographies, an instruction they give to their new and potential followers.

“When my post gets a reaction like a share or a like, I feel awesome. And I gain more followers after intriguing posts – I am building my brand, one post at a time,” said Drama and Creative Arts student, Charmaine Smith, who has a huge following on popular social media networks.

Social media is a great platform to express views, talent, aspirations and to share news. However, there are people who have low self-esteem thanks to the down-side of social media, such as cyber-bullying which often leads to a change in behaviour when victims defend themselves.

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Emotions run high and others use unacceptable language, which is one of the factors that negatively influence their professional lives. Hacking is another dark side of social media, as people are known to hack users’ online accounts for identity theft.

Relationships also suffer because many social media users are constantly online. Twelebs (Twitter celebs) use online platforms for just about everything, including shopping, making bookings, and banking and would rather video call than visit their loved ones in person. Many Twelebs would check in and take multiple selfies to show their followers how they live and which fascinating places they go to, which makes most of their loved ones feel left out or ignored.

“Social media users should not allow their pastime to determine how they live their lives, because this causes a breakdown in their relationships, and a lack of the communication that is vital for successful, healthy relationships,” said Noordheuwel-based clinical relationship therapist and registered counsellor, Susan Eksteen.

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