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Now that you are in years 11-14, it’s important to begin to make you more aware of the wider world that exists beyond the school gates.

There are numerous stories of the negative impact that social media can have on young people. Watch the video below from Dove. Please note that it features real stories about body appearance that some viewers may find upsetting.

Dove: Self-esteem project

Social media can and does have an impact on how we view ourselves. Have you ever thought about how social media could negatively impact your university or career chances?

Mistakes to Avoid on Social Media

When using social media platforms, it’s important to be mindful of the content you share and how you engage with others. Here are some common mistakes to avoid on social media:

Oversharing Personal Information

Avoid sharing excessive personal information such as your home address, phone number, financial details, or other sensitive data. Protect your privacy by being cautious about what you reveal online.

Posting Inappropriate Content

Be mindful of the content you post (including content that includes other people – do you have permission to do this?). Avoid sharing inappropriate or offensive material, including discriminatory or hateful language, explicit images, or anything that could harm your personal or professional reputation.

Engaging in Cyberbullying or Harassment

Treat others with respect and kindness online. Avoid engaging in cyberbullying, harassment, or online arguments that can escalate tensions and cause harm. Think before you comment or share and consider the potential impact of your words.

Ignoring Privacy Settings

Take the time to understand and manage your privacy settings on social media platforms. Adjust your settings to control who can see your posts, personal information, and photos. Regularly review and update these settings as needed.

Falling for Phishing Scams

Be cautious of suspicious messages, links, or emails that may be phishing attempts. Avoid clicking on unknown links or providing personal information to untrusted sources. Verify the authenticity of requests before sharing any sensitive data.

Posting Intoxicated or Regrettable Content

Be cautious about posting content when under the influence of alcohol or in emotional states. Impulsive or regrettable posts can have lasting consequences. Take a moment to reflect before sharing anything that could be detrimental to your reputation.

Neglecting Grammar and Spelling

Pay attention to your grammar, spelling, and overall quality of your posts. Sloppy or poorly written content may reflect negatively on your professionalism and attention to detail. Avoid using ‘text speak’ on any public forum.

Relying Solely on Social Media for Communication

While social media platforms offer convenient ways to connect, avoid relying solely on them for important or sensitive communications. Use more secure channels like private messaging, email, or in-person conversations for confidential or critical discussions.

Posting Every Detail of Your Life

Exercise discretion in what you share. Not every aspect of your life needs to be documented on social media. Avoid oversharing mundane or trivial details that may lead to information overload or make you vulnerable to security risks.

Neglecting to Fact-Check

Before sharing news articles or information, verify the accuracy and credibility of the content. Misinformation spreads easily on social media, and sharing unreliable information can contribute to the spread of false narratives.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can maintain a positive and responsible presence on social media, protecting your privacy, reputation, and relationships with others. Use social media platforms as a tool for connecting, sharing, and engaging in a thoughtful and respectful manner.

Negative effects of social media on Children

Positive Ways to Use Social Media

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