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Module 8 Unit 2

Digital technology and social media have transformed communication, relationships, and social movements in the 21st century, creating both positive and negative impacts. While they facilitate global connections and activism, they can also lead to shallow friendships, identity confusion, and mental health issues. Additionally, challenges such as privacy concerns, cyberbullying, and the digital divide highlight the complexities of navigating this new digital culture.

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8 views2 pages

Module 8 Unit 2

Digital technology and social media have transformed communication, relationships, and social movements in the 21st century, creating both positive and negative impacts. While they facilitate global connections and activism, they can also lead to shallow friendships, identity confusion, and mental health issues. Additionally, challenges such as privacy concerns, cyberbullying, and the digital divide highlight the complexities of navigating this new digital culture.

Uploaded by

sumayyah ktk
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Module 8: Social Problems and Social Sciences

Unit 2: Digital Culture and Social Media Digital Culture and Social Media

Impact on Social Relationships, Identity, and Social Movements:


Introduction: In the 21st century, digital technology and social media have changed how
people talk, express themselves, and join social or political causes. What used to be private
and local is now public and global. The rise of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,
TikTok, and YouTube, along with messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Snapchat, has
redefined social life in both positive and negative ways. It’s important to think about how
these changes affect our relationships, identities, and communities.

1. Impact on Social Relationships:


a. Redefinition of Communication: Digital technologies have revolutionized the way
people interact. Communication is now faster, more efficient, and borderless. Now, we can
communicate quickly and easily with anyone, anywhere in the world. Social media helps us
talk to family, friends, or coworkers in real time.
Positive Side:
We can keep in touch with people who live far away, make new friends, and reconnect with
old ones. Apps like Zoom and Skype let us see each other through video calls.
Negative Side:
Depending too much on online chatting can make relationships weaker. Many people now
prefer texting instead of meeting in person, which can reduce closeness and real connection.

b. Shallow Friendships:
Social media often makes people think that getting "likes" and "follows" means they are
popular or liked. This can create fake or weak relationships. Online friends are easy to make,
but these friendships don’t always last or feel deep like real-life ones.

c. Family and Age Differences:


There is a gap between young and old people in using digital technology. Young people use it
a lot, while older people may find it hard to keep up. This can cause misunderstandings, less
communication, and even arguments in families.

2. Impact on Identity:
a. Online Identity:
Social media lets people show a chosen version of themselves, often making life look perfect
by their profiles or posts, leading to a phenomenon called "performative identity".
 People can explore their identity (gender, sexuality, religion, profession) more freely.
 However, this can also lead to identity confusion, especially for teens, who may feel
pressure to fit in.

b. Self-Esteem and Mental Health:


Comparing yourself to others online, especially influencers or celebrities, can lower self-
esteem and affect mental health. Social media is often blamed for anxiety, depression, and
body image issues, particularly among teenagers.
 For example, platforms like Instagram can make young girls feel anxious or unhappy
about their looks.

c. Hiding Real Identity/Anonymity and Alter Egos:


Some platforms allow users to hide their real identity. This can help with self-expression, but
it can also result in cyberbullying, trolling, and online harassment.

3. Impact on Social and Political Movements:


a. Protests and Awareness:
Social media platforms are powerful tools for organizing protests, raising awareness, and
promoting causes. It helps people come together, share stories, and support causes like
#MeToo, #BlackLivesMatter, and #FreePalestine.
 Example: The Arab Spring used social media to organize protests and spread news.
b. Citizen Journalism:
Regular people can now record and share real events, giving a voice to those ignored by big
media.
c. Activism or Slacktivism:
Online activism can create change, but just liking or sharing posts without real action is
called "slacktivism." —activism that lacks real commitment or results.

d. Fake News and Division/Misinformation and Polarization:


Social media can spread lies, propagandas and show only what people agree with, leading to
social polarization.

Challenges of the Digital Age:


1. Privacy Issues: Personal data can be misused by companies or hackers.
2. Cyberbullying: Online hate and bullying can harm mental health, especially in youth.
3. Addiction: Too much screen time can cause sleep problems and less focus.
4. Digital Divide: Not everyone has internet access, making inequality worse.

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