Week 7 Discussion 2 Response

Please no plagiarism and make sure you are able to access all resource on your own before you bid. One of the references must come from Broderick and Blewitt (2015). I need this completed by 01/13/18 at 7pm.

Respond by Day 7 to my colleagues using one or more of the following approaches:

· Offer and support at least two strategies that might help counselors approach adolescents whose development and identity have been negatively impacted by social media.

· Suggest at least two websites, professional organizations, or other resources that a counselor might use when working with or obtaining information about the impact of social media. Support your response by describing how and why a counselor might use each resource.

· Expand on your colleague’s posting by providing additional insights or contrasting perspectives based on readings and evidence.

1. (B. Smi)

Social Media use has increased tremendously over the years and its influence has sky rocketed along with it. Social Media is not only limited to the internet but includes music, television, and video games. The impact of social media on the development and decision-making of adolescents is so important as social media often shapes attitudes and beliefs.  

Potential Impacts of Social Media and Technology

Research has linked playing violent video games to increased aggressive behavior in adolescents and teens. Broderick & Blewit (2015) indicated that the more children within the U.S. and Japan played these games, the more aggressive behavior they displayed. There was also a reported decrease in prosocial behavior and empathy.

Broderick & Blewitt report continuous engrossment of violent video games could also result in an adolescent becoming antisocial. Research highlights that youth are not simply playing these games but they are interacting emotionally and psychologically (Broderick & Blewiit, 2015).  Essentially, processing and practicing the violent behaviors they are subjected to within the games.

How Influences Impact Decision-Making in Adolescents

Impacts of social media extend far beyond violence to include sexual and materialistic agendas. A great example of this could be music videos. Often times, rappers or singers are discussing drugs, fast money, and unlimited and likely unprotected sex with women. These same views can be obtained by any of the many television shows on air at this current moment or in the past few years.

Research has indicated that social media and television shows that display sexuality more liberally have been linked to an increase in sexual behavior of adolescents (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015). Study results reveal that individuals who were exposed to such materials began participating in sexual activities earlier and had more sexual partners than those who were not exposed to these particular television programs.