Benefits of internet and social media

 The internet and social media provide young people with a range of benefits, and opportunities to empower themselves in a variety of ways. Young people can maintain social connections and support networks that otherwise wouldn't be possible, and can access more information than ever before. The communities and social interactions young people form online can be invaluable for bolstering and developing young people's self-confidence and social skills.

This will help you to:

• 1. understand some of the benefits of internet and social media
• 2. understand why technology is so attractive to young people
• 3. understand the positive uses of social media and online spaces
• talk to young people about what they use technology for.

The use of social media and networking services such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat have become an integral part of Australians’ daily lives. While many associate social media with a degradation of young people’s social networks and communication skills, a literature review published by the Young and Well Cooperative Research Centre found that social networking services actually play a vital role for in young people’s lives - delivering educational outcomes; facilitating supportive relationships; identity formation; and, promoting a sense of belonging and self-esteem.