Week 10 – Journal Entry #9: Reflecting on My Social Media Usage

After answering the nine questions honestly, I found that my score fell within the “risky usage” category. This means that while my social media habits are not necessarily problematic, there are some aspects I should be mindful of. Specifically, I realized that I sometimes feel dissatisfied with the amount of time I spend on social media and have had conflicts with others regarding my usage. Additionally, I occasionally use social media as a way to escape personal problems, which is something I should reflect on further.

Thinking about the scale itself, I find it to be a useful tool for self-reflection. Many of its criteria resemble those used to diagnose other behavioral dependencies, highlighting how deeply social media can impact mental health and daily life. However, I also recognize that heavy social media use isn’t inherently negative, it often depends on context. For example, social media is essential for communication, work, and staying informed, but when it begins to interfere with responsibilities or relationships, it can become a concern.

This leads me to consider why different people across the world have varying social media habits. Cultural norms, access to technology, and economic factors all play a role in shaping how people use these platforms. In some places, social media is a primary means of connection, while in others, face-to-face interactions are still prioritized.