teens & social media myths & truths aboutdea22/shorterinfographic.pdf · teens' use of...

Often teens’ online interactions with teachers, parents, and other adults are positive. Benefits include homework guidance, mentoring, and modeling of appropriate social media behaviors, such as privacy protection and online civility.

2

1

Based on research conducted in the U.S. and funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, IMLS Award LG-06-11-0261-11. For more information, visit Drexel University Youth Online at youthonline.ischool.drexel.edu, or email project investigators Denise E. Agosto, Ph.D., at dea22@drexel.edu, or Andrea Forte, Ph.D., at andrea.forte@drexel.edu.

Teens talk about everything online and have little regard for personal privacy.

Most teens have thought about the kinds of personal information they are willing to put online. Personal sharing practices range from very restrictive to very forthcoming.

Teens' use of social media is frivolous.

Teens’ social media use can serve as an outlet for a wealth of healthy behaviors, from creative writing, to music production, to pursuing hobbies, to seeking emotional support from peers and family members, to much more.

Facebook and other social media just distract teens from schoolwork.

1

3

Myths & Truths about Teens & Social Media

Internet in schools and libraries is just for finding information.

MYTHS TRUTHS

3

2

It's dangerous for teens to interact with adults online.

5 5

Many teens use social media to collaborate on homework, to organize school club activities and sports practices, and to coordinate participation in civic organizations and volunteer activities.

Most teens use social media as dynamic communication tools, asking and answering questions; discussing current events, politics, music, literature, popular culture, and more; and working collaboratively on homework and other projects.

44