Generation Z And The Social Media Paradox: How A Digital Revolution Turned Into A Double-edged Sword -By Zainab Bulama

As the first generation to grow up fully immersed in the digital era, Generation Z is more at home on social media platforms than any of their predecessors. For these young people, social media isn’t just a pastime; it is often an extension of their personalities, friendships, and ambitions. Yet, what was once a space for connection and creativity has grown into a landscape that, for many, fosters anxiety, self-doubt, and even addiction. In the age of constant connectivity, Generation Z is grappling with the consequences of excessive social media use, leading some to question whether the platforms that were meant to bring people together are, in fact, pushing them further apart.

At the heart of this paradox lies the complex nature of social media itself—a tool that simultaneously connects and isolates. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter provide Gen Z with a unique digital space to share their stories and find their voices. However, they also introduce a culture of comparison and performance, where validation is often measured in “likes” and “shares.” The allure of popularity online can be intoxicating, and for many in this age group, it creates a pressure to curate the “perfect” life, even if that life is far from reality.

The drive for social validation isn’t new, but the scale and accessibility that social media offers are unprecedented. A young person from a small town in Nigeria can now compare their life to that of a celebrity thousands of miles away, with just a scroll of the thumb. Studies have shown that such comparisons can have detrimental effects on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and diminished self-worth. Generation Z is particularly vulnerable, with research revealing that they report higher levels of mental health issues than any previous generation, often citing social media as a contributing factor.

Moreover, social media can amplify existing insecurities through what is now widely recognized as “comparison culture.” This phenomenon is especially prevalent on visual platforms like Instagram, where users are bombarded with images of seemingly perfect lives, sculpted bodies, and exotic vacations. For a young person still discovering their identity, such exposure can lead to harmful self-criticism and feelings of inadequacy. In a society that celebrates the “highlight reel,” many Gen Z users struggle to recognize that the reality behind these photos is often heavily edited and curated.

But beyond mental health, another concerning trend among Gen Z is the prevalence of cyberbullying and harassment on social media. The anonymous nature of online platforms can encourage negative behaviors that young people might not engage in face-to-face. Reports have shown that cyberbullying can have long-lasting psychological effects, with victims often struggling with low self-esteem, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Ironically, while social media is a place where young people go to find community, it can also become a place of isolation and hostility.

Alongside these issues is the phenomenon of oversharing, where users reveal intimate details of their lives online. For Gen Z, sharing on social media has become second nature, but the consequences of this can be severe. Personal information, once shared, is difficult to retrieve, and many young people do not fully understand the implications of such exposure. From career risks to privacy invasions, the oversharing culture creates vulnerabilities that could follow them for years.

The influence of social media on real-world interactions is also a concern. With much of their communication happening online, many Gen Z individuals face challenges when engaging in face-to-face conversations. Some young people report feeling anxious or awkward in social situations, which has led to discussions around the impact of social media on empathy and social skills. As they become more accustomed to the screen than to people, the risk of becoming detached from real-world relationships looms large.

In addition to personal consequences, the misuse of social media also affects how Generation Z engages in activism and social issues. While these platforms have undeniably provided young people with tools for mobilizing and raising awareness, there is an element of performative activism that is hard to ignore. “Hashtag activism” can sometimes substitute genuine involvement, where sharing a post becomes a way of appearing concerned without taking meaningful action. For some, social media has transformed important social causes into trends that garner attention temporarily before they fade away.

The impact of this new digital landscape on education cannot be overlooked either. In many classrooms, teachers report a decline in students’ attention spans and a struggle to retain information, challenges often attributed to the continuous stimuli from digital devices. Young people’s brains are adapting to a fast-paced world of notifications, often at the cost of deep thinking and focus. This shift not only affects academic performance but could also have lasting implications on cognitive development.

So, how should society respond to this growing challenge? Parents, educators, and policymakers have a role to play in guiding Generation Z toward a more balanced relationship with social media. Schools, for instance, could introduce digital literacy programs that teach young people about the pitfalls of social media and the importance of maintaining privacy online. Parents, too, can lead by example, encouraging offline activities and setting boundaries around screen time. By fostering open conversations, they can help their children navigate the digital world without falling into its many traps.

Furthermore, tech companies must take greater responsibility for the content they promote. The algorithms that prioritize sensationalism, controversy, and image-driven content need re-evaluation to prevent the spread of harmful ideas and reinforce positive engagement. Some platforms have already begun testing features to reduce user anxiety, like hiding “likes” on posts, but more widespread and impactful changes are needed.

Generation Z’s relationship with social media is complex, filled with both promise and peril. As they continue to adapt to this digital age, there is hope that they will also lead the way in redefining how social media can be used responsibly. While social media has indeed become an integral part of their lives, young people are also increasingly aware of its risks. Some have already begun to step back, choosing to take “social media breaks” or curating their feeds to prioritize positive content.

Ultimately, the journey to a healthier digital landscape requires collective effort. If society can encourage mindful and responsible usage of social media, it may yet become a tool that serves its users, rather than the other way around. For Generation Z, the challenge lies in reclaiming social media as a space that fosters real connection, self-acceptance, and growth.

Zainab Bulama, a student from Mass Communication Department Borno State University Maiduguri.