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In the wake of a tragic incident that claimed the life of 19-year-old Shivansh, who lost his life while filming a reel for social media, psychologists are sounding the alarm on the dangers of seeking validation and recognition online. The heartbreaking incident has prompted experts to call for greater parental involvement and collaboration with schools to address the underlying issues driving risky behavior on social media platforms.
According to clinical psychologist Prof Pallavi Bhatnagar, young people are increasingly turning to social media in search of recognition and validation, often at the expense of their safety and well-being. In a quest for attention, adolescents may engage in risky behaviors, disregarding the potential consequences in their pursuit of online fame.
Prof Bhatnagar emphasized the importance of parents and schools working together to provide the love and validation that young people crave, thereby reducing the allure of seeking validation through risky online activities. She underscored the need for parents to engage in open communication with their children and to encourage healthy offline activities that promote a sense of belonging and security.
Similarly, Prof Adarsh Tripathi from the psychiatry department of King George’s Medical University (KGMU) highlighted the addictive nature of social media, likening it to a dopamine rush in the brain. He revealed that a concerning number of young patients struggling with social media addiction and suicidal feelings seek assistance daily, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support.
To address the growing trend of risky behavior on social media, Prof Bhatnagar suggested organizing group discussions in schools to raise awareness about the potential dangers of seeking validation online. Additionally, Prof Tripathi recommended delaying the provision of smartphones with social media access to adolescents and promoting outdoor activities as a healthier alternative.
In a surprising revelation, it was noted that all top scorers in the UP Board examinations shared a common trait: they maintained a minimal presence on social media. These high achievers emphasized the importance of prioritizing academic pursuits over online validation, advocating for a balanced approach to technology usage.
The toppers emphasized the value of traditional learning methods and daily revisions over excessive reliance on online resources and coaching classes. Their disciplined approach to studying, coupled with a deliberate avoidance of social media distractions, underscores the importance of offline engagement in academic success.
As society grapples with the pervasive influence of social media, the tragic loss of Shivansh serves as a poignant reminder of the need for collective action to safeguard the well-being of young people in the digital age. Through concerted efforts from parents, educators, and mental health professionals, we can strive to create a safer and healthier online environment for future generations.
