Nowadays, social media is definitely one of the most beneficial tools, isn’t it? Initially reserved for individual users, multiple networks have exploded into the frenzied environment of business communication and marketing. At this very moment, you can search for the Walt Disney Company or Microsoft, and both companies will invite you to like them on Facebook or follow them on Instagram and Twitter (or even Tumblr). America and the world have become virtually connected, but, like every positive aspect of our lives, there is always a shady alternative. For many parents, social media is a bit of risky business where their teenagers are concerned, as blogs and sharing platforms are viable portals for sharing info about drugs and alcohol. Needless to say, that is the last thing parents want their kids to be exposed to. Let’s take a closer look at how peer pressure is a dangerous reality on social media.
More Seen, More Consumed
According to a recent report, a team of researchers from the University of Michigan School of Public Health conducted issued a poll to 3,447 people between the ages of 18 and 24 (all across the United States). One of the most interesting features of the study revealed that the more alcoholic content these young people viewed on screen, the more willing they were to consume alcoholic drinks. In other words, if people viewed a particularly large quantity of photos, images, links, and comments related to alcohol consumption, their curiosity was piqued. While the team could not directly link drinking issues with images of alcohol on social media, they did make another interesting discovery.
Peer Pressure Is Real
Although the psychological connection between drinking and drug use on social media was not officially cemented, the University of Michigan team did make an interesting discovery about peer pressure. According to their findings, young people who were particularly nervous about how their peers would perceive marijuana use were less likely to report marijuana-related activity than non-users.
On a positive note, though, some people believed their loved ones and friends would be highly disappointed if they viewed images depicting alcoholic drinks (or alcohol consumption). In this case, these young people would abstain from drinking altogether.
Always remember that alcohol and drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
