What Young People Want Professionals to Understand About Their Online Lives
The internet and social media have become a massive part of young people's lives, shaping their identities, relationships, and daily experiences. But how well do professionals really understand what young people are doing with their time online?
At The Social Switch Project, we asked participants of our Digital Skills & Employability Programme what they wish professionals knew about their online lives. We found that there is often a disconnect between how adults perceive young people's online activities and the reality of their digital interactions.
This is what young people wish professionals knew about their online lives:
Remove the Stigma
Many young people feel there is a negative perception around their social media use coming from adults. They want professionals to understand that for young people, social media is not just a pastime; it’s a part of their daily lives.
Even if a young person does not engage with social media directly it will still be present in their lives through their peers, and they may feel a sense of alienation if they are not online like their peers.
Young people want professionals to explore resources that encourage healthy screen time management and support a balanced relationship with social media, rather than criticise their usage. Resources such as The Social Switch Project's Online Harms Training can help professionals navigate these conversations and support young people in developing a positive relationship with the digital world.
Look Beyond the Surface
Young people believe there is a misconception that young people are “lazy” and spend their time online sharing funny memes or watching Youtube videos.
They want professionals to know that social media offers much more than entertainment - it can be a powerful tool for networking, learning, and self expression. When used effectively, it enables young people to build connections, discover job opportunities, and engage with communities that matter to them.
In fact, young people have a much deeper understanding of the digital world and the risks they face than many adults working with them. 90% of young people report that social media helps them feel more connected to their friends, which is particularly important during challenging times.
Dismissing young people’s online activity as unproductive can prevent meaningful conversations about their digital experiences. By acknowledging the diverse ways social media can be used and the huge impact it can have, professionals can foster better understanding and provide better support for their young people. The Social Switch Project’s Online Harms Training helps professionals gain insight into how young people spend their time online, equipping them with the knowledge to engage in informed and supportive conversations.
Be in the Loop
Young people believe professionals should actively engage with the evolving landscape of social media and stay informed about relevant trends.
Young people are exposed to a broad range of content on social media, which goes beyond just entertainment. They encounter real-world political and social issues, and there is always the potential for exposure to harmful content.
Being aware of the trends, platforms, and challenges young people navigate online allows professionals to foster meaningful conversations, provide better support, and help to prevent young people from falling victim to misinformation or becoming radicalised. The Social Switch Project’s Online Harms Training equips professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to engage effectively with young people about their digital lives.
Bridge the Knowledge Gap
Young people often feel they are better at navigating the online world than the adults around them. To bridge this gap and better safeguard young people online, professionals should upskill themselves and deepen their understanding of social media. This knowledge will allow them to navigate the digital landscape effectively and ensure young people’s safety. Young people want to see professionals taking the initiative, asking questions, and engaging in discussions about things they don’t understand. The Social Switch Project’s Online Harms Training offers professionals the tools and knowledge to better understand the digital landscape and have informed conversations with young people.
To truly support and protect young people, professionals must understand how they interact with social media and the digital world. By moving past negative assumptions, recognising the broader value of social media, staying up to date with trends and risks, and closing the knowledge gap, professionals can have more meaningful and productive conversations with young people. The Social Switch Project’s Online Harms Training provides professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to connect with and support young people in the digital space. Book your free Online Harms Training session today and take the first step toward better safeguarding young people’s online experiences and well-being.