The Anxiety.org article “Is Your Online Addiction Making You Anxious” (2015) states that social media provokes anxiety. They back up with claim with evidence that concepts such as compare and despair and fear of missing out lead to social anxiety and sometimes obsessive-compulsive disorder. The purpose of this article is to educate people about how social media addiction is a serious issue and in some cases can be harder to refrain from the smoking or drinking. The use of casual language and content in this article appeal to the general public, especially those who use social media.
The use of social media can lead to serious cases of social anxiety and other specific anxiety related disorders. Today’s social media users have an obsession with virtual sharing and communication. They seek out verification from their followers and friends and crave to be the subject of envy. Keeping up the image of a perfect life on social media can be stressful for some users. Without verification from other users people will start comparing their virtual life to others and this can lead to other serious mental problems.
“Is Your Online Addiction Making You Anxious?” Anxiety.org. N.p., 14 Dec. 2015. Web. 23 Feb. 2016.
Media Influence 
I think it’s important for individuals that use social media to be aware of the self-esteem issues that it can create. This article is a great example of how individuals can become obsessed to the point of dependency with social media and seeking acceptance from their followers.
Should people be monitored of there social media use?
Should parents be concerned?
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That’s interesting they compared social anxiety with smoking and drinking. It would be a benefit for all parties if more research was done on that topic. For instance what would the results be from measuring social media anxiety amongst alcoholics and smokers vs non smokers and drinkers?
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