The use of social media is replacing face-to-face interaction among many people in society. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Nowadays, whether of question face-to-face communication is being replaced with online conversations using social media apps, such as Facebook, What App or Instagram, or not has gained a great deal of public attention. Although the use of these apps is not without advantages, the drawbacks will overshadow these.

In terms of benefits, social media have made it easier for us to keep in touch with our loved ones, regardless of geographical. Students studying abroad, for example, can keep in touch with their families and friends daily using the video call features of Skype, Facebook or various other apps, which makes our life more convenient. Bedside, social networking sites play a vital role in business, they are powerful tools to accelerate the flow of information, companies can keep their clients updated regarding newly-released products or promotions by posting their campaigns on Facebook or Instagram, which not only generates more business but also connect with customers better and serve them on a higher level.

The overuse of social media reduces the quality of interpersonal communication. First, since many people, particularly young users, are being addicted to social media networking sites, such as Facebook, Instagram, so on, they indulge themselves into the virtual world instead of spending their time with family or engaging in physical activities, resulting them downplaying the importance of face-to-face interaction on which true human relationships thrive. Additionally, social media are a toxic environment where people can fall prey to online communication abuse, such as online bullying and harassment. A research survey finds that 59% of US teens have been bullied or harassed online while about third (32%) of teens say someone has spread false rumors about them on the Internet, which drives the deterioration in young people's mental health.

In conclusion, the positive effects that social media has on our communication are outweighed by the disadvantages. By balancing the pros with the cons for the most things our life.