With platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok becoming central to children's daily lives, there is growing concern about the effect of social media on their self-esteem. Children and adolescents are constantly exposed to idealised versions of life, creating unrealistic expectations and leading to negative comparisons. At our child psychotherapy clinic in Luton, we see firsthand how these issues can impact young minds.
One of the biggest concerns is the constant comparison that social media fosters. Children and teens often measure their self-worth based on the number of likes, comments, or followers they have. When they perceive themselves as falling short of these online standards, their self-esteem can suffer.
At our Luton clinic, we frequently hear about the emotional toll this takes on young people. The need for external validation can erode their confidence and result in feelings of inadequacy. Left unchecked, this can lead to anxiety, body image concerns, and even depression.
As child psychotherapists, we address these challenges by helping children develop a stronger sense of self that isn't dependent on online validation. Our therapy sessions focus on building internal resilience, teaching young people to value themselves independently of what others think or how they appear online.
We also encourage families to set healthy boundaries around social media use. Encouraging digital detoxes and promoting offline activities can help children regain a sense of balance and self-worth.
Parents can play a crucial role in helping their children navigate the tricky terrain of social media:
Encourage your child to talk about their online experiences. Discuss how social media makes them feel and validate their emotions.
Establish boundaries around screen time and create tech-free zones or times, especially before bed.
Encourage your child to engage in offline activities such as sports, hobbies, or spending time with family and friends.
Show your child that their self-worth should come from within, not from external validation.
Social media’s influence on self-esteem in children and adolescents is a growing concern. But with the right support, young people can learn to build confidence that doesn’t rely on their online presence. If your child is struggling with self-esteem or other social media-related issues, our child psychotherapists in Luton are here to help.