Positive Effects of Social Media: Although social media encourages us to stay in touch with our family members, especially those who do not live near us, communicating online is not the same thing as meeting in person. It is still crucial to have family reunions and have family events. Social media is not an accurate representation of a person's life so it is important to have time to catch up with each other. Before social media, people would have annual family reunions and keep their family dynamic close, so why should the existence of social media change this?  

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Hiding Behind Screens: The fact that less teens are getting their driver's licenses is not correlated to the use of social media. The increased use of ride share apps such as Uber and Lyft makes it very easy to find a ride to go almost anywhere without having to drive yourself. Teens are able to be more independent with the use of these apps because they can go wherever they want with the press of a button. They no longer need their parents to drive them places either. These apps make it easier for teens to go hang out with their friends whether or not they have a license. Teens are now becoming more social due to the easy access of finding a car ride. 

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Exclusion and Social Media: Social media can cause teens to feel included and be part of a close knit friend group. It is now very easy to make last minute plans and to get an immediate response. The ability to text someone and receive an answer within seconds makes teenagers feel good about themselves and gives them instant gratification. Teens are also able to make group chats which enables them to feel good about themselves and gives them a sense of security. Being able to post a picture on Snapchat with your closest friends at a hangout, makes us feel accepted and that we belong into our society.