Memo To: [Frances Denise Hunt] From: [De'Shawn Virgil, ENG 111-2F02 ] Date: [01 Nov 2018] Subject: [the broad topic]
Introduction [ The provided brackets, to include the heading, are directional and should be removed once you fill-in the appropriate information. The memo will be single-spaced and will be divided with subheadings, which are provided . Under the introduction, include a brief overview of your topic, why you chose this topic, and your current position on this topic. For this assignment, first person “I†is allowed.
The Introduction and Topic Tests sections will likely be your longest sections on this assignment.]
Objective [Under this subheading, explain your purpose for writing about this topic, and what you hope to accomplish with your discussion.]
Topic Test [Since this topic will be used for an argumentative position paper, it must pass the topic tests. In this section, clearly explain how your focused topic is (1) debatable—reasonable opposition exists, (2) plausible—able to be proven, and (3) consequential—important to your reading audience. Be sure to include some of the more common opposing arguments when discussing its debatability, please.]
Research Question [In this section, establish a research question to be answered through research—e.g. Is immigration detrimental to our economy or our safety? Later, this question will be used to create a tentative research statement for the visual and textual argument. For now, you simply need to propose a topic. Please do not begin writing the paper for the topic, as you will receive specific paper guidelines at a later date, and the topic must be approved.]
Paper For Above instruction
The purpose of this memo is to outline the initial planning stages for my argumentative research paper, focusing on selecting an appropriate topic and establishing a foundation for the discussion. My chosen topic revolves around the impact of social media on mental health, a subject that has garnered significant public interest and scholarly attention. I selected this topic because of my personal interest in mental health issues and the pervasive influence of social media in daily life. I believe this topic is crucial as it affects a broad demographic, especially young adults, and has societal implications that warrant thorough investigation.
My current position on this topic is that social media has both positive and negative effects on mental health, but the negative aspects tend to outweigh the positives, especially when usage becomes excessive
or unmoderated. I aim to explore how social media contributes to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues among users. This perspective is based on preliminary research indicating a correlation between social media usage and adverse mental health outcomes, but I acknowledge the need for more comprehensive evidence to support these claims.
The objective of my research is to critically analyze the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes. I hope to identify specific mechanisms through which social media impacts psychological well-being and to evaluate existing evidence for causality versus correlation. Ultimately, I intend to develop a well-supported argumentative stance that can inform recommendations for healthier social media habits and policies.
To qualify as a debatable, plausible, and consequential topic, my focus on social media’s effects on mental health meets the criteria. It is debatable because there are opposing viewpoints: some argue that social media fosters community and emotional support, while others contend it exacerbates mental health problems. It is plausible because numerous studies and reports demonstrate measurable psychological effects associated with social media use. It is consequential because mental health issues have significant personal and societal costs, including impacts on productivity, healthcare systems, and overall societal well-being. Common opposing arguments highlight that social media can be a platform for positive social interactions and activism, which I will address to balance my analysis.
The research question I propose to explore is: How does social media use influence mental health among young adults? This question will guide my research efforts and help narrow the focus of my argumentative paper. It allows for examining both the potential harms and benefits of social media, providing a comprehensive understanding of its role in mental health. This inquiry is essential for developing balanced, evidence-based conclusions and recommendations for individuals and policymakers alike.
References
Andreassen, C. S., et al. (2017). The association between addictive use of social media, cyberbullying, and depression. *Computers in Human Behavior*, 66, 3–11.
Keles, B., McCrae, N., & Grealish, A. (2020). A systematic review: The influence of social media on depression, anxiety, and psychological distress in adolescents. *International Journal of Adolescence and Youth*, 25(1), 79–93.
Twenge, J. M., et al. (2018). Increases in depressive symptoms, suicide-related outcomes, and internet and smartphone use among U.S. adolescents after 2010. *Journal of Abnormal Psychology*, 127(2), 262–272.
Pantic, I. (2014). Online social networking and mental health. *Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking*, 17(10), 652–657.
Orben, A., et al. (2019). Social media's effects on adolescent well-being: A systematic review. *Psychological Medicine*, 49(15), 2630–2644.
Smith, A., & Anderson, M. (2018). Social media use in 2018. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2018/03/01/social-media-use-in-2018/
Seabrook, E. M., et al. (2016). Social network site use and depression among young adults: A meta-analysis. *Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking*, 19(4), 251–258.
Huang, C. (2017). Time spent on social network sites and psychological health problems: A meta-analysis. *Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking*, 20(6), 346–354.
Brown, J. D., & Hamera, J. (2019). Social media and mental health: Examining the impact on adolescents. *Journal of Youth and Adolescence*, 48, 2187–2201.
Kuss, D. J., & Griffiths, M. D. (2017). Social networking sites and addiction: Ten lessons learned. *International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health*, 14(3), 311.