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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Discuss the impact of social media on selfesteem

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1713359733

Task 2 Topic: Discuss the impact of social media on self-esteem

Model Essay Question:
To what extent does social media have a positive or negative effect on an individual's self-esteem? Explain your answer with relevant reasons and examples.

Model Answer:
Social media has become an integral part of modern life, providing a platform for communication, entertainment, and self-expression. However, the impact of social media on self-esteem is complex, as it can have both positive and negative effects depending on how individuals use it. In this essay, I will discuss the ways in which social media can positively and negatively affect an individual's self-esteem, with a focus on the potential benefits and drawbacks of various aspects of social media use.

On one hand, social media has the potential to boost self-esteem by allowing individuals to connect with others who share their interests, values, or experiences. Through these connections, people can form supportive communities that provide encouragement, advice, and empathy. For example, online support groups for those struggling with mental health issues can offer valuable emotional support and practical tips for managing challenges. Additionally, social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube have given rise to influential figures who use their public profiles to promote body positivity, self-acceptance, and the importance of mental well-being.

On the other hand, social media can also negatively impact self-esteem by fostering a culture of comparison and competition. The carefully curated images and posts shared on platforms like Instagram can create an illusion of perfection that may lead individuals to feel inadequate or unworthy in comparison. This phenomenon, known as "Facebook envy" or "Instagram anxiety," has been linked to feelings of low self-esteem, depression, and social isolation. Moreover, the prevalence of cyberbullying and online harassment can also contribute to a decline in self-worth among users, particularly among young people who are more vulnerable to such attacks.

In conclusion, social media's impact on self-esteem is multifaceted and depends largely on how individuals engage with it. While social media platforms can provide valuable support networks and opportunities for personal growth, they can also foster unhealthy comparisons and contribute to feelings of inadequacy. To maximize the benefits of social media while minimizing its potential harm, users should be encouraged to engage critically and thoughtfully with online content, seek out positive influences, and prioritize their own well-being over the need for validation from others.

Score according to IELTS scoring standards:

- Task Response: 9 (The candidate has fully addressed all parts of the question and provided a detailed response)
- Coherence and Cohesion: 8 (The essay is well organized, with clear topic sentences and smooth transitions between paragraphs)
- Lexical Resource: 7.5 (The vocabulary is varied, accurate, and appropriate; the candidate uses synonyms effectively)
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy: 7.5 (There are few grammatical errors, and the grammar contributes to the clarity of expression)
- Presentation of Writing: 8 (The handwriting is clear and neat, and the essay is well structured with appropriate paragraphing)

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